Rock Paper Scissors
First to three wins against the computer.
First to 3
You
0
Computer
0
How to play Rock Paper Scissors
Goal: Win three rounds before the computer does.
- 1Rock beats scissors.
- 2Scissors beats paper.
- 3Paper beats rock.
- 4Matching picks are a tie and nobody scores.
On a computer
Click rock, paper or scissors
On a phone
Tap rock, paper or scissors
Play Rock Paper Scissors free against the computer. First to three wins.
About Rock Paper Scissors
Rock Paper Scissors is the classic hand game. Rock beats scissors, scissors beats paper and paper beats rock. Pick a move, the computer picks one at the same time, and the winner of the round scores. First to three wins the match.
The game has roots in East Asia going back centuries and is now used around the world to settle small decisions. Our free version is a quick best of five style match against the computer with drawn rock, paper and scissors art.
It takes under a minute, which makes it a perfect tiny break. Tap a move on your phone or click on a computer.
Rock Paper Scissors is famous as a fair way to decide things, because each move beats one move and loses to another. It is also a popular example in game theory, where it shows why mixing your choices randomly is the safest strategy. Playing a quick match is a light, fun break that needs no thinking time. Arcade Pantry is free to play with no sign up and no download. Your best results are saved only in your own browser.
Rock Paper Scissors tips and strategy
- Our computer chooses its moves at random, so no pattern can beat it in the long run.
- Against people, many players open with rock. Paper is a common counter.
- People who just lost often switch to the move that would have beaten them. Watch for it.
- Do not overthink it. Against random play, every move has the same odds.
- Matching picks are a tie and nobody scores.
Rock Paper Scissors FAQ
Is there a strategy to win Rock Paper Scissors?
Against a random computer, no move is better than another. Against people, watching their habits can help.
How many rounds does a match last?
A match ends when you or the computer reaches three round wins.
What happens on a tie?
If both pick the same move, nobody scores and you play another round.
Does the computer cheat?
No. It picks its move at random at the same time as you.
Is Rock Paper Scissors free to play?
Yes. It is free in any browser with no download.
Can I play with a friend?
Our game is played against the computer, but you can take turns playing matches and compare who wins more.