Official Scattergories Rules

Last Updated on October 30, 2025 by The Official Game Rules Team

Scattergories is a fast-paced word game where creativity and quick thinking earn you points. Players race against the timer to fill out a list of categories with answers that all start with the same letter. Unique answers score points—so think fast and think differently! If you enjoy party word games like Taboo or Just One, Scattergories is another great addition to your game night lineup.

Number of Players: 2–6 | Recommended Age: 12+

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How to Play Scattergories (Complete Guide)

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Game Components

• 6 Folders with clip strips
• 1 Answer pad
• 48 Category cards (lists)
• 1 20-sided letter die
• 1 Timer
• 1 Die-rolling board
• 6 Pencils

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Object of the Game

Score the most points by writing original answers that fit each category and start with the rolled letter. You earn points only for answers no one else has.

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Setup

1. Assemble the folders: Attach a clip strip to each folder (instructions are printed inside).
2. Insert batteries: The timer requires two AAA batteries.
3. Distribute materials: Each player takes a folder, pencil, and answer sheet.
4. Choose a category list: All players must use the same list number.
5. Roll the letter die: Roll on the die board to choose the starting letter.

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Scattergories Gameplay

The game is played over three rounds. Each round follows these steps:

1. Roll the Letter

One player rolls the 20-sided die to determine the letter for that round. This letter will be the starting letter for every answer on the list.

Example: If the letter “P” is rolled and the category is “Fruits,” acceptable answers could include Pear or Pineapple.

2. Start the Timer

Set the timer to 3 minutes and press the top to start the countdown.

3. Fill in the List

Each player writes one answer for each of the 12 categories that fits the theme and starts with the chosen letter.

• You can skip categories and come back later if time allows.
• Be creative—unique answers are key to scoring.

When the timer stops, everyone must immediately stop writing.

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Scoring

Players take turns reading their answers aloud.

• If two or more players have the same answer, no one gets a point for it.
• Unique, valid answers earn 1 point each.
• Record your score for the round at the top of your answer sheet.

After scoring, roll a new letter and repeat using the same list.

If the same letter comes up again, reroll.

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Winning the Game

After three rounds, total your points.
The player with the highest score wins!

In case of a tie, the tied players play one more round to determine the winner.

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Rules for Acceptable Answers

• The first word must start with the rolled letter.
• Articles such as A, An, or The are ignored when determining the first letter. (The Lion King counts for “L.”)
• You cannot use the same answer twice in one round.
• Proper names can use either the first or last name if it matches the letter. (G for George Bush or Garfield.)
• Creative answers are allowed, but if challenged, players vote on their validity. Majority rules.

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Game Variations

• Extra Points: Earn an extra point for multi-word answers that repeat the key letter (e.g., Ronald Reagan, Carson City).
• Shorter Rounds: For a challenge, set the timer to 2½ or 2 minutes.
• Tiebreaker Round: If players tie after three rounds, roll a new letter and play a final round.

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FAQ: Scattergories Rules

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Conclusion

Scattergories is a quick-thinking, laugh-filled party game that rewards creativity and originality. Perfect for family nights, holiday gatherings, or team events, it’s all about how many clever answers you can come up with before the timer runs out.

If you enjoy Scattergories, try other popular word and party games like Blank Slate or Telestrations for more group fun.