Welcome to Shoulder Touch International 

Look for The Shoulder Touch Game at GenCon 2016!

The rules are simple.
  • All players MUST specifically agree to play, after knowing the rules.
  • Players stand in a circle, shoulders touching, facing inward (see sample diagrams below).
  • Players may ONLY touch each other shoulder-to-shoulder ("Lite Mode", as described below in the variants, offers a way to play with hand-to-shoulder touch instead). Any other touching eliminates the player. The exception to this is when playing with two players. In this case, the players will most likely have their chests touching as well, and their heads will most likely be on each others' shoulders, since in order to have both your shoulders touching the other player, you will be VERY close. ONLY PLAY WITH TWO PLAYERS IF THEY KNOW EACH OTHER WELL AND/OR ARE VERY COMFORTABLE WITH EACH OTHER.
  • Any player who talks, laughs, or otherwise makes noise is eliminated (legitimate sneezing or coughing does not eliminate a player).
  • Any player who breaks shoulder contact is eliminated.
  • No force may be applied when touching (either shoulder-to-shoulder, or hand-to-shoulder as in the "Lite Mode" described in the variants). Using force is grounds for elimination.
  • When a player is eliminated, the game ends. There are no winners, only one loser.
  • Variants listed below.
  • Remember - The Shoulder Touch Game isn't just a game - it's a lifestyle.

TIPS
DO
Have fun.
Spread the word about The Shoulder Touch Game.
Tell us how much you love playing.
DON'T
Involve anyone who hasn't specifically agreed to play.
Touch anyone in any way other than shoulder-to-shoulder (exception: see "Lite Mode", described below in the variants).
Act creepy or inappropriately during the game.

Sample Diagrams
(top down view)
Three Players Four Players Five Players
You get the idea.

Variants (feel free to combine any of them)
  • Lite Mode: recommended for conventions, or anytime else you are playing with people you don't know well. In this variant, instead of touching shoulder to shoulder, each player places a hand on the shoulder of the player to their left.
  • Tournament Mode: play until only one player remains. As each player is eliminated, close the circle with the remaining players. Much like Musical Chairs.
  • Eye Contact Mode (also known as Hard Mode): each player must maintain eye contact with at least one other player during the game.
  • Shocking Elimination Mode: when a player is eliminated for talking or noise, yell "NO TALKING!" (best done in a shrill, high-pitched voice)


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