DIY Alias Game
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easy |  |
2-20 |  |
X |
Many of you have probably heard of a simple yet highly entertaining word association board game called "Alias" (also known by other names such as "Say Otherwise," "Hat," "Panic"). The game is truly fantastic, but don't rush to buy it in a store, especially considering the not-so-small prices for Alias. The Red Monkey team will guide you on how to play this game for free.
We have prepared the necessary materials to help you organize the game on your own.
How to play Alias Game
The essence of the game is to explain as many words as possible to your team members using synonyms, antonyms, and associations within a limited time.
The goal is to guess as many words as possible in 1 minute.
✖ What is not allowed:
- You cannot use words with the same root
- Pointing at objects with your finger is also prohibited.
- Using a word in a different language is not allowed.
Props
- Word cards (you can download all card options at the bottom of the page)
- Timer (you can use a timer on your phone, smartwatch, etc., or use a sand timer)
Gameplay and Rules
Our version of the game is simplified, but believe us, it doesn't fall short in terms of positive emotions and a fun atmosphere compared to the classic Alias version.
1. Print out the word cards. Cut them out (1 word per mini-card). This is the most challenging preparation step and you're done!)
2. Put the cards in a hat and shuffle them (you can use a bag, pouch, etc.).
3. Divide into teams, with at least 2 people per team. You can draw lots or divide by gender. For instance, we ended up with teams A and B.
4. Use "rock-paper-scissors" to determine which team starts the game. Let's say Team A goes first.
5. The first player from Team A steps onto the "battlefield." In front of them is a hat containing the cards. The host or members of Team B start a timer for exactly 1 minute, and the game begins.
The player from Team A randomly selects a card with a word from the hat and tries to explain the essence of the chosen word to their team members using associations and guiding questions. Each card with a guessed word is taken by Team A as a trophy. If Player A cannot explain the word on the card, the card is given to the opposing team. If the player starts explaining a word but time runs out, the team has the right to finish the round and guess the last word without the timer. After the first round, all trophy cards go to Team A's score.
1 card = 1 point
6. The same process is repeated by the first player from Team B, explaining words to their team.
7. When all players have taken turns - tally up the points. The team with the most points (cards) is the winner.
You decide how many rounds to play until you get tired of it)
But you can make our Alias game more challenging and diverse. If the words for the players seem too easy, use cards with difficult words for Alias. Or mix simple and difficult words from the start for added variety.
forfeits for the Alias Game
The game can be made more challenging with forfeits. You can play the first round in a simple mode to warm up, and then diversify the second round with additional tasks. Each player is offered a forfeit card, which contains an additional condition for the Alias game. For example, explain the words while angry or while squatting.
With forfeits, the game becomes even funnier and more hilarious!
