The History of Rock Paper Scissors
A Brief Description of the Game
Rock Paper Scissors is a simple yet strategic game usually played between two players. In informal settings, more than two players can join, often in elimination formats. Each player simultaneously throws one of three hand gestures:
- Rock: Closed fist, representing strength and solidity.
- Paper: Open flat hand, representing coverage or wrapping.
- Scissors: Index and middle fingers extended in a "V" shape, representing cutting.
The rules are straightforward: Rock crushes Scissors, Scissors cuts Paper, and Paper covers Rock. If both players throw the same move, the round is replayed until there is a clear winner.
How the Game is Played
Players count to three or chant "Rock, Paper, Scissors!" while swinging their hands. On the final count, both reveal their move. The winner is determined based on the interactions above.
Origins in Ancient China
The earliest recorded mention of Rock Paper Scissors comes from Wuzazu, a book written by Xie Zhaozhi during the Chinese Ming dynasty. He described the game, known as Shoushiling, dating back to the Han dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE). Another book, Note of Liuyanzhai by Li Rihua, also references this version.
Spread to Japan: Sansukumi-Ken
The game later appeared in Japan as sansukumi-ken, which translates to "three who are afraid of one another." In this format, A beats B, B beats C, and C beats A, mirroring the RPS logic. The Japanese version evolved from an earlier Chinese import called mushi-ken, which used:
- Thumb for Frog
- Little finger for Slug
- Index finger for Snake
The cycle was: Frog beats Slug, Slug beats Snake, Snake beats Frog.
Japanese Variations
Another Japanese version, kitsune-ken, featured three symbolic roles:
- Supernatural Fox (Kitsune)
- Village Head
- Hunter
Unlike modern RPS, kitsune-ken required gestures with both hands.
The Rise of Jan-Ken
In the 17th century, the Japanese developed jan-ken, a simplified format using Rock, Paper, and Scissors. This is the direct ancestor of the modern RPS game. By the 19th century, jan-ken had become the dominant version in Japan.
Global Spread and Modern Name
During the early 20th century, increased contact between Japan and the Western world helped spread the game globally. English-speaking countries adopted jan-ken directly, naming it Rock Paper Scissors. In some regions, "Paper" was replaced with "Cloth," though both used the same open-palm gesture.
Summary of Key Historical Points
- 206 BCE to 220 CE: Shoushiling recorded in China during the Han dynasty.
- Japan: Evolved into sansukumi-ken with frog, slug, and snake symbols.
- 17th Century: Jan-ken introduced with Rock, Paper, Scissors gestures.
- Early 20th Century: Spread globally, leading to the modern RPS game.
Why History Matters
Understanding the origins of Rock Paper Scissors provides context for its enduring appeal. From ancient strategy to modern competitive play, the game has evolved while staying true to its core principles of balance and simplicity.