Gimkit has become a popular classroom learning platform because it turns quizzes and review activities into interactive games. However, if you are new to Gimkit, you may see two different actions: hosting a game and joining a game. Although they are connected, they serve completely different purposes.
The simple way to understand it is this: the host creates and controls the live game, while players join the game that the host has already created. Teachers generally host games, while students usually join them using a game code, QR code, or join link.
Understanding the difference can make it much easier to start a classroom session without confusion. In this guide, we will explain how hosting works, how students join, what each option is used for, and which one you should choose depending on your role.
What Is a Gimkit Host Game?
A Gimkit host game is a live session created and controlled by the person running the activity. In most classroom situations, that person is the teacher.
To host a live game, the host selects a kit, chooses a game mode, adjusts the available settings, and then starts the lobby. Gimkit provides a game code and other joining options that can be shared with students.
The host has considerably more control than an ordinary player. Depending on the game mode and settings, the host can manage options such as the game goal, whether students can join late, classes, nickname settings, and other gameplay choices.
For example, a teacher might prepare a science quiz and select a suitable live game mode. After configuring the game, the teacher displays the game code on a classroom screen. Students then use that code to enter the session.
Who Usually Hosts a Gimkit Game?
Teachers and educators are the most common hosts because they typically create the kits and organize classroom activities.
Gimkit’s current help documentation says an account is required to create kits and host games, while student accounts are optional.
A host generally needs to:
- Select a kit.
- Choose a game mode.
- Configure the game options.
- Start the lobby.
- Share the game code, QR code, or join link.
- Wait for players to enter.
- Start and manage the game.
The exact options can vary depending on the selected game mode.
What Does Join Game Mean in Gimkit?
Join Game is designed for people who want to participate in a live Gimkit session that someone else has already hosted.
For example, if a teacher starts a game, students do not need to create another game. Instead, they simply use the information provided by the teacher to enter the existing session.
Students can generally use a game code, QR code, or join link. Gimkit’s official instructions direct students without Classes to visit gimkit.com/join and enter the code displayed by the teacher.
After entering the game, students may need to enter their name or approve a nickname, depending on the settings selected by the host.
Who Usually Joins a Gimkit Game?
Students are the most common players, but anyone invited to a live session can potentially participate.
For example:
Teacher: Creates and hosts the game
Students: Join using the game code
Teacher: Starts the game
Students: Answer questions and play
This creates a simple system where one person manages the activity and everyone else participates.
Gimkit Host Game vs Join Game: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Host Game | Join Game |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Create and manage a live game | Participate in an existing game |
| Usually used by | Teacher/host | Students/players |
| Selects kit | Yes | No |
| Selects game mode | Yes | No |
| Changes game settings | Yes | No |
| Receives game code | Yes | Uses the code |
| Can start the game | Yes | No |
| Can manage players | Yes | No |
| Can use QR code | Displays it | Scans it |
| Needs to create the game | Yes | No |
| Controls the session | Yes | No |
The most important difference is control. Hosting is about setting up and managing the experience, while joining is about entering and participating in that experience.
How to Host a Gimkit Game
Hosting a game is relatively straightforward.
Step 1: Choose Your Kit
Start from your Gimkit dashboard and select the kit you want to use. Gimkit’s current hosting instructions indicate that you can click Play Live next to a kit or access the same option from within a kit.
Your kit contains the questions students will encounter during the activity.
Step 2: Select a Game Mode
After selecting the kit, Gimkit opens its Mode Picker. Here, the host can choose the game mode that best fits the class or activity.
Different modes can provide different gameplay experiences, so it is worth checking the mode’s description before starting.
Step 3: Configure the Game
Next, you can adjust the available game settings.
Depending on the selected mode, settings can include game goals, Classes, nickname options, late joining, and mode-specific controls.
For a normal classroom review, keep the settings simple if your students are new to Gimkit.
Step 4: Share the Game Code
After setup, a lobby opens with your game code.
Students can enter the code at Gimkit’s join page. You can also display a QR code or share a direct join link.
Step 5: Check the Lobby
Before starting, look at the players who have joined.
This is a useful time to check names and make sure the expected students are present. In some game modes, the host can also remove inappropriate names or unwanted players.
Step 6: Start the Game
Once everyone is ready, click Start Game.
At this point, the students move from the lobby into the actual game, and the host can use the available controls to manage the session.
How to Join a Gimkit Game
Joining is even simpler.
