How to Play Tag Strategically

The game of tag is easy to play, as it doesn't require any equipment or special areas. Tag can be played almost anywhere at anytime. Competing while employing strategy can make the game more interesting and may help you to elude anyone who wants to make you "it."

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Chase individuals from an angle if you are "it." Chasing someone from behind gives them control over where you're going, but if you come at the person from an angle, you can trap him against a wall or other object and limit the escape options.
2. Pretend to be one of the players when you're really "it." Players who haven't been paying attention can sometimes be fooled if you look like you're trying to avoid getting tagged by someone else.
3. Go after a player that you know you can tag. Whether the person is slow or tires easily, it pays to know who you're most likely to catch. If you can't sneak up on someone or fool them, outrunning a player is your next choice.
4. Stay out of the "it" person's eyesight. She will have a harder time catching you if she can't see you. Stay behind her or remain partially obscured by a tree or other object.
5. Run in a zigzag pattern away from "It." This can help you avoid traps and make you harder to catch.
6. Head toward other people if the "It" person is after you. Whoever is "It" may decide to take off after someone else who is slower or in a better position to be tagged. At the very least, it can create enough confusion for you to gain a step or two.