Imagine this: you’re sitting around with friends, a mischievous glint in your eye. Someone whips out a deck of cards emblazoned with ludicrous prompts – “Act out the feeling of getting a paper cut on your tongue,” or “Convince the group that pineapples are actually mammals.” Welcome to “What Are You Doing?” (WAYD?), a party game designed to unleash your inner weirdo and leave you breathless with laughter.
WAYD? is the brainchild of game designer Dan McCarthy, who saw a gap in the market for a game that celebrated absurdity and rewarded unhinged creativity. The result is a card-driven guessing game that throws players into the deep end of ridiculous scenarios, prompting them to act, mime, sing, or simply babble their way through hilarious prompts.
Deciphering the Gameplay: From “What?” to “Aha!”
WAYD? plays best with 3-8 players and a healthy dose of social lubricant (aka laughter). The gameplay is deceptively simple yet endlessly entertaining. Each round begins with one player drawing a prompt card, which presents a quirky scenario like “Describe how you would win an arm wrestling contest against a squirrel.” The player then must act out the scenario without speaking any words.
The other players observe the performance, trying to decipher the hidden prompt. They write down their guesses on individual sheets of paper. Once everyone has made a guess, they reveal their answers simultaneously.
Points are awarded for correct guesses, but the real joy lies in the ridiculous performances and the ensuing debate over what exactly the player was attempting to convey.
Prompts: The Heart of the Hilariousness
The heart of WAYD? is its eclectic collection of 300 prompt cards. These range from the mildly absurd – “Pretend you’re a squirrel who just discovered your nuts have been stolen” – to the downright bizarre – “Act out the sensation of trying on clothes for the first time after puberty.” The prompts are designed to spark imagination and push players outside their comfort zones, leading to unexpected and side-splitting moments.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the categories you can expect:
Category | Examples |
---|---|
Actions | “Juggle invisible watermelons,” “Perform a synchronized swimming routine with an imaginary partner.” |
Feelings | “Express the disappointment of finding out your birthday cake is actually a veggie burger,” “Convince the group that you’re secretly a superhero.” |
Situations | “Act out being trapped in a washing machine during the spin cycle,” “Pretend you’re a statue who suddenly comes to life.” |
Beyond Laughter: The Deeper Layers of WAYD?
While WAYD? primarily aims to deliver belly laughs, it also subtly fosters important social skills. Players learn to read non-verbal cues, interpret subtle gestures, and communicate creatively without resorting to words. This game is a fantastic icebreaker for new groups and can help build confidence in individuals who might be hesitant to express themselves openly.
Production Quality: A Polished Gem
WAYD? boasts high-quality production values that reflect the thoughtfulness behind its design. The cards are thick and durable, featuring colorful illustrations that enhance the playful nature of the game. The rulebook is clear and concise, making it easy for anyone to pick up and play.
Verdict: A Must-Have for Party Gamers
WAYD? is a refreshing addition to the party game landscape. It’s simple to learn but endlessly replayable, thanks to its vast collection of prompt cards. Whether you’re looking for a hilarious icebreaker or a game that will leave your friends in stitches, WAYD? is a surefire winner.
So gather your friends, unleash your inner goofball, and prepare for an evening of laughter and unbridled creativity with “What Are You Doing?” – because sometimes the best conversations happen without saying a single word.