Quick Summary
The 30 Seconds game is a fast-paced description game played by teams. The objective is to be the first team to reach the FINISH square by correctly identifying the names that their team-mates are describing. The game involves dividing into teams, selecting tokens, and rolling the die to determine the starting team. During gameplay, teams take turns being describers and identifiers, with the die roll determining their advancement. The game has gained international acclaim and has a junior version available.
Introduction
The 30 Seconds game is a fast-paced description game played by teams. The objective of the game is for each team to be the first to move their token from start to finish around the board. The game is played with two or more teams, and each round consists of one player picking a card and having 30 seconds to describe five objects, people, or places without revealing the card or saying any part of the name.
Game Setup
Before starting the 30 Seconds game, you need to set up the game by following these steps:
Dividing into Teams
The game is played with two or more teams. Divide the players into equal teams. It is recommended to have at least two players per team, but you can have more depending on the number of participants.
Selecting Tokens
Each team needs to select a token to represent them on the game board. Tokens can be any small object or game piece that is easily distinguishable. Make sure each team has a unique token to avoid confusion during gameplay.
Determining the Starting Team
To determine the starting team, roll the die provided with the game. The team with the highest number on the die roll goes first. If there is a tie, those teams can roll again until a starting team is determined.
Once the starting team is established, you are ready to begin playing the 30 Seconds game. Remember to have fun and enjoy the exciting and fast-paced gameplay!
Gameplay
In the 30 Seconds game, gameplay revolves around the teams taking turns being describers and identifiers. Here’s how the gameplay unfolds:
Rolling the Die
At the start of a team’s turn, the die is rolled. The number rolled on the die determines the handicap for that turn.
Identifying Names
The describer from the team selects a card and describes the five words on the card to their team without using any part of the name or revealing the card. The describer can use any description tactics they wish, but they cannot say the actual names on the card or use any ‘sounds-like’ or ‘rhymes-with’ tactics.
The rest of the team acts as identifiers and shout out their guesses based on the describer’s clues. The opposing team keeps track of the timer.
Advancement and Scoring
For each correctly identified name, the team advances one square on the game board. However, the number rolled on the die is subtracted from the number of names correctly identified to determine the team’s actual advancement for that turn.
The game continues with each team taking turns being describers and identifiers, and advancing on the board based on their correct identifications minus the handicap.
Game End
The game ends when a team reaches the FINISH square on the game board. The first team to reach the FINISH square wins the game.
Rules for Three Players
Playing the 30 Seconds game with three players requires some modifications to the standard rules. Here are the specific rules for playing with three players:
- Divide into two teams: In a three-player game, one player will act as the describer while the other two players form a team of identifiers.
- Select tokens: Each player should select a token to represent their team on the game board.
- Starting team: Determine the starting team by rolling the die. The player with the highest roll will be the describer for the first round.
- Gameplay: The describer will draw a card and describe the five words on the card without using any part of the name or revealing the card. The two identifier players will shout out their guesses.
- Scoring: The opposing team keeps track of the timer and determines the number of correct answers. The team’s advancement is calculated by subtracting the number rolled on the die from the number of correct answers.
- Rotation: After each round, rotate the roles so that each player gets a chance to be the describer.
- Winning the game: The first team to reach the FINISH square wins the game.
Playing with three players adds a different dynamic to the game, as the describer will have to be strategic in their descriptions to ensure their team can guess the words correctly. The rotation of roles also allows each player to experience both the describing and identifying aspects of the game.
History and International Acclaim
The 30 Seconds game was created by Calie Esterhuyse in South Africa in 1998. It was first published in the country and quickly gained popularity among players of all ages. The game’s unique concept and fast-paced gameplay made it a hit among board game enthusiasts.
Since its initial release, 30 Seconds has achieved international acclaim and has been translated into multiple languages. The game’s success has allowed it to reach players around the world, bringing joy and excitement to countless households.
Today, 30 Seconds is available for sale in various countries, making it accessible to a wide audience. Some of the countries where the game can be purchased include the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, England, France, the USA, and Ireland. Its availability in multiple regions demonstrates the game’s global appeal and popularity.
