Rock Paper Scissors: Lizard Spock
Rock–Paper–Scissors–Lizard–Spock (RPSLS) is a five-throw variant of classic RPS. It’s popular in casual play for its playful logic and added balance, but it’s not permitted in sanctioned tournaments, where only Rock, Paper, and Scissors are legal.
Hand Gestures
- Rock: Closed fist.
- Paper: Flat, open hand.
- Scissors: Index and middle fingers extended in a “V.”
- Lizard: “Sock puppet” shape: fingers together pointing forward with thumb beneath.
- Spock: “Live long and prosper”: palm vertical, split between middle and ring fingers.
Tournament Legality
In regulated events, only Rock, Paper, and Scissors are recognized. Using Lizard or Spock can result in a rewthrow, point loss, or disqualification. RPSLS is fine for friendly games if everyone agrees beforehand.
Original RPS Recap
- Rock crushes Scissors.
- Scissors cut Paper.
- Paper covers Rock.
This “triangle” gives each throw one win and one loss.
Why RPSLS Feels More Complex
Adding two throws expands the triangle into a five-node loop. Each gesture now defeats two and loses to two, which can feel richer and slightly harder to memorize than classic RPS.
Five-Throw Relationships
- Rock crushes Scissors • crushes Lizard • loses to Paper • loses to Spock.
- Paper covers Rock • disproves Spock • loses to Scissors • loses to Lizard.
- Scissors cut Paper • decapitate Lizard • lose to Rock • lose to Spock.
- Lizard eats Paper • poisons Spock • loses to Rock • loses to Scissors.
- Spock smashes Scissors • vaporizes Rock • loses to Paper • loses to Lizard.
Play Tips for Casual RPSLS
- Agree on cadence (e.g., “Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot”) and legal shapes before starting.
- Keep hands visible and throws clear to avoid disputes.
- If someone forgets and uses classic RPS only, pause and realign on the five-throw set.