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How to screencast and airplay boardgames on your TV

Board Streamer

— 3 min read
How to screencast and airplay boardgames on your TV
Photo by Jorge Ramirez / Unsplash

Board games have long been a source of entertainment, fostering social interaction and strategic thinking. In recent years, the digital transformation of board games has extended their reach and accessibility. One intriguing development is the ability to screencast and AirPlay board games onto your TV, enhancing the gaming experience by providing a larger and more immersive display. 

This guide will walk you through the process of screencasting and AirPlaying board games from your mobile device or computer to your TV.

Understanding Screencasting and AirPlay

Screencasting involves wirelessly transmitting the display of your device (such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer) to a TV or other large screen. Common protocols for screencasting include Google Cast (used by Chromecast), Miracast, and AirPlay (specific to Apple devices).

AirPlay is a proprietary protocol developed by Apple that allows wireless streaming between devices. It is primarily used with iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs.

a cell phone sitting on top of a table
Photo by Jakub Żerdzicki / Unsplash

Preparing Your Device

Discover how to prepare your device for screencasting and AirPlay for seamless streaming to your TV.

For Screencasting

  • TV with Casting Support: Ensure your TV has built-in casting support or is connected to a casting device like Google Chromecast.
  • Casting Device: If your TV does not support casting natively, you can use devices such as Chromecast, Roku, or Amazon Fire Stick.
  • Wi-Fi Network: Connect both your mobile device/computer and your TV/casting device to the same Wi-Fi network.

For AirPlay

  • Apple TV: Connect your Apple TV to your TV.
  • Compatible Apple Devices: Ensure you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that supports AirPlay.
  • Wi-Fi Network: Both the Apple device and the Apple TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network.

Setting Up for Screencasting

Using Google Chromecast

1. Connect Chromecast: Plug the Chromecast into your TV's HDMI port and power it on.

2. Set Up Chromecast: Use the Google Home app on your mobile device to set up the Chromecast and connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

3. Cast from Your Device: Open the board game app on your device. Tap the Cast icon (usually found in the upper-right corner of the screen) and select your Chromecast device. The game will appear on your TV screen.

Using Roku or Amazon Fire Stick:

1. Connect and Set Up: Plug in your Roku or Fire Stick and connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

2. Enable Casting: For Roku, go to Settings > System > Screen mirroring and select Prompt or Always allow. For Fire Stick, enable Display Mirroring in the settings.

3. Cast from Your Device: Follow similar steps as with Chromecast to cast your board game app to your TV.

Setting Up for AirPlay

1. Connect Apple TV: Ensure your Apple TV is connected to your TV and powered on.

2. Enable AirPlay: On the Apple TV, go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit and turn on AirPlay.

3. AirPlay from Your Device: On your iPhone or iPad, open the Control Center by swiping down from the upper-right corner (or up from the bottom on older models). Tap Screen Mirroring, then select your Apple TV. Open your board game app, and it will be mirrored on your TV screen.

black laptop computer turned on displaying icons
Photo by Daniel Romero / Unsplash

How to Enhance Your Gaming Experience? 

Enhancing your game experience involves several strategies to make gameplay more immersive and enjoyable. Using high-quality peripherals, such as Bluetooth game controllers, offers precise control and an authentic feel. 

Optimizing your Wi-Fi connection by positioning your router closer or using an extender can minimize lag and ensure smooth gameplay. Incorporating high-definition audio systems enhances the atmosphere, making sound effects and music more engaging. 

Additionally, inviting friends and family to join, whether locally or online, adds a social dimension, transforming a solitary activity into a shared adventure. By investing in these enhancements, you can significantly elevate your gaming sessions.

Screencasting and AirPlaying board games onto your TV can transform your gaming sessions, making them more dynamic and enjoyable. By following these steps, you can easily set up and enhance your board game experience, bringing the fun of tabletop gaming to the big screen. 

Whether you're a casual gamer or a board game enthusiast, this technology opens up new possibilities for interactive and social entertainment.

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