Facebook describes Instant Games in Messenger as a new ‘gaming tab’ inside the app that allows you to challenge your friends and family at a number of games.

It’s simple enough to play if you follow the steps below, making sure you’ve updated to the latest version in your app store first. See also: How to send money on Facebook Messenger.

How to play games on Facebook Messenger

•    Open or start a conversation (groups included) •    Tap on the game controller icon •    Choose the game you want to play

Facebook Messenger games list

With over 1.2bn games of the basketball game played, launching Instant Games is the next logical step. The feature is rolling out in 30 countries on iOS 8+ devices and Android 5+. Features include score leader boards in-context chat, and group thread conversations. Read: How to send a Facebook message without Facebook Messenger.

If you’re looking for a Facebook Messenger games list then check out the image below which shows the 17 launch titles from partners such as King, Konami and Bandai Namco. Highlights on the games list include the likes Space Invaders, Puzzle Bobble, Words with Friends: Frenzy and Pac-Man.

Read next: Best board games

Tech Advisor’s Reviews Editor, Chris has been reviewing all kinds of tech for over 10 years and specialises in audio. He also covers a range of topics including home entertainment, phones, laptops, tablets and more.