Bomb Relay

Overview

Bomb Relay is a fast-paced elimination game. Whoever holds the bomb sees a short sequence of letters and has to type a word that contains it. If the word is valid, the bomb passes to the next player. If it explodes while you hold it, you are out.

The fuse lasts a random time, so nobody knows when it will explode: you cannot calculate, you have to be quick. You need at least two players.

How a round goes

1. The host picks the language of the words (Italian or English) and starts the match.
2. The bomb starts with a player, with a sequence of letters in view.
3. Type a word that contains the sequence: between 3 and 32 letters, present in the dictionary of the chosen language, and never used before in that match.
4. If it is valid, the bomb passes to the next player with a new sequence.
5. Whoever holds the bomb when it explodes is eliminated. The last player remaining wins.

Tips to win

• When the sequence arrives, type the first valid word that comes to mind: length earns nothing, passing the bomb is all that counts.
• Keep a few short, flexible words in mind for the harder sequences.
• Remember that a word already used no longer counts: do not repeat the ones others have just said.
• Do not type rare forms to look clever: if the dictionary does not contain them, you lose precious seconds.
• If the sequence looks impossible, think of a prefix, a suffix or a compound word that contains it: the shortest way is often to add letters before or after.
• Keep your hands ready on the keyboard before the bomb reaches you: the time it takes to start typing is what most often loses the round.

For the host: settings and tips

• Choose the language with all the players in mind: a challenge in a language people hardly speak is frustrating.
• With many players the match lasts longer: a good reason to plan a second match right after.
• Someone who is eliminated early can still stay in the room and get ready for the next match.