How to Play Telestrations
Telestrations is a silly, fast party game that mixes telephone and drawing. If you like quick sketches and bigger laughs, this guide will get you started — check Playmore first for other beginner guides.
| Quick facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Game name | Telestrations |
| Game type | Telephone/drawing party game |
| Typical players | 4–8 |
| Components | Use the components included with the game |
| Beginner focus | Telephone drawing loop that’s easy to pick up |
What you are trying to do
Your group will pass sketchbooks around. Each player starts with a secret word to draw. The next player writes what they think the drawing shows. That written guess becomes the prompt for the next player to draw. The goal is to see how the phrase changes as it moves around the table and to enjoy the surprising reveals.
What you need and how to set up
Use the game kit that comes in the box. The usual pieces let each player have a small sketchbook, a marker or pen, a stack of word cards, and a timer. If your version has different pieces, just use whatever the box provides. Set a comfortable table or sit in a circle so everyone can pass books easily.
Shuffle or arrange the word cards as the box recommends and give each player one sketchbook. Decide how long each drawing or guessing turn will be. The publisher has exact timing and variant rules, so check the official rule sheet for the precise version you own.
How to play
- Each player secretly picks or is dealt a word or phrase from the included cards. Write the word on the first page of your sketchbook without showing it to anyone.
- Start the timer and draw your word on the next page. Keep the drawing quick and clear enough for someone else to guess.
- When the timer ends, pass your sketchbook to the next player. That player looks only at the drawing (not the original word) and writes a one-line guess on the following page.
- Pass the book again. The next player reads the guess and draws it on the next page within the time limit.
- Continue alternating drawing and guessing until each sketchbook has gone around the table and returned to its original owner.
- When all books are back, take turns revealing the chain: show the original word, each drawing, and each guess in order. Enjoy the changes and the surprises.
How a round or game ends
A single round ends when every sketchbook has returned to its owner and the reveal sequence has been shown. Many groups play multiple rounds and keep playing until you decide to stop or reach a time limit. Scoring and extra rules vary by edition and house preference, so check your official rule sheet for exact scoring or variant rounds.
Beginner tips
- Keep drawings simple. Big shapes and clear clues help the next player.
- Write short, single-line guesses. Long sentences can be harder to interpret.
- If time is tight, agree on a faster timer. Short turns keep energy up.
- Use plain handwriting for guesses. Messy writing can turn the phrase into something else.
- Don’t worry about drawing skill. The fun comes from how answers change, not perfect art.
FAQ
Do I need a special deck or cards?
No. Use the word cards and components that come in the box. Different editions may include different card sets or themes.
Can kids play?
Yes. The game works well with mixed ages. You can pick easier words or let kids team up with adults for help.
How do we handle versions with scoring?
Scoring rules vary by edition. For a friendly start, skip scoring and just enjoy the reveals. If you want points, follow the official rule sheet or agree on a simple house rule before you play.