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The Game Economy
In this fast-paced game of chance and strategy, players go head-to-head in sudden-death challenges to grow their wealth. But there's a catch: no challenge can be refused! The Game Economy keeps the energy high and the room buzzing as students compete with skill, luck, and a little friendly bluffing.
Josh Barriger
May 23, 2025
Gameplay
6+ Players 👥
5-8 Minutes ⏱️
What You’ll Need
Fake money (10 bills per player)
Quarters (1 per player)
Printable money (optional: customize with youth leaders' faces for fun)
List of approved games: Rock, Paper, Scissors | Thumb Wrestling | Coin Flip
Setup
Distribute currency: Give each player 10 fake bills and 1 quarter.
Designate a play area: A large, open space where players can freely walk and challenge each other.
Explain the three challenge types: Make sure everyone knows how to play each.
How to Play
Start the Economy: Announce the goal—end the game with the most money.
Initiate a challenge: Any player may challenge another player at any time.
Let the challenged choose: The challenged player picks one of the three games to play.
Go all-in: Winner takes one bill from the loser. Coin flips must be decided using each player's personal quarter.
Enforce sudden death: All challenges are one-and-done—no best-of-three!
Keep moving: Players must continue playing new opponents, and can’t challenge the same player twice in a row.
End the game: After a set time limit (suggested: 4-5 minutes), have everyone count their bills. The richest player wins!
Say Something Like
“Today, you’re entering The Game Economy. You’ll start with a small fortune, and it’s up to you to grow it. You’ll challenge others in games of chance and quick thinking—but be warned, you must accept any challenge. Choose your battles wisely, and let’s see who ends the day the richest!”
Variations
Chuck, Bear, Woman: Replace Rock, Paper, Scissors with this fun alternative.
Reverse Power: Let the challenger pick the game instead of the challenged.
Double Stakes: If both players agree, allow them to wager two bills instead of one.
Discipleship Teaching Points
This game sets up great discussion about wise choices, stewardship, and how quickly fortunes can change—both in games and in life. Use it to talk about Matthew 6:19-21 and the importance of investing in eternal things.
Secular Teaching Points
Highlights quick thinking, risk-taking, and adapting to unexpected situations. Reinforces social interaction, decision-making, and handling wins or losses with good sportsmanship.
This game idea was sent in by Josh Barriger. If you want to support him, head over and buy him a coffee!
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Keywords: money game, youth group challenge, quick games, competitive, fun group game, rock paper scissors, coin flip, thumb war, economy theme, classroom economy
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