Objective of the Game:

Counting-out games are simple, traditional games aimed at selecting someone to perform a specific task, such as being "it" in a game of tag. The selection process is entirely random, guided by chanting a standard counting rhyme.

Setup:

1. Participants: There is no fixed minimum or maximum number of participants; however, the group should consist of at least three people.
2. No further materials are required.

Rules and Gameplay:

1. Group Formation: Players form a circle or line up.
2. Begin the Rhyme: One player is chosen to say the rhyme. Typically, this selection is voluntary or by default the youngest.
3. Chanting the Rhyme: The chosen player begins with a known counting rhyme, moving from one player to the next as the rhyme is sung. Examples of rhymes include:
4. "Eeny, meeny, miny, moe, catch a tiger by the toe"
5. "Eenie, meenie, miney, mo, sitting on a bureau"
6. Selection of the Player: The player upon whom the last word of the rhyme falls is either out or selected for the task.
7. Repetition: Depending on the type of game, the process is repeated until one player remains or the "seeker" is found.

Strategic Nuances:

• No Influence: Players have no real influence over the outcome, as counting-out games are based on randomness.
• Rhyme Length: Some players attempt to use the rhythm or speed of the rhyme to influence the outcome, though this is rarely effective.

Counting-out games are ideal for playfully making decisions and often used by children to settle disputes or form teams.