Scattergories
Age Range
How Many Players
Rating
Play Time?
8+
2+
G
2-5 mins per round
This fast-paced game is perfect for anyone who loves word games and enjoys a little friendly competition.
With its simple rules and endless possibilities, Scattergories is a great way to spend an evening with friends or family. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, Scattergories is sure to keep you entertained for hours.
Variations
Personal categories:
While Scattergories comes with a set of pre-defined categories, you can always create your own unique set of categories. This allows you to tailor the game to the interests of your group, making it more engaging and enjoyable.
Add a timer twist:
To make the game more challenging and exciting, add a twist to the timer. For example, you can use an hourglass or set the timer for a shorter time than usual, which will force players to think and write faster.
Play in teams:
Playing in teams can add an element of teamwork and collaboration to the game. You can pair up players or divide the group into teams and award points based on the team's total unique answers.
Use unusual letters:
Instead of using common letters like A or B, try using less common letters like Q or Z. This will make the game more challenging and force players to come up with creative answers.
Make it a themed game:
Choose a specific theme for the game, such as movies or food, and base all the categories around that theme. This can add an extra level of fun and creativity to the game.
Add a prize:
Offer a prize for the winner or winning team. The prize could be something simple like a small trophy or a gift card to a local restaurant. This will motivate players to put in their best effort and make the game more fun for everyone.
GAME RULES
The game is played with 2 or more players.
Each player gets a sheet of paper with several columns and rows of empty boxes. At the top of each column is a letter of the alphabet.
Players roll a 26-sided die or select a letter from a designated source to determine the letter that will be used for that round.
A card with a list of categories is drawn or selected, and a timer is started for a predetermined amount of time (usually 2-3 minutes).
Players then have to come up with a word or phrase that fits each category and starts with the selected letter. For example, if the letter is "B" and the category is "Famous Authors," a player might write "Bronte" or "Bukowski."
Once time is up, players compare their answers. If two or more players have the same answer for a category, they both cross it out. Players get one point for each unique answer they come up with that matches the letter and the category.
After all the categories have been completed, players tally up their scores for that round.
The game is usually played over several rounds, with players rotating the letter used each time.
The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
There are some additional rules to keep the game fair and challenging, such as requiring answers to be spelled correctly and not allowing proper nouns or abbreviations.
GAME SETUP
Here's how to set up a game of Scattergories:
Gather Materials: You'll need a Scattergories game set, which typically includes category cards, answer pads, a 20-sided die, and a timer. You'll also need pens or pencils for each player.
Set Up Game: Divide players into teams of two or three people each. Each team will need an answer pad and a pen or pencil.
Choose Categories: Each round, one player rolls the 20-sided die to determine which letter of the alphabet the round will focus on. The other players draw a category card and read out the categories on the card. For example, if the letter is "C," the categories might be "things that are cold," "things that are found in a kitchen," or "words associated with winter."
Set the Timer: Set the timer for a predetermined amount of time, such as two minutes.
Start the Game: Once the letter and categories are chosen, players have to come up with a word or phrase that fits each category and starts with the chosen letter. For example, for the category "things that are cold," players might write "cherry popsicle" or "Canadian winter."
Compare Answers: Once the timer runs out, players compare their answers. If multiple teams have the same answer for a category, that answer is eliminated. For example, if multiple teams write "cherry popsicle" for the category "things that are cold," only one team gets credit for that answer.
Score Points: Teams get one point for each unique answer they come up with that matches the category and starts with the chosen letter.
Repeat Rounds: Repeat the above steps for a predetermined number of rounds, such as three or four. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Overall, setting up a game of Scattergories is relatively simple and can be done quickly, making it a great option for a fun and fast-paced party game
Tips, Ideas & More
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