How to Play the Sphinx Improv Game

The Sphinx (aka the Sphynx, aka Buddha, aka Oracle) is an improv game for three players, who must work in concert to answer questions from the audience. Very quick thinking is required for this game, as a single misplaced word or non-sequitor can ruin a whole answer. When performed correctly, the Sphinx is one of the more interactive improv games you can play with an audience, since you continually answer their questions. Here is how to play.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Have three players arrange themselves in a line, one behind the other. The front player should sit on the floor, the next player sit on a chair or kneel and the third player should stand.

2. Explain to the audience that the creature before them is none other than the famed Sphinx of legend, and can answer any question they have.

3. Ask the audience for a question. Repeat that question to the players, prefacing it with "Oh Mighty Sphinx,..."

4. Have the players respond to the question one word at a time. The player in front should say the first word of an answer.

5. Immediately say the next word of the answer if you are the second player. You will have to think quickly to continue the sentence in a way that makes sense.

6. The third player must follow suit. After the third player says a word, the first player must say a word again, and players continue speaking one word at a time until a satisfactory answer has been achieved.

7. Place your hands palm together and say, "Hmmmmm," if the player before you has spoken the final word of an answer.

8. Repeat Steps 3 through 7 until you feel enough questions have been answered.

Tips & Warnings

• It is customary to tell the audience "One more question" before the last question.
• Make sure everyone in your troupe is playing the same version of the game, lest one of them refer to a Sphinx as a Buddha.