Objective
The objective of Wattepusten is to blow a lightweight cotton ball across a table from one's side to the opponent's side. The game can be played as a competition or in teams, requiring skillful blowing and strategic positioning to outsmart opponents.
Game Materials
- A table without obstacles
- A lightweight cotton ball (alternatively, a small ping pong ball can be used)
- A clear marking of the table center (e.g., with tape)
- A starting line for each player or team from which to blow
Number of Players
- Minimum: 2 players
- Maximum: Unlimited, but best in teams of 2-4 players
Setup
- Prepare the table and mark the table's center and starting lines on both sides.
- Place the cotton ball in the center of the table.
Basic Rules
- Game Start: Players or teams stand behind their respective starting lines.
- At the signal "Go," players attempt to blow the cotton ball towards the opponent's side of the table.
- Score Point: A point is scored when the cotton ball is successfully blown off the opponent's edge of the table without using hands or touching the ball outside the boundary line.
- Prohibited Actions: Hands should not be used to actively move the cotton ball. Only blowing is allowed.
- After each point is scored, the cotton ball is returned to the center of the table and the game resumes.
- The game ends after a predetermined number of points, typically 5, 10, or 15.
Advanced Rules & Strategies
- Team Strategies: Depending on the number of players in a team, one strategy may involve one player playing defensively, keeping the cotton ball away from their edge, while the other plays aggressively towards the opponent.
- Effectively Creating Wind Shadows: Players may create a consistent airflow by skillful blowing, making it difficult for the opponent to redirect the cotton ball.
The game promotes coordination and is particularly enjoyed by children, as it requires no special skills beyond the ability to blow in a coordinated manner.
