[For Kids] Fun Either Way: A Collection of Rock-Paper-Scissors Game Ideas
Rock-paper-scissors is often used to decide order or winners, but this time we’re introducing fun game ideas that use rock-paper-scissors.
Not only “win or lose” matches, but also creative twists on the game itself, plus ideas that get you thinking and moving—like running or solving problems using rock-paper-scissors—so there’s something for everyone.
We’re also featuring nostalgic rock-paper-scissors games from the past!
Since rock-paper-scissors is a game both adults and children can enjoy together, we encourage adults to join in too!
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[For Kids] Fun Whether You Win or Lose! Rock-Paper-Scissors Game Ideas (1–10)
Rock-paper-scissors tail tag
A game that combines two popular activities! Here’s an idea for Rock-Paper-Scissors Tail Tag.
First, set up a home base, then go about 20 meters away and play rock-paper-scissors.
The winner runs back to the base, and the loser tries to grab the winner’s tail before they reach it.
Once everyone gets used to playing one-on-one, switching to team matches can make it even more exciting.
Another fun part of this game is planning strategies with friends or teachers and thinking about how to win as you play.
Give it a try!
Rock-Paper-Scissors Train Game
Let me introduce the Rock-Paper-Scissors Train game.
Move around the room pretending to be a freight train to the music of a freight train.
When the music stops, play rock-paper-scissors with a friend.
The person who loses places their hands on the winner’s shoulders, boards the same train, and sets off together.
Repeat this process to add more friends to your freight train.
When everyone is riding on the same train and departs together at the end, the game is complete.
Try speeding up or slowing down the music to match the children’s pace and have fun!
Don Janken
A game everyone can enjoy, from kids to adults! Here’s an idea for “Don Janken.” Split into two teams; the team that reaches the opponent’s territory first wins.
When you do rock-paper-scissors, the chant is “Don janken pon!” This idea requires almost no preparation and works great with large groups—that’s the key recommendation.
However, because players can get too fixated on winning, disputes may arise near the territory line, so it’s best for adults to make the final call on wins and losses.
Give it a try!
[For Kids] Fun Whether You Win or Lose! A Collection of Rock-Paper-Scissors Game Ideas (11–20)
Aiko, then go!
Let’s enjoy a reflex-based game! Here’s an idea for Aikode-Don.
This is a one-on-one game where you face each other and start in a seiza (kneeling) position.
With rock-paper-scissors, people usually focus on winning or losing, but in this game the key moment is when it’s a tie! The instant you both throw the same hand (a tie), try to stand up faster than your opponent! Once you get used to the game, try changing the sitting style to gym sit (hugging knees) or long sit with legs extended.
You can also increase the difficulty by adding a rule that you must stand up without using your hands!
Newspaper Rock-Paper-Scissors
Defend your territory! Here’s an idea for a newspaper rock-paper-scissors game.
It’s simple yet tense! Each participant stands on a sheet of newspaper, and if you lose a round of rock-paper-scissors, you fold your newspaper.
As the paper gets smaller, it becomes harder to keep your balance, adding to the excitement.
As the game goes on, players drop out, so you’ll need caution and a competitive edge to be the last one standing! It’s a fun idea you can enjoy with friends and family while getting everyone pumped up.
Gyoza Rock-Paper-Scissors
Let’s each throw out something different with rock-paper-scissors! Here’s an idea for Gyoza Janken.
In this game, rock is meat, scissors are chives, and paper is wrappers.
At the cue “Let’s make gyoza!”, everyone shows rock, scissors, or paper.
If all three are different, the gyoza is complete—shout “Let’s eat!” with energy! If everyone shows the same thing, shout “There’s only ◯◯!” If there are only two types shown, shout “We’re missing ◯◯!” It’s a unique game for groups of three!
Sukiyaki Rock-Paper-Scissors Game
Here’s a Sukiyaki Rock-Paper-Scissors game that everyone—from kids to adults—can enjoy.
Prepare cards with pictures of sukiyaki.
Divide participants into small family groups and assign roles like father, mother, and child.
The game leader and each family’s representative play rock-paper-scissors; the winner draws a sukiyaki ingredient card.
The first family to collect all the sukiyaki ingredients wins.
You can make the game even more exciting by adding more ingredients to the sukiyaki!