Rock Paper Scissors: Strategy and History

Introduction

• Rock-paper-scissors (RPS) decision time for chores battle.
• Stakes: If sister wins, she escapes chores for a month.

Historical Background

• Origins: Dates back to Chinese Han Dynasty.
• Japan: Modern form established in the 7th century.
• Global Spread: Became worldwide by early 20th century.

Game Notions

• Considered a game of chance by some; a strategic system by others.
• Used in championships and tournaments.

Basic Rules

• Four outcomes:
  1. Tie
  2. Rock crushes scissors
  3. Paper covers rock
  4. Scissors cut paper

Psychology and Strategy

• Predictability: Humans have predictable patterns.
• Beginners' Mistakes:
  • Clenching fist for rock
  • Index finger out for scissors
• Common Start: Most players start with rock.

Strategic Tips

• First Move:
  • Don’t start with rock.
  • Paper is a strong first choice, especially against men.
• Statistical Popularity:
  • Rock most popular; scissors least.
• After Losing:
  • Play a move not previously used.
  • Anticipate opponent's repeat.
• After Winning:
  • Opponent likely to change strategy.
  • Repeat your move to surprise.

Advanced Techniques

• Eyes Closed Technique: Stay focused on strategy.
• Switch Strategy:
  • Winners switch; losers often change.
• Randomization: Play each move one-third of the time.

Game Theory Insights

• Conditional Response:
  • Winners stick to winning move.
  • Losers change strategy.
• Chinese Study:
  • 360 students, 300 rounds.
  • Identified counter tactics and mirroring.

Variations and Fun

• Global Versions:
  • Malaysia: Rock, water, bird.
  • Indonesia: Elephant, human, ant.
• Group Play:
  • Human rock-paper-scissors.
  • Group poses for each element.

Technological Advances

• Robot Rock-paper-scissors:
  • Jenkin: 100% win rate using high-speed recognition.
• Fair Play: Strategy over robot's speed.

Conclusion

• Use learned strategies to play fair and increase winning chances against both humans and tech challenges.