Imposter: the pass-the-phone word game
Add the players, tap Play and pass the phone around. Everyone sees the secret word except the imposter, who has to bluff.
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How to play Imposter
- Type everyone's name and choose how many imposters you want (one is best for 3 to 6 players).
- Tap Play and pass the phone. Each player taps the card, reads it in secret and passes the phone on.
- Everyone gets the same secret word, except the imposter, who only learns that they're the imposter (and a vague hint, if you switch hints on).
- Going around the circle, each player says one word or a short clue about the secret word.
- After one or two rounds, everyone votes for the player they think is the imposter. Tap Reveal the imposter to see who it was.
How to win
- Players win if they vote out the imposter, and the imposter can't then guess the secret word.
- The imposter wins if nobody spots them, or if they're caught but guess the word correctly.
Tips for great clues
- Be specific, but not too specific. For "Eiffel Tower", "metal" is a good clue; "Paris" gives it away to the imposter.
- Listen to the first clues. If you're the imposter, wait for a few clues before you speak, then say something that fits all of them.
- Watch for hesitation. Imposters often give clues that are a bit too general, or repeat someone else's idea.
Variations
- Two imposters: with 7 or more players, add a second imposter. They don't know each other.
- No hints: switch off the hint for a harder game for the imposter.
- Speed round: set the 1-minute timer and give clues as fast as you can.
- Theme night: choose just one category, like Food and drink or Places and landmarks.
Questions people ask
How many people do you need to play Imposter?
At least 3, and it's most fun with 4 to 10. You can add up to 30 players and up to 3 imposters.
Do we need more than one phone?
No. The whole game runs on one phone that you pass around, so nobody needs an app or an account.
What is the imposter's hint?
A vague word linked to the secret word, like "Fast food" for Burger. It helps the imposter bluff. You can switch it off for a harder game.
Will we get the same word twice?
The game remembers the last 400 words played on this device and skips them, so words rarely repeat.
Are the words suitable for everyone?
Yes. The list uses everyday words known around the world, such as foods, animals, famous places, jobs and sports, so it works for families, friends and offices.