Step 1: Get the Game Code
Ask your teacher or host for the current game code. You may also receive a QR code or direct join link.
Step 2: Open the Join Page
If you are joining without a Class, go to gimkit.com/join and enter the code shown by the host.
Step 3: Enter Your Name
Follow the instructions on screen to enter your name or approve the nickname provided by the host’s settings.
Step 4: Wait in the Lobby
After joining, wait for the host to start the game.
You do not need to create another kit or select a game mode. Those decisions have already been made by the host.
What Can the Host Control?
The host has several tools that players do not normally have.
For example, hosts can view players, display leaderboards, control game audio, and end a game early. Some 2D game modes also allow the host to spectate players or join as a player, depending on the mode.
Hosts can also control whether students are allowed to join after the game has started. Live games currently allow late joining by default, although the host can change this option during setup.
This is useful when a student arrives late, loses their connection, or needs to reconnect.
Can a Student Host a Gimkit Game?
The ability to host depends on the user’s account and role.
Gimkit currently states that an account is required to create kits and host games, while student accounts are optional.
Therefore, simply being able to access Gimkit does not mean every student should assume they are responsible for hosting a classroom game. In a normal classroom setup, the educator prepares the activity and students join it.
If you are a student and your teacher has asked you to run a game, follow the account and classroom instructions provided by your teacher.
Common Mistakes When Using Host and Join
One common mistake is trying to use the join option when you are supposed to create the game.
For example, if you are the teacher and want to create a new classroom activity, entering another teacher’s game code will not give you control of that session.
Another mistake is sharing an old game code. Live-game codes are associated with the current session, so students should use the code shown by the host for the game they are supposed to enter.
Students may also accidentally visit the wrong page or enter the code incorrectly. If this happens, carefully check the code displayed on the host’s screen.
Tips for a Smooth Gimkit Session
Keep the Game Code Visible
If many students are joining at once, display the code clearly on a projector or classroom screen.
Use the QR Code
Gimkit provides a QR code option that can make joining faster. The host can display the QR code by hovering over the game code.
Test Before Class
If you are hosting for the first time, open the game before your lesson starts. Check your kit, game mode, settings, and internet connection.
Check Player Names
Take a moment to look through the lobby before starting. This can help prevent confusion and identify unwanted participants.
Choose Settings Carefully
Don’t change settings simply because they are available. Think about the age of your students, lesson objective, available time, and type of activity.
Have a Backup Plan
Internet problems can affect any online classroom activity. Keep a copy of your questions or another short review activity available in case the connection fails.
Which One Should You Use?
The answer depends on what you want to do.
If you are creating and managing a classroom game, choose the host route.
If your teacher has already created the game and given you a code, QR code, or link, choose the join route.
Think of it like a classroom presentation. The teacher controls the presentation, while students watch and interact with it. Similarly, the Gimkit host controls the live session, while players join and participate.
Final Thoughts
The difference between hosting and joining a Gimkit game is actually quite simple. Hosting means creating, configuring, starting, and managing the live activity. Joining means entering someone else’s live activity and playing along.
Teachers usually host because they need control over the kit, game mode, settings, and players. Students generally join using a code, QR code, or direct link provided by the host. Gimkit’s official documentation confirms that the host sets up the live game and shares the joining information with students.
Once you understand this difference, getting into a Gimkit classroom session becomes much easier. Whether you’re preparing a review activity or simply trying to join one, knowing which option to choose can save time and prevent unnecessary confusion.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Gimkit Host and Join?
The host creates and controls the live game, while the person using Join enters an existing game. The host selects the kit, game mode, and settings, while players participate in the activity.
2. Do students need a Gimkit account to join a game?
Students can join live games without necessarily having a Gimkit account. When joining without Classes, they can use the game code at Gimkit’s join page.
3. Where do I enter a Gimkit game code?
Students can go to Gimkit’s join page and enter the game code displayed by the host. The host may also provide a QR code or direct join link.
4. Can a Gimkit host remove a player?
Yes. Gimkit provides hosts with tools for managing players, including the ability to remove players from live games.
5. Can students join after a Gimkit game starts?
Yes, when the host has allowed late joining. Gimkit says live games allow students to join late by default, but the host can turn this option off during game setup.
6. Can a host play the Gimkit game too?
In 2D game modes, the host can have the option to join as either a player or spectator. What is available depends on the game mode.
7. Do I need an account to host a Gimkit game?
Yes. Gimkit’s current account documentation says an account is required to create kits and host games. Student accounts, however, are optional.
