Octopus Tag - Rules & variants - Party Games 4 Kids

Octopus tag, also known as Blob, is a fun and exciting game to play with kids at parties, gatherings, or during recess. It is a fun outdoor game for kids to play with their friends. It is a classic game that has been enjoyed by children for generations. There are also variations of the game to add more challenge and excitement. Grab the kids and head outside for some fun!

Game sheet

Number of players: from 6 children
Ages: from 6 years old
Supplies: The game doesn’t require any special equipment or supplies. All you need is an open play area where the kids can run around freely.
Played outdoors
Play time: about 20 min

Octopus Tag basic rules

Choose one player to be the “Blob” or “Octopus” and have them stand in the middle of the playing area.
The remaining players start on one end of the playing area and try to run to the other end without being tagged by the Blob.
When a player is tagged by the Blob, they join hands with the Blob and become part of the Blob.
The Blob grows bigger as more players are tagged, making it harder for the remaining players to run past.
The game continues until all players have been tagged and join the Blob, or until a predetermined time limit is reached.
The last player to be tagged becomes the Blob in the next round.

Detailed Rules

Choose a playing area that is large enough for the number of players participating. The playing area should be marked with boundaries to prevent players from running out of bounds.
Designate one player to be the first Blob, and have them stand in the middle of the playing area. The remaining players start on one end of the playing area.
When the game begins, the players on one end of the playing area try to run to the other end without being tagged by the Blob. The Blob must stay in the middle of the playing area and cannot cross the boundary lines.
When a player is tagged by the Blob, they join hands with the Blob and become part of the Blob. The player who was tagged last becomes the Blob’s “head.”
The Blob grows bigger and stronger as more players are tagged, making it harder for the remaining players to run past. The Blob can stretch its arms out to try and tag players who are out of reach.
The game continues until all players have been tagged and join the Blob, or until a predetermined time limit is reached.
The last player to be tagged becomes the Blob in the next round.

Variants

One-Handed Blob: The Blob can only use one hand to tag players, making it slightly easier for the remaining players to run past.
Multiple Blobs: Divide players into two or more teams, each with their own Blob. The last team standing wins.
Blob with Eyes: The Blob must keep their eyes closed or blindfolded while trying to tag players. This adds an extra challenge and can be fun for players who like to sneak past the Blob.
Reverse Blob: Instead of players joining the Blob when they are tagged, they are out of the game. The last player standing becomes the Blob in the next round.
Pass the Blob: Players must pass the Blob to each other without being tagged. If a player is tagged, they become the Blob.

Safety

The playing area should be clear of obstacles and hazards to prevent injuries.
Players should avoid using excessive force when tagging or trying to avoid being tagged to prevent injuries.
The Blob should avoid using excessive force when tagging players to prevent injuries.
Players should wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls.
If playing on a hard surface, consider using a soft landing area to prevent injuries.