| Players | 2 or more |
|---|---|
| Chance | Medium |
| Age range | 10 and up |
| Skills | General Knowledge, Speed Reading |
Wikiwars is a strategy game played online using the Wikipedia website. The game requires a minimum of two players, each with a computer and internet access. The object of the game is to navigate from a predetermined Wikipedia article open in their web browser to another Wikipedia article using only the hyperlinks contained within Wikipedia articles. The article the players must navigate to can be determined by the players or a third person.
The game rose to prominence when a viral video was posted to the YouTube website by The Gregory Brothers, of the band members playing the game.
Rules
editA player may only use the hyperlinks contained within an article. They cannot use the menus provided on a Wikipedia page or the Wikipedia search function. A player cannot use the "Back' function on a web browser if they are unsatisfied with the page that opens after they click on a hyperlink, but must instead continue to 'move forward' using the hyperlinks available. A player may use the 'Find' option within a web browser to search for a specific hyperlink within the article. Players can confirm a players route to the determined article by using the web browser 'Back' function.
Strategy
editGeneral knowledge is an asset in Wikiwars, as it can aid a person in finding the fastest route to the requested article. Using the 'Find' option within a web browser allows the player to search for a specific hyperlink they may have in mind. Many players use geographical locations to quickly access any given subject.
Variants
editWikiwars Swap is a variant of Wikiwars in which two players open a random Wikipedia article. Once ready, they players announce the page they have open in their browser. The opposite player must then navigate to the other players page using the available hyperlinks, effectively swapping Wikipedia articles. This version of the game can be played with three or more players, in which each player takes the article of the person on their right hand side.
External links
edit- WikiWars turns Wikipedia searches into a competitive sport on the LA Times website.
- WikiWars - Evan vs. Michael viral video on the YouTube website.