How Do You Play Shotgun the Road Trip?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re about to embark on a road trip with friends, family, or colleagues, you may want to consider playing a classic game called “Shotgun”. This game is not only a great way to pass the time but also an excellent opportunity to determine who gets the coveted front seat. In this article, we’ll go over the rules and variations of Shotgun and how to play it.

What is Shotgun?

Shotgun is a game that’s played before getting into a car. The goal of the game is to be the first person to call out “Shotgun” and claim the front passenger seat. The rules are simple, but there are some variations that you should be aware of.

The Basic Rules

The basic rules of Shotgun are straightforward. To play this game, all participants must be outside of the car.

Once outside, one person calls out “Shotgun,” indicating their desire to sit in the front passenger seat. If two or more people shout “Shotgun” at the same time, then it’s up to them to decide who gets the seat through an agreed-upon method, such as rock-paper-scissors.

Variations

Of course, there are variations of Shotgun that can make it more interesting and challenging. Here are some popular variants:

  • Reverse Shotgun: In this variation, everyone calls out “Shotgun,” but whoever calls it last wins.
  • Quiet Shotgun: No shouting allowed! Participants must use hand signals or subtle gestures instead.
  • Countdown Shotgun: The driver counts down from three while everyone else silently thinks about calling shotgun. Whoever says it after “one” loses.

Tips for Playing Shotgun

  • Be fair: If you’ve already had the front seat on the same trip, it’s only fair to let someone else have a turn.
  • Don’t cheat: If you’re caught cheating, you’ll lose all credibility in future games. Plus, cheating is just plain wrong.
  • Be prepared: It’s always a good idea to have your seat belt on and be ready to go as soon as you get in the car.

Conclusion

Playing Shotgun is a fun way to start any road trip and can add some friendly competition among friends or family. Remember to follow the basic rules and be fair, even if you’re really eager to sit in the front seat. And don’t forget to enjoy the ride!