Civilians
Civilians receive the same secret word as most of the table. Their job is to give clues that prove they know the real word, compare everyone else's descriptions, and vote out suspicious players.
How to Play Word Impostor
Learn how to play Word Impostor with clear rules, turn flow, voting basics, and mode differences across Classic, Wereword, Spyfall, Double Agent, and Hardcore.
Learn how a round works, what each role does, and how to give clues without making yourself obvious. If you are new to Word Impostor, start here.
Game Overview
Word Impostor is a social deduction game where players try to identify who among them does not belong. Each round, most players are given the same word to describe, but some players receive different words or no word at all.
If your group is sharing one phone or tablet, use Pass & Play mode. For online play, create a room from the homepage, share the room code, and let everyone join from their own browser.
The key twist: Civilians and impostors do not always know their exact role at the start. They often figure it out from the clues other players give. Mr. White is the exception because that player gets no word.
Player Roles
Impostors
Impostors receive a different but related word. They win by blending in, copying the level of detail other players use, and surviving the vote long enough to confuse the group.
Mr. White
Mr. White is an optional role that receives no word at all. That player must listen carefully, infer the secret word from clues, and avoid sounding lost during descriptions and discussion.
Round Flow
- Create a room, choose a mode, and invite 3 to 10 players.
- Each player secretly checks their assigned word or role.
- Players take turns giving short clues without saying the word directly.
- The table discusses suspicious clues, inconsistent details, and possible impostors.
- Everyone votes. Civilians try to eliminate impostors and Mr. White; impostors try to survive.
Tips for Better Clues
- Use details that fit your word but do not give the word away immediately.
- Avoid obvious synonyms, spelling hints, or private jokes only one person understands.
- Listen for clues that are too vague, too broad, or slightly mismatched with everyone else's theme.
- As an impostor, mirror the group's tone first, then add one believable detail once you understand the word cluster.
Common Questions
How many players can play Word Impostor?
Word Impostor supports 3-10 players per game. The game is most fun with 5-8 players because there is enough discussion without the round dragging.
What is Mr. White?
Mr. White receives no word and has to infer the secret word by listening to everyone else. Mr. White teams up with impostors and wins by staying hidden.
What game modes are available?
Word Impostor supports Remote Play, Local Play, Pass & Play, Classic, Wereword, Spyfall, Double Agent, and Hardcore so groups can pick the right level of pressure.