ntroduction

Rock, Paper, Scissors (RPS) is a beloved and timeless game enjoyed by people of all ages across the globe. Its simple rules, easy-to-understand hand gestures, and the element of chance make it an engaging way to settle disputes, pass the time, or just have fun. Despite its seemingly universal appeal, the game has many unique variations and adaptations, reflecting the diverse cultures in which it is played. In this article, we will explore how RPS is played in different parts of the world, the names and gestures used, and any distinctive rules that accompany these variations.

1. Japan: The Birthplace of RPS

The game’s origin can be traced back to Japan, where it is known as “Janken” (じゃん拳). Janken employs the same three familiar elements—rock (or “guu”), paper (or “paa”), and scissors (or “choki”). However, the gestures for each element are slightly different. The rock gesture is a closed fist, paper is an open hand, and scissors are represented by the index and middle fingers extended. The game’s rules are the same as in the Western version: rock beats scissors, scissors beat paper, and paper beats rock.

2. China: A Taste of History

In China, the game is known as “Cai Quan” (猜拳) or “Fist Guessing.” Cai Quan is often played as a drinking game, and its roots can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). While the general rules remain the same as the classic RPS, the gestures in Cai Quan can vary, with some regions using additional gestures like a horn, which symbolizes a bull’s horns, and a sparrow.

3. Indonesia and Malaysia: The World of Animal Elements

In Indonesia and Malaysia, a unique version of RPS called “Suit” is played. This variation replaces rock, paper, and scissors with animal elements: elephant, human, and ant. The elephant gesture is made by holding out the thumb, the human gesture is formed by extending the pinky, and the ant gesture is represented by the index finger. In this version, the elephant beats the human, the human beats the ant, and the ant defeats the elephant.

4. Korea: The Twist of Probability

Korean RPS, called “Kai Bai Bo” (가위 바위 보), follows the same rules and gestures as the Japanese Janken. However, in some local versions, players can throw in a fourth option called “bo,” which is a hand with all fingers extended. Bo is unique because it loses to all other elements, making it a high-risk, high-reward choice that adds an element of probability to the game.

5. South Africa: A Burst of Creativity

In South Africa, a variation called “Ching Chong Cha” uses the same basic rules as RPS but with a few additional gestures. Players can choose from rock, paper, scissors, water, or fire. The water gesture is a cupped hand, and fire is represented by a thumbs-up. Water beats rock and fire, fire beats paper and scissors, and the classic RPS rules still apply.

6. France: The Addition of the Well

In France, a version called “Pierre-Papier-Ciseaux-Puits” (Rock-Paper-Scissors-Well) adds a fourth element called “puits” (well) to the traditional RPS elements. The well is represented by a cupped hand and beats rock and scissors but loses to paper. This additional element introduces new strategies and tactics to the game, making it more complex and engaging.

7. Brazil: A Touch of the Supernatural

In Brazil, “Jo Ken Po” or “Pedra, Papel e Tesoura” (Rock, Paper, and Scissors) sometimes includes a supernatural twist. The game is played with the familiar RPS rules, but an additional element called “Spock” (inspired by the Vulcan salute from Star Trek) is included. The Spock gesture is formed by extending the index and middle fingers, while keeping the ring and pinky fingers together. Spock beats rock and scissors but loses to paper.

8. Italy: Ancient Roman Influences

Italy’s version of RPS, called “Morra Cinese” (Chinese Morra), is inspired by the ancient Roman game “Morra,” which involves players simultaneously showing a certain number of fingers and guessing the total number of fingers shown by both players. Morra Cinese maintains the same rules and gestures as the traditional RPS game, but it is often played in a more competitive manner, with players attempting to outwit their opponents through psychological tactics and deception.

9. Vietnam: Honoring the Elements

In Vietnam, the game is known as “ốc sên, lá, kéo” (Snail, Leaf, Scissors). Instead of rock, the Vietnamese version uses a snail, which is represented by a fist with the thumb sticking out. The other gestures remain the same as the traditional RPS game. The snail beats the leaf, the leaf beats the scissors, and the scissors beat the snail. This variation pays tribute to Vietnam’s lush natural environment and the importance of balance among the elements.

10. Spain: A Knightly Duel

In Spain, a variation called “Piedra, Papel, Tijera, Lagarto, Spock” (Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock) was popularized by the television show “The Big Bang Theory.” The game adds two new elements, lizard and Spock. The lizard gesture is made by forming a “sock puppet” shape with the hand, while the Spock gesture is the Vulcan salute. The rules are as follows: rock crushes scissors, scissors cut paper, paper covers rock, rock crushes lizard, lizard poisons Spock, Spock smashes scissors, scissors decapitate lizard, lizard eats paper, paper disproves Spock, and Spock vaporizes rock.

