How to Play
Everything you need to know to start your first game.
The Goal
Imposter is a social deduction game. The goal of the Civilians is to find and eliminate the Imposter. The goal of the Imposter is to survive until the end or guess the secret word.
Roles & Powers
"I know the word, and I'm describing it carefully."
- Sees the secret word clearly.
- Must describe the word without making it too obvious for the Imposter.
- Wins if all Imposters are eliminated.
"I have no idea what the word is, but I'll pretend I do."
- Does NOT see the secret word.
- Must listen to others and give a convincing description to blend in.
- Wins if they survive or if only 2 players remain.
"My word is similar, but not quite the same..."
- Sees a word very similar to the Civilian's word (e.g., Apple vs Pear).
- Must find out who else has the same word or eliminate the other group.
Game Flow
Role Reveal
One phone is passed around. Each player taps to see their word and role. Total secrecy is required!
The Description Circle
A random player starts. Each person gives a ONE-SENTENCE description of their word. No repeats of previous descriptions allowed!
Interrogation & Debate
Everyone discusses who seems suspicious. Why was their description so vague? Why did they sound like they were copying you?
The Vote
On the count of three, everyone points at the person they suspect most. The person with the most votes is eliminated.
How to Win
Civilians Win If...
- • All Imposters are identified and eliminated.
- • Mr. White (if playing) fails to guess the word after being caught.
Imposters Win If...
- • They survive until only 2 players remain.
- • They successfully guess the secret word (in specific modes).
Pro Tips
For Civilians
"Be specific enough to prove you know the word, but vague enough so the Imposter can't guess it."
For Imposters
"Echo others' sentiment without copying their words. If you're going first, pick a broad category description."