Butts Up

In some variants of the game, a player who is "out" three times must stand against the wall

Butts Up is a popular children's game played in various countries around the world, with numerous variations in name and gameplay. It is primarily known as a playground or street game, involving a ball and a wall, and is played by children of all ages. The game is known by many other names, such as "Wall Ball," "Suicide," "Ball Tag," and "Sting," among others. The objective and rules of Butts Up can vary significantly, but the game generally involves players throwing a ball against a wall in such a way that it is difficult for other players to catch or retrieve it on the rebound without the ball bouncing more than once.

Gameplay

The basic premise of Butts Up involves players taking turns throwing a ball against a wall. If a player fails to catch the ball cleanly (i.e., without the ball bouncing more than once or without dropping it) after it rebounds off the wall, that player must run and touch the wall before another player retrieves the ball and throws it at the wall. If the ball reaches the wall before the player does, the player receives a letter, typically starting with "B" for the first miss, "U" for the second, and so on, until the word "BUTTS" is spelled out. Once a player spells "BUTTS," they are required to stand facing the wall, while other players take turns throwing the ball at their buttocks. The severity and specific rules around this penalty vary among different groups of players.

Variations

There are many variations of Butts Up, which may include differences in the number of bounces allowed before a player must catch the ball, the method of throwing the ball, or the penalties for failing to catch the ball. Some versions allow for "tricks" or "combos," where players perform specific throws or catches to make the game more challenging for their opponents. The game can be adapted to include elements of dodgeball, where players can be "out" if hit by the ball under certain conditions.

Safety and Equipment

The only equipment required to play Butts Up is a ball, typically a rubber ball or tennis ball, and a solid wall. The game is often played on playgrounds, in schoolyards, or against the walls of buildings. Safety is a concern, as the game involves throwing and dodging balls, and sometimes running into walls. It is recommended that the game be played in a safe, open area away from traffic and other hazards.

Cultural Impact

Butts Up is more than just a children's game; it is a part of youth culture in many areas. It has been a staple of playground games for generations, fostering social interaction, physical activity, and strategic thinking among children. The game's simplicity and the minimal equipment required have contributed to its enduring popularity.

See Also

• Dodgeball
• Kickball
• Four Square