How to Play Chameleon
Social deduction word game for 3–8 players
Overview
Each round, a topic card is shown with 16 related words. Everyone knows the secret word — except the Chameleon. Players each give a one-word clue to prove they know the word, then vote on who they think is faking it. The Chameleon tries to blend in without getting caught.
Game Flow
- Role Reveal: Everyone checks their phone. Most players see the secret word. One player sees "You are the Chameleon" — they only know the topic, not the word.
- Give Clues: Each player gives a one-word clue related to the secret word. The trick: your clue must show you know the word without making it too obvious (or the Chameleon will figure it out).
- Discuss: After all clues are revealed, players debate who they think the Chameleon is.
- Vote: Everyone votes on who they think is the Chameleon.
- Last Chance: If the Chameleon is caught, they get one final guess at the secret word. If they guess correctly, they still score!
Scoring
Chameleon escapes (not caught)
Chameleon gets 2 points. Everyone else gets 0.
Chameleon caught, guesses word correctly
Chameleon gets 1 point. Everyone else gets 0.
Chameleon caught, guesses wrong
Everyone else gets 2 points. Chameleon gets 0.
First player to reach the target score (default 5) wins the game.
Clue Modes
Type Clues
Each player types their clue on their phone. All clues are revealed at once after everyone submits. Great for remote play or large groups.
Say Aloud
Players say their clue out loud in person, going around the group. The app handles roles and voting. Just like the original board game!
Tips
- Don't make your clue too obvious — the Chameleon will figure out the word.
- Don't make it too vague either — people might think you're the Chameleon!
- As the Chameleon, listen carefully to other clues to narrow down the word.
- Pay attention to who hesitates or gives a suspiciously generic clue.
- If caught, use all the clues you heard to make your best guess at the word.