Do you know these kinds of tag? The rules and how to play various versions of tag
Did you know that the classic children’s game “tag” actually has many different ways to play? By tweaking the rules a bit—like with Color Tag, Freeze Tag, or Shadow-Stepping Tag—you can enjoy a fresh twist on the usual game.
In this article, we’ll introduce a variety of tag games that kids can’t get enough of, along with their rules and how to play.
It’s packed with versions you can enjoy in the schoolyard, at the park, or even indoors! Not just for kids—adults can have fun too! Why not try these lively tag games together and get the whole group excited?
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Do you know these kinds of tag? Rules and how to play various tag games (11–20)
Banana Tag
It’s a game of tag with a silly rule: if the tagger touches you, you turn into a banana.
If you’re tagged, act like a banana and raise both hands.
A child who has turned into a banana can be revived if another child pretends to peel their banana while saying “muki, muki” (peel, peel).
Tail Tag
It’s a game where you split into several teams—two or more—and try to grab the tails attached to each other’s backs.
If there are two teams, you tuck red-and-white caps into your pants; for more teams, you use headbands or crepe tape and color-code them.
Everyone except yourself is an opponent, and it’s also fun to play with the rule that the person who grabs the most tails wins.
Tag, child-catching demon (a variant of tag called “Kotorooni”/“Kotoro-oni”).
It’s a game played with an “it” (oni) and a line of children.
In regular tag, you run away so you don’t get caught by the tagger, right? In Kotorogui, the oni targets the child at the end of a single-file line.
The oni moves to try to tag the last child with a ball.
The child at the front of the line spreads their arms to guard the last child from the oni.
It’s surprisingly strenuous, making it perfect for kids who want to be active.
As the line gets longer, it becomes easier for the oni to exploit gaps in the guard.
Sitting tag
How about trying a seated game of tag that you can play indoors? First, choose who’s “it,” and have everyone—including the tagger—start in a seated position.
It’s best if people are spaced a little apart.
The rule is that everyone must keep their bottoms on the floor even while moving.
Moving while your bottom stays on the floor is tricky and slows you down more than you’d think—that frustrating feeling is what makes it so fun.
Since you can’t move very far, you can enjoy it in a small space.
Give it a try!
In conclusion
We introduced different types of tag games that everyone can play and explained their rules. Tag is simple, but having everyone run around and move their bodies makes it perfect for developing children’s athletic ability and teamwork. You might also enjoy playing with the kids while customizing the rules even further. Let’s share the many fun ways to enjoy tag with everyone!