Playing 'Never Have I Ever' — How to Have a Fun Time

'Never Have I Ever...' is truly an entertaining way to engage and learn more about your acquaintances or old friends. You can opt for the basic version of the game, which is suitable for all ages, or play the adult version if only those of legal drinking age are present. Remember, if you choose the adult version, be careful with how much you drink and do not drive after the game.

Basic Version of the Game

Step 1. Gather at least 5 players and form a circle.

Gather at least 5 participants and stand in a circle. While you can play with fewer players, the more, the merrier! It’s important that everyone can see each other’s hands.

Step 2. Open your palms, showing all 10 fingers.

Each player should keep their palms open so everyone can see all 10 fingers. You can rest your hands on your knees or raise them up, but at the start of the game, each player has 10 chances.

Step 3. The first player shares something they have never done.

The first player is chosen randomly or by the rule of 'rock, paper, scissors.' They say: 'Never have I ever...' and then name something they have never done. It’s best if the player mentions something that others have done.

• For example, they might say, 'I have never been to Europe,' 'I have never been arrested,' or 'I have never been in trouble with the police.'

Step 4. Fold a finger down if you have done it.

If you have ever done what the first player stated, fold down one finger. Those who haven’t done it keep their fingers up.

Step 5. Move on to the next player in the circle.

Now it’s the next player’s turn. They will say their 'Never have I ever...' statement. Players who have done it fold a finger, while the others keep theirs up.

Step 6. The winner is the one with the most fingers still up.

The winner is the one who has the most fingers still up at the end of the game. The game can continue as many times as you'd like.

Adult Version of the Game

Step 1. Gather at least 5 players, all must be of legal drinking age.

Make sure to have a minimum of 5 players, and that they are all of legal drinking age, as this version includes alcohol. If there are more than 10 players, you can split into two groups.

Step 2. Ensure all players are drinking roughly the same amount.

It’s important for all players to drink roughly the same amount. What to drink is up to you, but for added fun, you might suggest beer, wine, or cocktails.

• You can use shots: if anyone has done what the leader stated, they must take a shot. Don’t forget to keep track of how much everyone is drinking during the game.

Step 3. The first player shares something they have never done.

The first player begins by naming something they have never done. They can choose to be the leader themselves or assign someone else using 'rock, paper, scissors.' In the adult version, players may share more personal, intimate things.

• Try to mention activities that are likely to have been done by other participants so you can 'drink' as many players as possible on your turn.

Step 4. Players who have done it drink.

If anyone has done what the first player stated, they must take a drink. They can take a shot or a sip, and for added fun, set a timer for 3 seconds.

Step 5. The next player takes their turn.

Now it’s the next player's turn to share something they have never done. Players who have done it drink, while the others do not.

Step 6. If no one drinks, the leader drinks.

If no player drinks, the leader must take a drink. This adds excitement to the game and encourages everyone to be more creative with their statements.

Step 7. Keep playing until only one player has alcohol left.

Continue playing until only one participant is left with alcohol. This player will be the winner. Play as many rounds as you want!