What Are You Doing? A Hilarious Social Deduction Game for Any Gathering!

Prepare to unleash your inner chameleon and embrace the art of deception with “What Are You Doing?”, a wonderfully chaotic social deduction game perfect for any gathering, from intimate gatherings to boisterous parties. This gem, designed by the creative minds at Exploding Kittens, throws you into a world of secret identities and outrageous charades, guaranteeing laughter, suspense, and unforgettable moments.

At its core, “What Are You Doing?” revolves around a simple yet deceptively clever premise. Players are assigned hidden roles: some are innocent citizens attempting to decipher the truth, while others are cunning spies aiming to blend in and sow discord. The gameplay unfolds through rounds of prompts where one player must act out a phrase without speaking, relying solely on gestures, expressions, and exaggerated movements.

The twist? Everyone else tries to guess what they’re doing! But here’s the catch – spies can lie about their actions, leading to hilarious misinterpretations and escalating confusion. Innocent players must work together to expose the deceitful spies while navigating a whirlwind of absurd scenarios.

Unmasking the Mechanics: A Look at Gameplay

Let’s delve into the mechanics that make “What Are You Doing?” so addictive and entertaining.

Role Assignment: At the start, each player receives a secret role card. Citizens are tasked with identifying the spies, while spies must successfully deceive the group.
Prompt Cards: A deck of prompt cards fuels the action. Each card features a phrase or scenario that the active player must act out non-verbally. Examples include “Brushing your teeth with a toothbrush made of spaghetti” or “Riding a rollercoaster while juggling flaming bowling pins.”
Guessing and Accusations: After observing the performance, everyone else discusses their interpretation and tries to guess the action. Citizens aim for accuracy, hoping to spot spies who offer misleading interpretations. Spies, on the other hand, must cleverly weave a convincing narrative that aligns with the prompt while hiding their true identity.
Spy Elimination: If a player is correctly identified as a spy, they are eliminated from the game. The last remaining spy wins the round, demonstrating mastery of deception and theatrical prowess.
Adding Spice: Optional Rules

“Reverse Spy” Role: This variation introduces a “reverse spy” who acts as a citizen but secretly tries to sabotage the group by leading them astray.
“Time Limit” Challenge: Add a time constraint for acting out prompts, intensifying the pressure and forcing quick thinking.

The Themes that Bind: Deception, Laughter, and Social Connection

“What Are You Doing?” transcends mere gameplay; it explores fundamental themes that resonate with players of all backgrounds:

Deception: The game thrives on the thrill of misdirection and clever subterfuge. Spies must hone their acting skills to convincingly blend in while citizens employ logic and observation to pierce through the veil of deceit. This constant push and pull between truth and falsehood creates a captivating dynamic.
Laughter: Prepare for uproarious laughter as players attempt bizarre actions and fumble through hilarious interpretations. “What Are You Doing?” is designed to embrace absurdity and encourage uninhibited silliness, making it a perfect icebreaker and mood booster.
Social Connection: At its heart, the game fosters social interaction and connection. Players must communicate, collaborate, and strategize together, forging bonds over shared experiences and laughter.

Production Features: A Feast for the Senses

“What Are You Doing?” stands out not only for its engaging gameplay but also for its thoughtful production features that enhance the player experience.

Sleek Design: The game boasts a clean, modern aesthetic with vibrant artwork and easy-to-understand card layouts.
Durable Components: High-quality cards and a sturdy box ensure long-lasting enjoyment and durability even with frequent play sessions.
Accessible Rules:

The rulebook is concise and clearly written, making it easy for new players to grasp the mechanics quickly and dive into the fun without unnecessary complexities.

A Game for Everyone: Adaptability and Inclusivity

“What Are You Doing?” shines because of its adaptability. The game caters to a wide range of ages and playstyles. Younger players can enjoy simpler prompts and focus on the silliness, while older players can delve deeper into strategic deception and social dynamics.

The Verdict: A Must-Have for Your Game Collection

“What Are You Doing?” is an absolute gem in the world of party games. Its unique blend of deception, laughter, and social interaction makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a fun icebreaker at a larger event, this game is sure to deliver unforgettable moments.

Prepare to unleash your inner actor, embrace the chaos, and experience the thrill of “What Are You Doing?”!