Rock Paper Scissors Across Different Cultures
While Rock Paper Scissors seems universal, different cultures have developed unique variations in hand signals, counting rhythms, and even the objects represented. This global journey reveals how a simple game adapts across borders.
Origins and Early History
The earliest known version dates back to Chinese Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD), called "shoushiling" (hand command):
Fist (Hammer)
Hand (Cloth)
Two Fingers (Scissors)
This spread to Japan as "jan-ken" by the 17th century, then worldwide through trade routes.
Regional Variations
Japan: Janken
"Jan-ken-pon!" count
- Played with "rock, scissors, paper" order (ใฐใผ, ใใงใญ, ใใผ)
- Used to decide everything from who goes first to serious disputes
- Often accompanied by elaborate pre-throw movements
- Special versions exist for different regions and occasions
Brazil: Pedra, Papel e Tesoura
"Jo-ken-pรด!" count
- Uses same objects but different counting rhythm
- Often played with three counts then throw on fourth beat
- Children's version may include "well" (paper covers well, rock falls in)
- Regional slang terms for the objects vary
Korea: Kai Bai Bo
"Ga-wi, Ba-wi, Bo!" count
- Order is scissors-rock-paper (reverse of Western version)
- Often played faster with abbreviated counting
- Used in popular variety shows and drinking games
- Special tournament versions with teams exist
Cultural Significance
In Japan, janken determines everything from classroom order to business decisions. Brazilian children use it to resolve playground disputes, while Korean adults often incorporate it into drinking games. The game's simplicity makes it a universal conflict-resolution tool.
Unique Global Variations
Germany: Schnick, Schnack, Schnuck
- Name mimics the sound of scissors cutting
- Counting: "Schnick, Schnack, Schnuck" (throw on Schnuck)
- Sometimes includes "Brunnen" (well) as fourth option
- Used in children's games nationwide
Indonesia: Suit
- Called "Hom Pim Pa" or "Suit"
- Often played with additional chant before throwing
- Used to determine who buys snacks in group settings
- Regional variations in counting style
Malaysia: Batu Seremban
- Incorporates traditional counting rhymes
- Sometimes played with five objects instead of three
- Used in traditional children's games
- Distinct hand movements during count
France: Pierre-Papier-Ciseaux
- Counting: "Pierre... Papier... Ciseaux... Shoot!"
- Schoolyard version may include "puits" (well)
- Used in casual decision-making
- Distinct throwing motion compared to other countries