[ad_1] Rock, Paper, Scissors, commonly known as RPS, has been a staple childhood game for generations. But over the past few decades, this simple game has turned into a legitimate competitive sport with its own world championships, professional players, and tournaments.

The roots of RPS can be traced back to ancient China, where finger games were used as a form of communication and decision-making. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that RPS gained popularity in the Western world. In the 1920s, the game was even used to settle disputes in courtrooms.

But it wasn’t until the 2000s that RPS began its unlikely rise to competitive sport status. The first recorded RPS tournament was held in Toronto in 2002, and since then, the sport has gained an enthusiastic following.

So, what exactly is competitive RPS? The game follows the basic rules of the childhood version, where rock beats scissors, scissors beats paper, and paper beats rock. However, in the competitive version, players use a series of hand signals to indicate which move they will make, adding an element of strategy.

Competitions can range from small local tournaments to large international events. The biggest RPS tournament is the World RPS Championship, held annually in Toronto. The tournament attracts players from all over the world and offers substantial cash prizes.

Professional RPS players, known as throwers, take the game seriously. They study their opponents’ tendencies, practice different techniques, and develop their own unique strategies. Some even hire coaches to help them improve their game.

The game has also spawned several variations, including RPS 15, where players compete for a longer duration with more hand signals, and RPS Tag Team, where two-player teams compete against each other.

So, why has RPS gained such a dedicated following? For one, the game’s accessibility and simplicity make it easy for anyone to learn and play. Additionally, the strategy involved in the competitive version of the game adds an element of depth that attracts serious players.

But perhaps the biggest draw is the sense of community that surrounds RPS. Players come from all walks of life and can bond over their shared passion for the game. Whether they are amateur throwers or professional competitors, players respect and support each other, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

In conclusion, the unlikely rise of RPS from a childhood game to a competitive sport can be attributed to its accessibility and the sense of community it fosters. While it may seem like a simple game, competitive RPS requires skill, strategy, and dedication, and the players who participate in its growing tournaments are proof of its legitimacy as a sport.[ad_2]