Never have I ever

Never Have I Ever is a popular party game that involves players taking turns to share something they have never done before. The game is often played to get to know people better and can lead to humorous, revealing, or surprising revelations. It is commonly played among teenagers and young adults, but it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The game has various alternative names and can be adapted with different rules to suit the group's preferences.

Gameplay

The basic premise of Never Have I Ever involves players sitting in a circle, with one person starting the game by saying a statement starting with "Never have I ever..." followed by an action or experience they have never done. For example, a player might say, "Never have I ever been skydiving." The other players who have done the action mentioned must then perform a predetermined action, which can vary depending on the version of the game being played. Common responses include taking a sip of a drink, putting down a finger if playing the "Ten Fingers" version, or placing a coin in a jar.

The game can be played with or without alcohol, making it versatile for different settings and age groups. When played as a drinking game, it often leads to increased openness as the game progresses.

Variations

There are several variations of Never Have I Ever, including:

• Ten Fingers: Also known as "Ten Fingers Down," players start with ten fingers raised and lower one finger each time they have done something mentioned by another player. The last person with fingers remaining is the winner.
• Pointing Game: In this variation, when someone says something they have never done, other players point to the person they believe has done it. This version can lead to laughter and surprises as assumptions come to light.
• Drinking Game: Typically played by adults, players take a sip of their drink if they have done the action mentioned. This version can become more revealing as players consume more alcohol.

Strategy

While there is no winning strategy for Never Have I Ever since the game is more about sharing and entertainment than competition, players often think strategically about which statements to make. The goal can be to reveal interesting facts about oneself, to learn secrets about friends, or simply to make others laugh. Some players may choose statements they believe will catch out most of their friends, while others might select more unique experiences to share something personal about themselves.

Cultural Impact

Never Have I Ever has become a staple in pop culture, often featured in movies, television shows, and social media where characters or individuals use the game to bond or create comedic moments. Its simplicity and adaptability have made it a favorite across the globe, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers.

See Also

• Truth or Dare
• Spin the Bottle
• Drinking games