Best Rock Paper Scissors Variations (Lizard, Spock, More)
Want to make Rock Paper Scissors more exciting? Here are the most popular and creative variations of the classic game, including the famous Lizard–Spock version and many fun alternatives.
🦎🖖 1. Rock Paper Scissors Lizard Spock
Popularized by the TV show The Big Bang Theory, this variation adds two new elements:
- 🦎 Lizard poisons Spock and eats Paper
- 🖖 Spock smashes Scissors and vaporizes Rock
This version reduces ties and adds more strategy while keeping the game fun and unpredictable.
🔥✊ 2. Rock Paper Scissors Fire
This version introduces a powerful fourth element — Fire. Fire burns Paper, melts Scissors, and heats Rock, but loses to Water (if added).
💧✋ 3. Rock Paper Scissors Water
Water is added to balance Fire. It rusts Scissors, erodes Rock, but Paper floats on Water and wins.
🌟 4. Five-Element Version
A popular extended variation includes:
- ✊ Rock
- 📄 Paper
- ✂️ Scissors
- 🔥 Fire
- 💧 Water
Each symbol has two wins and two losses, making the game more balanced and strategic.
🌍 5. Variations Around the World
- Indonesia: Elephant, Human, Ant
- Japan: “Jan-Ken” style with different gestures
- Korea: “Muk-Ji-Ppa” includes a follow-up phase
These versions add cultural flavor and unique gameplay twists.
🧒 6. Fun Variations for Kids
- 🦁 Lion, 🐐 Goat, 🐘 Elephant
- 🧙 Wizard, 🐉 Dragon, 🛡 Knight
- 🌞 Sun, 🌧 Rain, 🌳 Tree
Kids love creative and themed variations that spark imagination.
🎮 7. Why Try These Variations?
- They reduce ties
- Add strategy and variety
- Great for parties, classrooms, and family games
- Fun for both kids and adults