Octopus is a tag-style pool game that combines elements of swimming, strategy, and a little teamwork. Similar to sharks and minnows, the objective of Octopus is for players to cross the pool without getting caught by the designated “octopus.”
However, as players are caught, they join the octopus, linking hands and working together to capture the remaining swimmers.
Accessories or Set-Up Needed
There are no special accessories or extra toys needed to play. However, a larger pool is better as there is more room for players to swim freely and try to escape the octopus.
How To Play Octopus
Players must swim from one side of the pool to another without getting caught. When captured by the octopus, players form a chain and try to catch the remaining swimmers.
The more players get caught, the larger the octopus, and the harder it is to cross
Before Starting
Set the designated area before starting the game. Any part of the pool can be used to play. Choose either the full length of the pool or the sides as the start and end points.
Lastly, determine what it means to be caught. It’s recommended that only the players on the end of the octopus can tag players while the middle players can only link arms and move around.
Playing Octopus
- The game starts with the octopus in the middle of the start and end point in the pool. All other players start on one side of the pool holding the wall.
- On the go signal, players will attempt to get to the opposite side of the pool without being caught by the octopus.
- Rounds are over when all players either get to the other side or are tagged by the octopus.
- Once a player is tagged, they will become a leg of the octopus and help catch the remaining swimmers when the next round starts
- Players will either link arms or hold hands with the octopus, forming a long chain. This makes it harder for both the swimmers and the octopus.
- The game continues until all swimmers have been caught or one player remains.
- A game-winner is declared if a single player successfully reaches the other side of the pool
Following the Rules
- Players must stay within the designated swimming area. Do not get out of the pool
- The octopus and any captured players must hold hands or link arms to form a chain. Do not let go of each other during a round
- The starting wall is considered a home base. The octopus cannot catch a player when they are touching home base.
- If a player is caught, swim to the side and avoid other players until the round is over.
Strategy
Use speed and agility to evade the Octopus and captured players. If only the end players are allowed to tag swimmers, aim for the middle, and try to swim through!
For the octopus, work together and communicate while moving in tandem. Focus on one swimmer at a time and try to push them to the edges of the pool boundaries.
Variations of Octopus
- Duo Octopus: Start with two octopuses linked together for more of a challenge in the beginning rounds.
- Time Limit: Play with a timer where swimmers must reach the other side within a certain time frame to avoid being caught.
- Sharks and Minnows: A classic tag-style game, instead of linked arms, players who are caught can freely swim around and tag any player.
Safety Precautions to follow
- Make sure all players are capable swimmers
- Do not dunk or push players underwater when playing
- Make sure a parent or legal guardian is watching the game at all times.
Don’t Get Caught In The Octopus’ Arms!
Octopus is a game where many people can play at a time. It offers a nice change of pace to a relaxing summer swim day.
Have fun, play in a variety of ways, and swim fast!
