Official Rules

Throw Mechanics

Both players face each other, one hand in a loose fist at chest or waist height. The referee (or both players, by mutual agreement) calls the cadence: "Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot!" Both players form and reveal their throw simultaneously on "Shoot." Not before. Not after. On it.

The Three Valid Throws

• Rock - Closed fist. Beats Scissors. The gesture you were already making.
• Paper - Flat, open hand, palm horizontal. Beats Rock. Counterintuitive but correct.
• Scissors - Index and middle fingers extended in a V. Beats Paper. The one that requires effort.

Any other hand shape is illegal in official WRPSA play. No "gun." No "well." No extra fingers. No Lizard. No Spock. The throw must be a clear, unambiguous shape. If there's any doubt about what you threw, it's a problem.

Throw Timing

Both players throw at the same instant on the final cue. During the countdown, keep your hand in a closed fist. Opening or changing your hand shape early is a false start. Delaying your throw to react after seeing your opponent's hand is a late throw, which is one of the most serious fouls in competitive play. It's also one of the most embarrassing ways to lose a match.

Match Format

Best-of Rounds

Standard matches use a best-of-3 format (first to 2 wins). Organizers may use longer formats for later rounds, but the number of rounds is always odd. This guarantees a decisive winner, which is the whole point of having rules.

Round Resolution

• Rock beats Scissors
• Scissors beats Paper
• Paper beats Rock

If both players show the same throw, the round is a tie (stalemate) and is replayed immediately. There is no limit on stalemate replays. We've seen some go on for a while. It's fine. Everyone's having a good time.

Winning

The player who wins the majority of rounds wins the match. A 2-0 or 2-1 wins a best-of-3. Once one player reaches the majority, the match ends immediately. No victory laps required.

Legal and Illegal Throws

Only Rock, Paper, and Scissors. That's the whole list. Some specifics:

• Paper clarity: Open hand must be horizontal (palm down). A vertical "handshake" position doesn't count. It has to look like Paper, not a greeting.
• Scissors clarity: Must clearly show a two-finger V. Any ambiguous or partially closed hand is disallowed. Commit to the V.
• Visibility: Your throw must be fully visible to your opponent and the referee. Hiding your hand or using clothing to obscure the throw results in a replay or foul. We shouldn't have to say this, but here we are.

"Dynamite," "Lizard," "Spock," and novelty gestures are banned from official competition. Fun variations exist, but they are not part of the WRPSA ruleset. This is the three-throw game. We committed.

Fouls and Penalties

In extreme cases (physical aggression, confirmed cheating, blatant harassment), the referee may declare an immediate match forfeit or tournament disqualification. Don't be that person.

Tournament Structure

Bracket Formats

WRPSA events use standard tournament brackets. Most are single-elimination, though organizers may use double-elimination, Swiss rounds, or group stages feeding into a knockout bracket. The format is announced before the event so nobody is surprised. Surprises belong in the throws, not the brackets.

Advancement

In elimination brackets, winners advance. In group or Swiss play, players advance by points or standings. Ties are broken by head-to-head record or additional RPS throws, which feels right.

Because each match uses an odd number of rounds and ties are replayed, there is no need for a separate sudden death mechanic. The game handles its own drama.

Judging and Appeals

Referee Authority

A certified WRPSA referee oversees each competitive match. The referee enforces rules, calls fouls, and determines the winner of each round. Their ruling is final during play. You can disagree, but you'll be disagreeing quietly.

Appeals

A player who believes a serious rule violation occurred may file a formal protest immediately after the match. Tournament officials review evidence (video, witnesses, device logs) and may overturn results only for clear rule breaches. Subjective complaints generally do not change outcomes. "I had a feeling" is not evidence.

Code of Conduct

• Sportsmanship: Be respectful. No excessive trash talk, insults, intimidation, or physical contact. This is a hand game. Keep it classy.
• No delaying: Keep the match moving. Stalling draws penalties. Nobody came here to watch you think.
• Visible throws: Hands must be free and visible. No gloves, props, or clothing that could obscure the throw. Smart devices (earpieces, smartwatches) are banned. It's your hand against their hand. That's it.
• Consequences: Minor misconduct earns warnings. Serious or repeated violations lead to round loss, match forfeit, or tournament disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rock Paper Scissors really a sport?

Yes. At the competitive level, RPS involves pattern recognition, psychology, and real-time decision-making under pressure. The WRPSA has run professional tournaments since 2015 with structured brackets, certified referees, and Elo-based rankings. It's a sport. We understand if you need a moment.

What happens if both players throw the same thing?

It's a tie. The round is replayed immediately. No limit on replays. Eventually someone will blink.

Can I use Lizard or Spock?

Not in official WRPSA competition. Only Rock, Paper, and Scissors are legal. See RPS Variations for when you want more chaos.

How do I enter a tournament?

Create a free WRPSA account, then browse upcoming tournaments and register directly. Bring your hand. Leave your doubts at home.