Objective
The objective of Scattergories is to score points by uniquely naming objects within a set of categories, given an initial letter, and avoiding duplicate answers with other players.
Components
- Scattergories Categories List: A list containing various categories such as "Boy's Names," "Food," or "Cities."
- Alphabet Die: A die with letters instead of numbers (Standard games might use an app or a spinner)
- Paper and Pencil for each player.
- Timer: A sand timer or any other time-measuring device.
Gameplay
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Setup: Each player gets a sheet of paper and a pencil. All players must be able to view the Scattergories categories list.
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Choosing a Letter: One player rolls the alphabet die (or spins the spinner). The selected letter will be the starting letter for that round.
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Finding Answers: After the letter is chosen, the timer starts. Players have a limited time (usually 2-3 minutes) to write down answers beginning with the chosen letter that fit the listed categories.
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Scoring:
- When the time is up, players take turns reading their answers aloud.
- Unique answers that no other player wrote earn 1 point each.
- If two or more players gave the same answer, they earn 0 points for that category.
- Disputed or creative answers can be democratically decided if they fit the category.
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Number of Rounds: The game can be played over several rounds as agreed. Players may use a different letter each round.
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Winner: The player with the most points after the agreed number of rounds wins the game.
Strategies
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Pre-Think: Consider unusual words you might use for certain letters in advance to stand out from standard answers.
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Concentration: If you can't fill out all categories during a round, focus on the ones you're most likely to score on.
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Controversial Answers: Sometimes thinking outside the box might earn you points through a group decision on acceptance. Discuss potential acceptance with fellow players.
Scattergories promotes creative thinking and knowledge, challenging players to come up with unusual terms to avoid matching others’ answers.
