Simon Says: A Game of Listening and Following Instructions
A fun and active game where players follow instructions only if they’re preceded by the phrase “Simon Says.”
Description:
Simon Says is a timeless game that tests players’ listening skills, memory, and ability to follow instructions. It’s a perfect game for all ages and can be enjoyed with just a few people or a large group.
Categories: Party Game, Children’s Game
How to Play:
- Number of Players: Minimum of 2 players (works best with small or large groups)
- What You’ll Need:
- Your Minds!: Enthusiastic players ready to follow (or not follow) instructions!
- Gameplay:
Choose a Simon:
- One player is chosen to be “Simon.” Simon will give instructions to the other players throughout the game.
Listen Carefully:
- Simon will give a series of instructions, some starting with the phrase “Simon Says” and some not.
Follow the Rule:
- Players must only follow instructions that are preceded by the phrase “Simon Says.”
- If an instruction is given without “Simon Says,” players should not perform the action.
Out for the Round:
- Any player who performs an action that is not preceded by “Simon Says” or forgets to do an action that is properly announced is out for that round.
- The game continues until there’s one player remaining, who becomes the winner of that round.
Winning Criteria:
The objective of Simon Says is to be the last player remaining in a round. Players are eliminated for performing actions that don’t start with “Simon Says” or failing to do actions properly announced with “Simon Says.” The last player standing after each round wins that round. You can play multiple rounds or set a time limit and the player with the most wins at the end is the overall winner.
Estimated Playtime:
A single round of Simon Says can last anywhere from a few minutes to much longer, depending on the following factors:
- Complexity of Instructions: Simpler instructions will lead to quicker rounds, while more complex instructions with multiple actions might take longer.
- Number of Players: With more players, there’s a higher chance of someone making a mistake, potentially extending the round.
- Length of Play: If playing multiple rounds or setting a time limit, the total playtime will vary accordingly.
Make it Your Own:
Advanced Simon: As the game progresses, Simon can get more creative with instructions, adding complexity and fun.
- For example, Simon could say “Simon Says touch your nose and then hop on one foot.”
- Players need to perform the actions in the correct order, only if the entire instruction begins with “Simon Says.”
Musical Simon: Combine Simon Says with music! Play some upbeat music. Simon gives instructions as long as the music is playing. When the music stops, players must freeze. Anyone who moves after the music stops is out. Continue playing music and giving instructions until there’s one winner.
A Timeless Classic for All Ages
Simon Says is a simple yet engaging game that provides endless fun for people of all ages. It’s a great way to test your listening skills, focus, and reflexes. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to follow (or not follow) the instructions of Simon for a fun and active time!
Similar Games:
- Kim’s Game: A memory game where players are shown a tray of objects for a short time and then asked to recall them after the tray is removed.
- Follow the Leader: One player is the leader and performs actions. Other players must mimic the leader’s actions in sequence.
- Red Light, Green Light: Players line up and try to reach the opposite side of the play area by moving forward when “green light” is called and stopping when “red light” is called.