How to Gimkit Host a Live Game
Apr 17, 2025 • 3 min read
If you want to bring energy into your classroom, try using the Gimkit host feature to run a live game. It helps review topics in a fun, interactive way. Here’s a fresh, easy-to-follow manual on how to set up and run a live session.
If you want to bring energy into your classroom, try using the Gimkit host feature to run a live game. It helps review topics in a fun, interactive way. Here’s a fresh, easy-to-follow manual on how to set up and run a live session.
Getting Started with Hosting a Game
To begin, you’ll first need to:
- Choose the kit you want to use
- Pick a game style
- Set your game’s settings
- Share the access code or join the link
- Launch the game
You can host any public kit. However, only the kits you own will provide you with post-game reports.
Launching the Game
To begin, select the green Play Live option. This can be found:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Dashboard | Click the green button next to any kit you own |
| Inside Kit | Use the Play Live button on the right panel |
Choosing a Game Style
A new screen appears once you click Play Live, allowing you to pick a style for your game.
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Browse Styles | Scroll through the available choices |
| View Info | Click “Learn More” under any style for extra details |
| Make a Choice | The selected style will have a yellow outline |
Click the Continue button in the top-right corner to move forward.
Customizing Your Game Settings
This step allows you to fine-tune how the game will run. You’ll be able to:
- Choose if you want to enable students to join after the game starts
- Decide if you want to use the nickname tool
- Set the goals for when the game should end
- Link it with classes if needed
These options may vary depending on the style of the game you selected.
Once you're done adjusting, hit Continue again.
Waiting Room Before the Game Starts
After continuing, a new tab shows your game’s waiting area. Here, you’ll find:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Game Code | Share this code with students |
| QR Option | Hover over the code to show a QR code |
| 2D Mode Characters | See your character appear and others joining |
| Spectator/Player Toggle | Switch your role in the game |
How Players Can Join
There are multiple ways for students to get in:
- Go to gimkit.com/join and enter the code manually
- Click the game link (clicking the code copies it)
- Scan the QR code (displayed on hover)
If you're using connected classes, students can join immediately through their dashboard.
Starting the Game
To begin the game:
| Mode | Where to Click Start |
|---|---|
| 2D Game | Bottom center |
| Other Modes | Upper right |
Once you click Start Game, you’ll enter the game world. Depending on the game style, you’ll see a map (2D) or a scoreboard (non-2D).
Game Controls and Ending the Game
A panel on the top-right gives you controls like:
- Music and sound settings
- Viewing current players
- Displaying the scoreboard
- Managing gameplay if you’re also participating
You can end the game anytime by pressing the End Game button. If not ended early, the session closes when the preset goal (like a time limit) is reached.
And there you have it — you're ready to Gimkit host a live session and create a fun, educational experience for your classroom.