How to Play the Imposter Game

Overview

Imposter is a social deduction word game for groups (4–10 players). Most players share the same secret word, while one player is the Imposter with a different word. By giving short clues in turn, players try to identify the Imposter—while the Imposter blends in and avoids detection.

Setup

• Gather 4–10 players and sit or stand in a circle.
• Use the Imposter Game Generator to get a round’s secret words.
• Privately show each player their word. Exactly one player gets the Imposter word.
• Choose turn order (clockwise works well) and a starting player.

How a Round Works

1. Clue Phase: In turn, each player says a short clue related to their word—no full definitions, names, or overly revealing hints.
2. Discussion: After one clue per player (or two rounds of clues), the group briefly discusses suspicious clues or behavior.
3. Vote: Count down and everyone points to who they think is the Imposter. The player with the most votes is accused.
4. Reveal: The accused reveals if they were the Imposter. If yes, the group wins; if not, the Imposter continues and may try to guess the group’s word to steal the round.

Clue Guidelines

• Keep clues short—one phrase or sentence.
• Avoid ultra-specific facts that would immediately reveal the word.
• Stay consistent: your second clue should align with your first.
• As Imposter, reference broad traits that could fit multiple similar words.

Winning Tips

• For Crewmates: Listen for contradictions, overly generic clues, or clues that feel slightly off-topic.
• For Imposter: Echo the tone of others’ clues and avoid committing to specifics until you’re confident.
• Use categories like “food”, “animals”, “movies” to ground clues naturally.
• Don’t over-explain—confidence without detail often looks more authentic.

Variants

• Double Imposter: Two players get the Imposter word. Great for 8–10 players and adds misdirection.
• Sudden Guess: After voting fails to find the Imposter, allow a single guess by the Imposter to win.
• Timed Clues: Each clue must be given within 10 seconds to keep pace lively.

FAQ