Paper and Pen Games: How to Play Lasso
If you’ve got a scrap of paper and a pen, you’ve got everything you need to play Lasso!
This easy to learn game is part strategy, part logic, and totally addictive once you get going! It’s one of our go-to games for restaurants, waiting rooms, and anywhere you need a few minutes of fun. (We’ve even played it in line at Disney World!) Plus it’s a screen-free, low pressure game perfect for all ages!
What you Need
One sheet of paper
One Pen (or pencil)
Two Players
That’s it! This is a perfect pick-up-and-play game to keep in your back pocket for when boredom strikes!
I keep a notebook in my purse for just these games so I always have an easy way to entertain the kids at a moments notice! If you need some new pens, these are some of my favorite!
How to Set Up a Game of Lasso
Draw a Grid of Dots
On your paper, draw a grid of dots. A 4×4, 5×5, or 6×6 grid is a great place to start, but you can scale it up or down depending on how long you want the game to last. Experiment to find your favorite size!
How to Play Lasso
Players take turns drawing one line between two dots. You can draw a line between any two dots. Begin at one dot, and end by lassoing your second dot, enclosing it in a circle.
Rules for Play
Lines must stay within the confines of the grid and you cannot bisect any other line, including your own.
A dot may only be used as the starting point for a lasso twice. No more than two lassos can ever extend from a single dot.
You may only lasso a dot that has not been used yet.
Winning
Continue playing until there are no more available moves left. The player who drew the last lasso wins.
Are you a visual learner? Watch our Reel on Lasso!
Lasso is just one of the easy and fun games in our Paper and Pen Games 101 series.
If you’re looking for more ways to connect and play check out the full list of games!
