The Rock-Paper-Scissors World Cup Actually Exists. It’s No Joke

Netflix’s Squid Game has shown that games aren’t just for kids. As we grow up, we tend to stop playing most of them, but one game remains ingrained in our culture: rock-paper-scissors. This seemingly simple game holds enough importance that world championships even exist. Thousands of dollars are at stake.

WRPSA. The World Rock Paper Scissors Association’s (WRPSA) YouTube channel has a parody-like quality. On its website, there are images of famous paintings that have been modified to resemble a game of rock-paper-scissors. However, the WRPSA is a serious organization with an international presence.

The WRPSA was established in 2015, building on the legacy of the World Rock Paper Scissors Society, which hosted international championships from 2002 to 2009. The WRPSA also organizes tournaments that bring together the world’s best players to compete in rock, paper, scissors for substantial prizes.

Rules. Participants simultaneously perform one of three gestures: rock (closed fist), scissors (two fingers extended to form a “V”), and paper (palm and all fingers extended). The mechanics are simple. Rock beats scissors, scissors beat paper, and paper beats rock. This game dynamic has inspired countless RPG games, with the Pokémonsaga being one of the most well-known examples.

However, to compete in international events according to WRPSA rules, players must adhere to several key rules. First, they must reveal their gesture at the same time. Their hands must remain hidden until they display their chosen shape, and they should maintain eye contact with one another. The game is typically played in a best-of-three, best-of-five, or best-of-seven format, with team variants also available. Referees are present to ensure fair play and prevent cheating.

Strategies. At first glance, this game may seem entirely based on chance. While randomness plays a significant role, some strategies can enhance your chances of winning. Some of these strategies are logical, such as avoiding the repetition of the same pattern. Others rely more on psychological insights.

For instance, research shows that winners tend to repeat their moves, whereas losers are more likely to switch to a different shape. As such, if you win, you may instinctively use the same hand gesture again. In contrast, if you lose, you can leverage this tendency by trying to predict your opponent’s next move. For example, if your opponent defeated you with a rock, they may choose rock again, allowing you to win by selecting paper.

What is the best strategy to win? Embrace randomness. Chinese mathematician Zhijian Wang found that the most effective way to win is to use a random strategy. He also discovered that one of the most common patterns among losing players in his study was a repetitive cycle of rock-paper-scissors.

Money. These strategies are an important consideration if you aspire to become a professional in any field. However, does pursuing this path guarantee financial rewards? It depends.

Toronto’s annual World Rock Paper Scissors Championships offers a top prize of up to $10,000. Meanwhile, the U.S. Rock Paper Scissors League, which hosts events across the country, awards prizes ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.

Smaller tournaments may provide prizes such as food vouchers, gift cards, and movie tickets for a year. However, when a major sponsor is involved, the prize money can significantly increase. For example, in 2005, a championship event sponsored by Bud Light during the Super Bowl featured a $1 million prize. Additionally, in 2006 and 2008, Bud Light sponsored the U.S. League with a prize of $50,000 for the champion, along with an invitation to the international championship held in China.

More from Xataka On

The Paris Games Were Supposed to Be the Olympic Debut of Breakdancing, But All Anyone's Talking About is the 'Kangaroo Dance'

Europe. Some of the American championships have been televised. Minor competitions also offer cash prizes, although they primarily serve as a festive gathering centered around food and drink, creating a great atmosphere. Europe has certainly embraced this unique sport.

One of the most famous leagues in Europe is organized by Wacky Nation in the United Kingdom, which awarded prizes of up to $26,000 in its 2019 edition. In other countries, like Spain, prizes are more modest, despite the game being an integral part of their culture.

Asia. China takes the rock-paper-scissors game very seriously. This makes sense, given that the roots of the game can be traced back to the Asian country during the Han dynasty (206 BC to 220 AD). A game known as shoushiling served as the predecessor to the modern game. It later spread to Japan in the 17th century, where it was adapted and evolved into the rules and hand gestures we use today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFaExcs_MgQ

Following the 2008 Olympic Games, the International Rock, Paper, Scissors Federation held a championship featuring top competitors from around the globe. Additionally, in Hong Kong, a more casual tournament for this game determined the winner of an apartment valued at $500,000. Meanwhile, in Japan, there’s a cultural enthusiasm for the game.

Since 2009, Japanese idol group AKB48 has hosted an annual tournament to crown the “Janken Queen.” “Janken” is the Japanese name for rock-paper-scissors. This event is televised and attracts a generous audience. Janken is also played informally in daily life. In the end, regardless of the prize’s appeal, the focus is on having fun, and the celebratory atmosphere of these events reflects that spirit.

Images | Akeyodia | Wikimedia Commons

Related | In 1904, the U.S. Hosted the Worst Olympic Games in History. It Featured a Marathon Winner Who Won With the Help of a Car and Events for ‘Primitive' People