Werewolf is a popular social deduction game where villagers try to identify the hidden werewolves before the werewolves remove them from the game. It works for friend groups, youth groups, large parties, or any gathering where players enjoy bluffing, strategy, and group discussion. Here is how to play.
Materials You Need
- Slips of paper or cards for each role
- One moderator or narrator
- A group of at least eight players
Julia Kuznetsova
Role Setup
The standard game includes these roles:
- Werewolves: One or two players who secretly work together
- Seer: A villager who can learn one person’s alignment each night
- Villagers: The majority of the group with no special abilities
For larger groups, you may add roles, but the basic version works well when learning.
Assigning Roles
The moderator hands out slips or cards with roles written on them. Players look at their roles in secret and do not show anyone else.
How the Game Works
Night Phase
Players close their eyes. The moderator calls for roles one at a time:
- Werewolves: Open your eyes and silently choose a player to eliminate.
- Seer: Choose one player to learn their identity. The moderator signals whether that person is a werewolf.
Once all actions are completed, players close their eyes again and the moderator moves to the day phase.
Day Phase
The moderator announces who was eliminated during the night. That player is removed from the game.
The group then discusses who they believe is a werewolf. Players can share theories, defend themselves, or cast suspicion on others. After discussion, the group votes to eliminate a suspect.
Play alternates between night and day until the game ends.
How to Win
- Werewolves win when they equal or outnumber the remaining villagers.
- Villagers win when both werewolves are eliminated.
Optional Roles
- Witch: Can save or eliminate one player using two single-use potions.
- Hunter: Eliminates one person if the Hunter is removed.
- Bodyguard: Protects a player each night.
- Cupid: Binds two players as lovers who share the same fate.
Tips for Playing Werewolf
- Choose a moderator who can keep the story moving.
- Keep night phases short to maintain energy.
- Players should avoid revealing roles directly to keep the game fair.
- Encourage creative arguments and bluffing.
- Use simple roles when teaching new players.