Junior Version
For younger players or those who prefer a more simplified version of the game, there is a junior version of 30 Seconds available. This version is designed to be more accessible and enjoyable for children.
The objective of the junior version remains the same as the original game – to be the first team to move their token from start to finish around the board. However, the gameplay is slightly modified to suit younger players.
In the junior version, players still divide into teams and select tokens to represent their team. Each round begins with one player picking a card and having 30 seconds to describe the word or phrase on the card without revealing it or saying any part of the name. The aim is for their teammates to guess the correct word or phrase within the time limit.
Unlike the original version, the junior version may include simpler words or phrases that are more suitable for children. The clues provided by the describer may also be adjusted to be more age-appropriate and easier to understand.
Just like in the original game, the team’s token moves forward based on the number of correct answers given by the identifiers. The first team to reach the finish square wins the game.
The junior version of 30 Seconds is a great way to introduce younger players to the concept of the game and help them develop their vocabulary and descriptive skills in a fun and engaging way.
Clues and Descriptions
In the 30 Seconds game, the clues provided by the describers are generally short and focus on synonyms and associations. The objective is to give hints that will help the identifiers guess the correct word within the time limit.
It is important to note that describers are not allowed to use any part of the name of the word they are describing. This means they cannot say the actual name on the card or use any ‘sounds-like’ or ‘rhymes-with’ tactics. The challenge lies in finding creative ways to describe the word without giving away its name directly.
The restriction on revealing the card or using any part of the name adds an element of difficulty and excitement to the game. It requires the describers to think quickly and come up with clever clues that will lead their team to the correct answer.
By focusing on synonyms and associations, the describers can provide hints that are related to the word without explicitly stating it. This encourages the identifiers to think critically and make connections between the clues and the possible answers.
Overall, the clues and descriptions in the 30 Seconds game require both creativity and strategic thinking. It is a test of communication skills and the ability to convey information effectively within a limited timeframe.
Origins of the Game
The 30 Seconds game was invented by Calie Esterhuyse, a game designer from South Africa. The idea for the game originated from a game played by tennis player Marius Barnard and a group of people while on holiday.
During their holiday, Barnard and his friends played a game where one person would describe a word or phrase without using any part of the name, and the others had to guess what it was. This simple yet entertaining game caught the attention of Esterhuyse, who saw the potential to turn it into a full-fledged board game.
Esterhuyse took the concept and developed it into what is now known as the 30 Seconds game. He refined the rules, added a timer, and created a game board to enhance the gameplay experience. The game was first published in South Africa in 1998 and quickly gained popularity among players of all ages.
Since its creation, the 30 Seconds game has become a beloved classic and has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Its success can be attributed to the simple yet engaging gameplay, which allows players to test their knowledge and communication skills in a fun and competitive setting.
Irish Edition
The 30 Seconds game has gained immense popularity in Ireland since the launch of its first Irish edition in 2010. Irish players have embraced the fast-paced and exciting nature of the game, making it a favorite choice for game nights and gatherings.
With its easy-to-understand rules and engaging gameplay, the Irish edition of 30 Seconds has become a staple in many Irish households. Families and friends come together to test their knowledge and communication skills while having a great time.
Whether it’s a casual get-together or a competitive game night, the Irish edition of 30 Seconds provides endless entertainment for players of all ages. Its popularity has spread across the country, making it a must-have addition to any board game collection.
The success of the Irish edition can be attributed to the game’s ability to bring people together and create memorable moments. The fast-paced nature of the game keeps players on their toes, ensuring an exciting and enjoyable experience every time.
So, if you’re in Ireland and looking for a fun and engaging game to play with your family and friends, look no further than the Irish edition of 30 Seconds. Join the countless players who have already fallen in love with this thrilling description game and get ready for hours of laughter and friendly competition.
References
- https://www.ultraboardgames.com/30-seconds/game-rules.php
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/30_Seconds_(game)
- https://www.exclusivebooks.co.za/product/6001651008005
