More Complicated and Less Fun.

First off we would like to say that we do not authorize the use of Lizard or Spock in any WRPSA tournament play. It is also easier to remember why Paper beats Rock then the rules for Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock.

This offset of Rock Paper Scissors became famous overnight from the TV show The Big Bang Theory. In 8th episode of the 2nd season of the wildly popular TV Show one of the main characters and probably the most entertaining character Sheldon introduced it to the world effortlessly to the game of Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock. Sheldon added two new gestures to the game creating more layers of complexity. This game was actually created by Sam Kass, along with Karen Bryla. Kass revealed that the producers did not seek prior formal permission to use the game in the show. Although Sheldon gives credit to Kass by mentioning him as the creator, on the show. We here are at the World Rock Paper Scissors Association suggest sticking to simple RPS, but if you must, read on.

What is Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock?

RPSLS is just like Rock Paper Scissors, each player has to choose any one variable Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard or Spock. Each of the players keep their selection secret while priming. The players then reveal their choice on the 4th prime, One Two Three Shoot. The priming phase where the players will use their arms to regulate speed is used to create a sense of timing between the two competitors creating a more accurate competition. Players often use a rock gesture during the priming phase of the competition, but any gesture is permitted as long as they are not obscene. During tournament play, only the rock symbol is permitted. If there is a tie on a throw, the players simply replay the point. In competitive play, players compete in a best 3 of 5 although in everyday play a one-shot winner takes all is permitted.

What are the Rules of Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock?

What are the Gestures for Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock?

ROCK

PAPER

SCISSORS

LIZARD

SPOCK

Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock in the Big Bang Theory

In the video below you will see Sheldon explain Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock. In the Big Bang Theory Raj suggests the old standby of RPS to settle a dispute, but Sheldon declines. Explaining that people who know each other will tie 75-80% of the time, instead he suggests RPSLS. Of course, Sheldon and Raj both pick Spock. This round of RPSLS does not finish due to a knock at the door.

RPSLS is then played another time later in the episode when the characters Sheldon, Raj and Howard try to decide on who gets the last dumpling. Once again they are unable to settle their dispute with RPSLS.

Does this affect the future of Rock Paper Scissors?

Sheldon claimed that people that know each other will tie 75-80% of the time. A simple solution to this close your eyes. The mirror neurons in your eyes can cause you to copy your opponents move in the split second before a throw. Reseach shows that blindfolded players win slightly more than competitors with the sight ‘advantage’. There is a major problem with RPSLS and that is loyalty bias. As demonstrated in the show all the characters that enjoyed the game of RPSLS enjoyed the use of the ‘Spock’ gesture. This created a stalemate 100% of the time.

We want to know if you prefer the traditional game of Rock Paper Scissors or like the more complex game of Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock? The only positive we have seen from this variation is it allows a larger group for a Rock Paper Scissors Costume.