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Rock Paper Scissors

Pick your hand, read the matchup and keep score.

Rock Paper Scissors rules, tactics & how to play

Learn the rules of Rock Paper Scissors and the mind games that give you an edge, then play the computer above.

Rules & how to play

The goal

Pick rock, paper or scissors and beat the computer's choice over a running tally.

What beats what

  • Rock crushes scissors.
  • Scissors cut paper.
  • Paper covers rock.
  • The same choice is a tie.
Strategy and psychology

Do not repeat after a loss

Players tend to switch throws after losing. Anticipating that pattern helps you predict the next move.

Watch for streaks

People rarely throw the same option many times in a row. If rock has come up twice, a change is likely next.

Stay unpredictable yourself

Mix your own throws so no pattern can be read back against you.

Frequently asked questions

What are the rules of Rock Paper Scissors?

Both players choose rock, paper or scissors at the same time. Rock beats scissors, scissors beat paper, and paper beats rock. The same choice on both sides is a tie.

Is there any strategy to Rock Paper Scissors?

Yes, against human-like opponents. People tend to switch their throw after a loss and rarely repeat the same choice several times in a row, so anticipating those habits while staying unpredictable yourself gives an edge.

What beats rock in Rock Paper Scissors?

Paper beats rock by covering it. Rock in turn beats scissors, and scissors beat paper, forming the classic three-way cycle.