Game Overview

Broken Telephone with Headphones is a fun and energetic party game that combines the classic game of broken telephone with the challenge of communicating while listening to music. This game is perfect for large groups and guarantees laughter as the final phrase is often hilariously different from the original.

Objective

The objective of the game is to pass a phrase from the first player to the last player in a line, despite the interference of music in the players’ headphones. The final player then announces the phrase they received, and everyone compares it to the original phrase.

Setup

1. Players: Minimum of 5 players. There is no maximum number of players, but larger groups increase the fun and challenge.
2. Age: Suitable for players aged 10 and above.
3. Equipment Needed:
   • Headphones or earbuds for each player (except the first player)
   • A device to play music on each headphone
   • A list of phrases for the game

Rules

Preparing the Game

1. Arrange the Players: Players should stand in a line facing the back of the player in front of them.
2. Distribute Headphones: All players except the first one should put on headphones or earbuds and start playing music. The volume should be loud enough to prevent them from hearing external sounds clearly.

Playing the Game

1. First Player: The first player receives a phrase from an external source (a game host or a random phrase generator). This player does not wear headphones and should be able to hear and speak clearly.
2. Passing the Phrase:
   • The first player taps the second player on the shoulder to get their attention and then whispers the phrase to them.
   • The second player, while listening to music, tries to hear and understand the phrase. They then tap the third player on the shoulder and whisper what they think they heard.
   • This process continues down the line until the phrase reaches the last player.
3. Final Player: The last player in the line says the phrase they received out loud for everyone to hear.

Concluding the Game

1. Reveal the Original Phrase: The first player or game host reveals the original phrase.
2. Compare and Enjoy: Everyone compares the final phrase to the original one. Enjoy the often hilarious transformations that have occurred along the way!

Tips for a Fun Game

• Choose phrases that are moderately complex and can be easily misinterpreted.
• Encourage players to be expressive with their whispering to add to the challenge.
• Use music genres that have a strong beat or complex melodies to make listening more challenging.

Variations

• Speed Round: Set a time limit for how quickly each player must pass on the phrase.
• Theme Phrases: Use phrases related to a specific theme, such as movies, sports, or famous quotes.
• Multiple Lines: If you have a large group, split into multiple lines and see which line can get the phrase closest to the original.

Enjoy the laughter and fun of Broken Telephone with Headphones!