All team quizzes & games

Party games

Rock-paper-scissors tournament

A knockout tournament where losers become cheerleaders for the winner - quick, silly, and surprisingly exciting.

Players
10-100
Duration
15-25 minutes
Energy level
High
Works online
Yes

How to play - step by step

  1. 1

    Everyone pairs up with a nearby colleague.

  2. 2

    On the count of three, both players show rock, paper, or scissors.

  3. 3

    The winner moves on; the loser becomes a cheerleader following the winner.

  4. 4

    Winners find new opponents and play again; cheerleaders chant their name.

  5. 5

    The crowd gets bigger behind each remaining player.

  6. 6

    The final two play with the whole group cheering for the champion.

Benefits

  • Releases stress and lifts the mood of the whole group.
  • Brings out different sides of colleagues and builds friendships.
  • Great for celebrations, events, and energy after lunch.
  • Creates memories and photos that people enjoy sharing.

What you need

  • Open space for people to stand in pairs.
  • A host, a whistle or bell, and a small prize.

Rules

  • Best of one in each match; draws replay.
  • Cheerleaders must follow their champion and cheer loudly.
  • Keep the area free of obstacles.

Scoring and winning

  • The last player standing wins; the cheer group shares the applause.

Variations

  • Team version: teams of three play and share points.
  • Use a themed twist: robot, human, or animal instead of rock-paper-scissors.
  • Play it during a break as a quick energiser.

Playing it online

  • Pair people in breakout rooms or in a bracket on screen.
  • Use the video call’s “raise hands” to display moves at the same time.

Tips for the host

  • Start with a loud host and fun music to set the mood.
  • Take photos of the cheering crowd.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Letting the game run too long - 15 minutes is plenty.
  • Not using space safely when groups grow.

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