11. Hungary: A Unique Twist

In Hungary, the game is called “Kő-Papír-Olló” and follows the traditional RPS rules. However, a unique variation called “Kő-Papír-Olló-Csiga” (Rock-Paper-Scissors-Snail) adds the snail element similar to the Vietnamese version. The snail is represented by a fist with the thumb extended. The snail defeats paper, paper beats rock, rock crushes scissors, and scissors cut the snail. This interesting twist adds a new layer of complexity and enjoyment to the game.

12. Russia: A Striking Adaptation

In Russia, the game is called “Камень, Ножницы, Бумага” (Kamen, Nozhnitsy, Bumaga), which translates to Rock, Scissors, Paper. The game follows the same rules and gestures as the traditional RPS. However, a popular variation called “Кулак, Молния, Ядро” (Kulak, Molniya, Yadro) or Fist, Lightning, Nucleus is played. The fist represents rock, the lightning is depicted by a pointed finger and thumb resembling a lightning bolt, and the nucleus is portrayed by a cupped hand. Fist beats lightning, lightning beats nucleus, and nucleus beats fist.

13. Greece: The Power of Gods

In Greece, a variation of RPS called “Πέτρα, Χαρτί, Ψαλίδι, Τυφώνας” (Petra, Charti, Psalidi, Tyfonas) or Rock, Paper, Scissors, Typhoon is played. The typhoon is the fourth element, symbolizing the power of the gods. The typhoon gesture is made by extending the index and little fingers while folding the remaining fingers into a fist. Typhoon beats rock, paper, and scissors, but loses when the opponent also chooses typhoon.

14. Philippines: A Nod to Nature

In the Philippines, a variation called “Bato, Bao, Gunting” (Rock, Crab, Scissors) is played. The game follows the traditional RPS rules but replaces paper with a crab. The crab gesture is made by forming a claw with the hand, imitating the pincers of a crab. The rock crushes the scissors, scissors cut the crab, and the crab defeats the rock. This variation pays homage to the country’s rich marine life and the importance of nature in Filipino culture.

15. Germany: A Dynamic Quartet

In Germany, the game is called “Schere, Stein, Papier” (Scissors, Rock, Paper) and follows the traditional RPS rules. However, a variation called “Brunnen” (Well) is popular in some regions. The well gesture is formed by cupping the hand, similar to the French “Puits” variation. The well beats rock and scissors but loses to paper. This addition brings an extra layer of strategy to the game.

16. Iran: A Creative Fusion

In Iran, a variation called “Sang, Kaghaz, Gheychi” (Rock, Paper, Scissors) is played with a unique twist. The game follows the traditional RPS rules, but sometimes an additional element called “Qanun” (Law) is added. The law gesture is made by placing the thumb on the tip of the nose with the fingers extended upwards. Law beats rock, paper, and scissors but loses when both players choose law.

17. Australia: An Iconic Tribute

In Australia, RPS is known as “Rock, Paper, Scissors,” and the game follows the traditional rules. However, a playful variation called “Rock, Paper, Scissors, Kangaroo” adds a fourth element: the kangaroo. The kangaroo gesture is made by forming a fist with the thumb extended upward, mimicking a kangaroo’s head. The kangaroo beats rock and scissors, but loses to paper. This uniquely Australian twist adds an element of fun and a nod to the country’s iconic wildlife.

18. Sweden: A Refreshing Alternative

In Sweden, a variant of RPS is played called “Sten, Sax, Påse” (Rock, Scissors, Bag). The game follows the traditional RPS rules, but paper is replaced by a bag. The bag gesture is formed by cupping the hand, similar to the French “Puits” and German “Brunnen” variations. The bag beats rock and scissors but loses to the scissors, which cut the bag open.

19. Turkey: A Blend of Cultures

In Turkey, RPS is known as “Taş, Kağıt, Makas” (Rock, Paper, Scissors) and follows the traditional rules. However, a variation called “Taş, Kağıt, Makas, Yıldırım” (Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lightning) adds a fourth element inspired by the Russian version. The lightning gesture is depicted by a pointed finger and thumb resembling a lightning bolt. Lightning beats rock and scissors but loses to paper, which grounds it.

20. Colombia: A Colorful Encounter

In Colombia, RPS is called “Piedra, Papel o Tijera” (Rock, Paper, or Scissors) and follows the traditional rules. However, a variation called “Piedra, Papel, Tijera, Serpiente” (Rock, Paper, Scissors, Snake) adds a fourth element. The snake gesture is made by extending the arm and hand, with the fingers together and palm facing down, imitating a slithering snake. The snake beats rock and scissors but loses to paper, which traps it.

