Jenga Rules Explained and How To Set Up the Game
If you want to play a competitive game of Jenga with your friends, it’s important to understand the Jenga rules before you get started. While the rules aren’t overly complicated, they provide good guidelines to follow for a thrilling and unforgettable game. Whether you’re looking for entertaining birthday party activities or a nice way to connect with family, Jenga is an excellent game for making great memories because the further you get in the game, the more intense it gets.
According to The Museum of Play, Jenga was created by Leslie Scott, a creative entrepreneur born in East Africa who is fluent in both English and Swahili. Jenga is derived from the Swahili word kujenga, meaning "to build." Scott played this game with her family as a child before it was officially trademarked in the 1980s. She created Jenga rules that were easy to follow, providing a fun activity for all players.
What are the basic rules of Jenga? We’ve compiled a simple step-by-step guide for how to play Jenga and important Jenga rules for an entertaining and competitive game.
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Jenga Rules
1. Build The Tower
You’ll begin by building a strong and sturdy tower at the start of the game. The set includes 54 blocks, which are arranged in rows of three alternating blocks until the tower reaches a height of 18 blocks. This means placing three blocks facing toward you and then three blocks to your sides.
Use your hands or a flat object, like a tray or large book, to smooth the blocks, ensuring the tower is tall and even for a successful game. Jenga isn't only for the family; it's also one of the best team-building games to bond with your coworkers.
2. Gather The Players
While you can play Jenga individually or to practice, it's much more fun to play with a group of friends or your family. Invite 4-6 players to gather in a circle around the Jenga tower for equal access to the Jenga blocks. You can also move around the tower during the game.
3. Remove Blocks From The Tower
Once your tower is sturdy and your players are ready, have the first player push and pull a block from the tower. One of the most important Jenga rules is to avoid removing a block from the top three rows of the tower. Jenga instructions suggest that you cautiously wiggle the block free with one hand, careful not to touch the tower with your other hand.
4. Rearrange Your Blocks
After removing your Jenga block, place it on the top row of the tower in the same alternating pattern. One of the next most important Jenga rules is to arrange the block so it’s perpendicular to the blocks on the previous row. This ensures a smooth pattern as the Jenga tower continues to grow taller.
5. Strategize Your Moves
You can easily follow the Jenga rules while still strategizing the game. It's critical to have patience and work slowly as you pull and rearrange the blocks. Cautiously tap the middle blocks to discover which pieces are loose and easiest to remove from their place. Use one or two fingers to slowly wiggle the block free.
6. Play To Win
Rather than trying to build the tallest tower, play strategically to win the game. Take your time when deciding which blocks to pull from the tower. Pay attention to which way the tower is leaning and determine your moves to affect the next player's outcome. The player who successfully places the last block before the tower tumbles wins the game.
Jenga Rules FAQs
What Is Not Allowed In Jenga?
Jenga rules require that players don’t touch the tower with two hands to either pull a block or hold the tower to keep it steady during their turn. If you’re looking for fun games to play with friends, Jenga’s rules are very easy to follow, and the guidelines ensure a thrilling and competitive match with your crew.Â
Can You Take From The Top Three Rows In Jenga?
As mentioned earlier, one of the most important Jenga rules is that you cannot remove a block from one of the top three rows of the tower. This is one of the easiest places to pull a block, and the game requires patience and strategy. You can remove anything below the top three rows for an entertaining game.
Can You Touch Other Blocks In Jenga?
While Jenga rules state that you can't touch other blocks while playing the game, you can lightly tap the pieces to determine which blocks are loose. Jenga instructions advise using the tip of your finger to gently tap the pieces to discover which blocks are easiest to pull. You're also required to completely remove a block once you start pulling it from the tower. Additionally, you can't hold the tower for steadiness while removing your block. To play the game fairly and follow the Jenga rules, lightly tap the blocks with your finger and gently remove one block during your turn.
When learning how to play Jenga, you'll quickly catch on to the easy rules. The Jenga rules are straightforward to follow, allowing for a competitive and thrilling game. In addition to playing with the traditional wooden blocks, you can also write questions on the blocks for Would You Rather or Truth or Dare, evolving the activity into one of the most fun ice breaker games.
Whether you're searching for unique team-building activities or party games for Thanksgiving, Jenga is one of the best games to entertain any crowd. While the game requires patience and strategy, following the Jenga rules helps create a thrilling and entertaining event for any party.
For even more fun ways to bring family and friends closer, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
