How to Play Rock Paper Scissors
Rock Paper Scissors (RPS) is the world's most popular hand game. Two players simultaneously throw one of three hand gestures, and a simple hierarchy determines the winner. You can learn it in under a minute.
The Three Throws
Each player forms one of these hand shapes:
✌️
Scissors
Two extended fingers
Who Wins?
- Rock beats Scissors - Rock crushes Scissors
- Scissors beats Paper - Scissors cuts Paper
- Paper beats Rock - Paper covers Rock
- Same throw = Tie - Play again
Step-by-Step: How to Play
- Face your opponent. Stand or sit so you can see each other's hands clearly.
- Make a fist. Both players start with a closed fist, hand in front of them.
- Count together. Pump your fist on each count: "Rock… Paper… Scissors… Shoot!" (Some regions use "Rock, Paper, Scissors" with the throw on "Scissors," or "One, two, three" with the throw on three.)
- Throw on "Shoot." On the final count, both players simultaneously reveal their chosen gesture.
- Determine the winner. Compare throws using the hierarchy above. If it's a tie, play another round.
Match Formats
| Format | When to Use |
|---|
| Single round | Quick decisions (who goes first, who pays) |
| Best of 3 | Most common casual format - first to 2 wins |
| Best of 5 | Competitive matches - first to 3 wins, reduces luck |
| First to 10 | Extended practice or training sessions |
Tips for Beginners
- Don't always start with Rock. Rock is the most common opening throw. Your opponent may expect it.
- Be unpredictable. Avoid falling into patterns like Rock-Paper-Scissors-Rock-Paper-Scissors.
- Watch your opponent. Over several rounds, most people develop habits you can spot.
- Keep a poker face. Don't give away your throw with your expression or body language.
- Have fun. RPS is a game. Enjoy it.
Common Questions
What if we tie?
Play the round again immediately, until someone wins.
Which counting method is official?
The WRPSA standard is "Rock… Paper… Scissors… Shoot!" - throws are revealed on "Shoot." See the full official rules for tournament counting rules.
Can I play online?
Yes. The WRPSA platform lets you play real-time matches against other players or practice against AI opponents. Create a free account to start playing.
Ready for More?
Once you've got the basics down, explore these next steps:
- Official Rules - Tournament regulations and competitive standards
- Strategy Guide - Learn to win more than 33% of your games
- Variations - Lizard Spock, RPS-25, and other creative versions
- Glossary - RPS terminology from "gambit" to "Roshambo"
Start playing now
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