Moose is a fast, silly reaction game that needs nothing but a group paying attention. It works like a chain reaction: someone makes the moose sign, it passes around, and the person who reacts last or fumbles the gesture has to drink. Great as a quick game between bigger ones.
Moose at a glance
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Players | 4 or more |
| You need | Nothing but drinks |
| Type | Reaction and gesture game |
| Best for | Pre-drinks, quick rounds |
Chaos
3/5
Difficulty
1/5
Buzz level
3/5
Setup effort
1/5
Our take, 1 (low) to 5 (high).
What you will need to play
You do not need much to get going, but a few cheap staples make the night run smoother. Here is the kit we reach for.
How to play
- Learn the sign. Put your thumbs to your temples with fingers spread, the moose antlers.
- Start the chain. One player makes the antlers at another player across the table.
- React fast. The player they aim at must make the antlers back, and the two players either side of that person must slap the table (or make fins).
- Last to react drinks. Whoever is slowest, or does the wrong gesture, takes a drink.
- Pass it on and pick up the pace.
Pro tips
- Speed it up. The faster the chain, the more mistakes and the more fun.
- Watch the neighbours. Half the game is reacting when the person next to you is targeted.
- Agree the gestures first. There are variations, so lock yours in before you start.
Antlers up, and the last one to moose takes the drink.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Zero equipment, plays anywhere
- Fast filler between bigger games
- Gets funnier the quicker it goes
Cons
- Needs everyone paying attention
- Gesture variations can cause confusion
Related games
Frequently asked questions
How do you play the Moose drinking game?
Players make a moose antlers gesture at each other in a chain. The targeted player and their neighbours must react with the right gesture. The slowest to react, or anyone who fumbles it, drinks.
Do you need anything to play?
No. Moose needs nothing but a group and drinks, which makes it a great filler game anywhere.