21. Israel: A Touch of the Divine

In Israel, a variation of RPS called “אבן, נייר, עץ, אל” (Even, Niyar, Etz, El) or Rock, Paper, Tree, God is played. This version adds two new elements: tree and God. The tree gesture is made by extending the index and middle fingers, resembling branches, and the God gesture is made by raising the hand with the palm facing forward, representing divine power. The tree beats rock and paper, but loses to scissors and God. God beats all elements except when both players choose God.

22. Mexico: A Cultural Mixture

In Mexico, RPS is called “Piedra, Papel, Tijera” (Rock, Paper, Scissors) and follows the traditional rules. However, a variation called “Piedra, Papel, Tijera, Lagartija” (Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard) adds a fourth element inspired by the Spanish version. The lizard gesture is made by forming a “sock puppet” shape with the hand. The lizard beats paper and loses to rock and scissors, adding a new layer of complexity to the game.

23. Thailand: A Dynamic Trio

In Thailand, a variation of RPS called “หิน, กระดาษ, กรรไกร” (Hin, Kradaat, Kradii) or Rock, Paper, Scissors is played, following the traditional rules. However, a unique version called “ช้าง, คน, มด” (Chang, Khon, Mod) or Elephant, Human, Ant is also played, similar to the Indonesian and Malaysian version. The elephant gesture is made by holding out the thumb, the human gesture is formed by extending the pinky, and the ant gesture is represented by the index finger. The elephant beats the human, the human beats the ant, and the ant defeats the elephant.

24. South Korea: An Elemental Affair

In South Korea, a variation of RPS called “가위 바위 보” (Gawi Bawi Bo) or Scissors, Rock, Cloth is played. The game follows the traditional RPS rules but uses cloth instead of paper. The cloth gesture is made by holding the hand palm-down and fingers extended, similar to the paper gesture. This version emphasizes the elemental nature of the game, with cloth representing a more flexible and soft material than paper.

25. South Africa: A Safari Adventure

In South Africa, RPS is called “Klip, Papier, Skêr” (Rock, Paper, Scissors) in Afrikaans and follows the traditional rules. However, a unique version called “Leeu, Olifant, Jagter” (Lion, Elephant, Hunter) adds a safari twist. The lion gesture is made by forming a claw with the hand, the elephant gesture is represented by an extended arm and hand with fingers together, mimicking a trunk, and the hunter gesture is depicted by holding an imaginary rifle. The lion beats the hunter, the hunter beats the elephant, and the elephant beats the lion.

26. Nepal: A Mountainous Challenge

In Nepal, RPS is known as “ढुंगा, कागज, कैंची” (Dhunga, Kagaj, Kainchi) or Rock, Paper, Scissors and follows the traditional rules. However, a variation called “ढुंगा, कागज, कैंची, हिमाल” (Dhunga, Kagaj, Kainchi, Himal) or Rock, Paper, Scissors, Mountain adds a fourth element. The mountain gesture is made by forming a triangle with both hands, fingertips touching. The mountain beats rock and scissors but loses to paper, which covers it.

27. Canada: A Hockey-Inspired Twist

In Canada, the traditional RPS game is called “Roche, Papier, Ciseaux” in French and “Rock, Paper, Scissors” in English. However, a unique variation called “Hockey Stick, Puck, Goalie” pays homage to the nation’s favorite sport. The hockey stick gesture is made by forming an L-shape with the thumb and index finger, the puck gesture is a closed fist, and the goalie gesture is a flat, open hand. The hockey stick beats the puck, the puck beats the goalie, and the goalie beats the hockey stick.

28. United States: A Classic Version

In the United States, RPS is known as “Rock, Paper, Scissors” and follows the traditional rules. There are no widely recognized variations unique to the country, but regional and informal versions may exist among friends and communities. The game remains a popular pastime, often used for decision-making and resolving disputes.

29. United Kingdom: An Ancient Legacy

In the United Kingdom, RPS is called “Rock, Paper, Scissors” and follows the traditional rules. The game is said to have originated in the UK or Ireland, although evidence is inconclusive. In England, there is a variation called “Cave, River, Bridge,” in which cave beats river, river beats bridge, and bridge beats cave. The gestures remain the same as in the traditional game.

30. Scotland: A Highland Fling

In Scotland, RPS is called “Rock, Paper, Scissors” and follows the traditional rules. A unique Scottish variation called “Thistle, Claymore, Stone” incorporates symbols of the Scottish Highlands. The thistle gesture is made by extending the pinky and thumb, the claymore (sword) gesture is an extended index and middle finger, and the stone gesture is a closed fist. The thistle beats the stone, the claymore beats the thistle, and the stone beats the claymore.

