How to Play Chapeau Shuffle
Complete rules and tips for playing Celebrities Game, Fishbowl Game, and Salad Bowl
What is Chapeau Shuffle?
Chapeau Shuffle is a fast-paced party game where teams compete to guess as many words as possible through three rounds using different communication styles. Players write words on cards (or use the app), and teams take turns having one player explain, act out, or give one-word clues.
This game is known by many names around the world: Celebrities Game, Fishbowl Game, Salad Bowl Game, Hat Game, and Celebrity.
What You Need
- At least 4 players (the more, the merrier!)
- 2 or more teams with equal players
- The Chapeau Shuffle app or paper and a hat/bowl
- A timer (included in the app)
Game Setup
Divide into Teams
Split players into 2 or more teams with roughly equal numbers. Teams should sit in alternating positions so teammates aren't next to each other.
Prepare Words
Each player contributes words or phrases (traditionally 5-10 per person). In Chapeau Shuffle, you can use pre-made word packs or create your own custom set.
Choose Starting Team
Determine which team goes first. Teams will alternate turns throughout all three rounds.
Round 1: Describe with Words
In the first round, players can use any words to describe the word on their card, except the word itself or words with the same root.
Rules:
- Say as many words as you want to describe the word
- Cannot use the word itself or words with the same root
- Can pass and come back to a word if stuck
Round 2: Act It Out (Charades)
The same words return for round 2, but now players can only use gestures and body language - no sounds or words allowed!
Rules:
- Use only body language and gestures
- No sounds, words, or mouthing words
- Can point to objects but cannot write or draw
Round 3: One Word Only
The final challenge! The same words appear again, but you can only say ONE single word as a clue.
Rules:
- Say only ONE word per card
- Cannot use the word itself or same-root words
- Once you say your word, wait for guesses - no additional clues
Scoring
Scoring is simple and straightforward:
- Each correctly guessed word = 1 point for your team
- Keep score across all three rounds
- The team with the most total points after Round 3 wins!
Pro Tips for Success
- 💡Pay attention in Round 1 - remembering which words appeared helps in later rounds when communication is limited
- 💡For Round 2 (gestures), establish simple signals with your team beforehand (e.g., pointing up for 'sky', circular motion for 'movie')
- 💡In Round 3, use words that trigger strong associations from earlier rounds
- 💡Don't be afraid to pass on difficult words - you can come back to them if time allows
Popular Variations
Make the game your own with these popular rule variations:
- Speed rounds: Use 30-second turns instead of 60 seconds for more intense gameplay
- Themed words: Choose categories like movies, historical figures, or inside jokes
- Four rounds: Add a 'no words, sounds only' round or a 'backwards speaking' round
