Fake Artist

Objective

Everyone takes turns adding one stroke to a shared drawing of a secret word, except the Fake Artist, who only knows the category and has to blend in. Spot the faker, or draw well enough to hide.

How to play

1. Everyone sees the category. Everyone except the Fake Artist also sees the secret word.
2. In turn, each player adds exactly one stroke to the shared canvas, each in their own colour. A missed turn is skipped.
3. After a couple of laps, everyone votes for who they think the Fake Artist is.
4. The Fake Artist is caught only with strictly more votes than anyone else. A tie lets them escape.
5. A caught Fake Artist gets one guess at the secret word. A right guess steals the win.

Scoring

Faker not caught: +3 for the Faker. Caught but guesses the word: +2 for the Faker. Caught and wrong: +2 for every real artist. Anyone who voted for the Faker also gets +1.

Example round

1. The category is Animals. Everyone but one player sees the word 'Giraffe'.
2. Turn by turn each player adds a single stroke: a long vertical line, a spot, a tall neck.
3. The Fake Artist has no idea, so they add a stroke that could fit almost anything.
4. Everyone votes. If the faker gets strictly the most votes they are caught, but still get one guess at the word.

Strategy tips

• As an artist, draw something that proves you know the word without making it obvious to the faker.
• As the Fake Artist, copy the shape that earlier strokes are building and add something safe.
• Watch whose strokes feel hesitant or generic when it is their turn.

Best with

Best with 5 to 10 players. It works with 3 or 4, but the faker is easy to spot. Great for parties, family evenings and team events, with no drawing skill needed.

Variations

• Play one lap for a quick round or three laps for a richer drawing.
• Shorten the turn clock for a frantic game.

FAQ