31. Ireland: A Celtic Tribute

In Ireland, RPS is called “Carraig, Páipéar, Siosúr” in Irish and follows the traditional rules. A variation called “Clover, Shillelagh, Stone” celebrates Celtic heritage. The clover gesture is made by forming a three-fingered pinch, the shillelagh (walking stick) gesture is an extended index finger, and the stone gesture is a closed fist. The clover beats the stone, the shillelagh beats the clover, and the stone beats the shillelagh.

32. India: A Mythological Connection

In India, RPS is known as “पत्थर, कागज, कैंची” (Pathar, Kagaz, Kainchi) in Hindi and follows the traditional rules. A popular variation called “Deva, Asura, Manushya” (God, Demon, Human) reflects the country’s rich mythological heritage. The God gesture is made by raising the hand with the palm facing forward, the Demon gesture is formed by creating a claw with the hand, and the Human gesture is depicted by folding the hand into a fist. God beats Demon and Human, Demon beats Human, and Human loses to both God and Demon.

33. Pakistan: A Classic Game

In Pakistan, RPS is called “پتھر, کاغذ, قینچی” (Pathar, Kagaz, Qainchi) in Urdu and follows the traditional rules. There are no widely recognized unique variations in the country, but regional and informal versions may exist among friends and communities.

34. Nigeria: A Royal Affair

In Nigeria, RPS is called “Oko, Pepa, Sisọ” (Rock, Paper, Scissors) in Yoruba and follows the traditional rules. A unique variation called “Oba, Àgbà, Omọ” (King, Elder, Child) incorporates Nigerian social hierarchy. The King gesture is a raised, open palm, the Elder gesture is a fist with the index finger extended, and the Child gesture is a closed fist. The King beats the Child, the Elder beats the King, and the Child beats the Elder.

35. Bangladesh: An Elemental Encounter

In Bangladesh, RPS is known as “পাথর, কাগজ, কাঁচি” (Pathar, Kagaj, Kanchi) in Bengali and follows the traditional rules. A popular variation called “Agni, Jol, Bataash” (Fire, Water, Air) incorporates the elements. The Fire gesture is a fist with the thumb extended, the Water gesture is a cupped hand, and the Air gesture is a flat, open hand. Fire beats Air, Water beats Fire, and Air beats Water.

36. Ethiopia: A Natural Adaptation

In Ethiopia, RPS is called “ዐልባ, ወረቀት, ጥግ” (Alba, Wareket, Teg) in Amharic and follows the traditional rules. A variation called “Buna, Teff, Enset” (Coffee, Teff, False Banana) incorporates native crops. The Coffee gesture is a closed fist, the Teff gesture is an open palm, and the False Banana gesture is a cupped hand. Coffee beats Teff, Teff beats False Banana, and False Banana beats Coffee.

37. Egypt: An Ancient Spin

In Egypt, RPS is called “حجر, ورق, مقص” (Hajar, Waraq, Maqas) in Arabic and follows the traditional rules. A unique variation called “Sphinx, Pyramid, Nile” celebrates the country’s ancient history. The Sphinx gesture is a clawed hand, the Pyramid gesture is a triangle formed by touching the fingertips of both hands, and the Nile gesture is a wavy hand motion. The Sphinx beats the Pyramid, the Pyramid beats the Nile, and the Nile beats the Sphinx.

38. Poland: A Creative Approach

In Poland, RPS is called “Kamień, Papier, Nożyce” and follows the traditional rules. A unique variation called “Rycerz, Smok, Księżniczka” (Knight, Dragon, Princess) incorporates elements of Polish folklore. The Knight gesture is an extended index and middle finger, representing a sword, the Dragon gesture is a clawed hand, and the Princess gesture is an open palm with the fingers together. The Knight beats the Dragon, the Dragon beats the Princess, and the Princess beats the Knight.

39. Kazakhstan: A Nomadic Inspiration

In Kazakhstan, RPS is known as “Тас, Кағаз, Қайшы” (Tas, Kagaz, Qayshi) in Kazakh and follows the traditional rules. A popular variation called “At, Zhigit, Shaar” (Horse, Rider, Wolf) reflects the nomadic history of the region. The Horse gesture is formed by extending the index and middle fingers, the Rider gesture is a fist with the thumb extended, and the Wolf gesture is a clawed hand. The Horse beats the Wolf, the Rider beats the Horse, and the Wolf beats the Rider.

Conclusion

The variations of Rock, Paper, Scissors in so many countries demonstrate the game’s adaptability and global appeal. Each unique adaptation reflects the cultural distinctiveness of the region and highlights the power of play in connecting people from diverse backgrounds. These creative adaptations emphasize the importance of imagination, cultural exchange, and shared experiences.