How to play

What is Scattergories?

Scattergories is a fast, social word game. Each round you get a single random letter and a list of categories — things like "a fruit", "a movie", or "something cold". The goal is simple: fill every category with an answer that starts with that letter before the timer runs out. The catch is that you only score big for answers nobody else thought of, so the smartest moves are the clever, unexpected ones.

Polingo brings that classic party game to your browser. There's nothing to download and no account to create — start a game, share a link, and play with friends on any device in seconds.

How to Play

  1. Create a game. Pick a name and you'll get a room with a 5-character code.
  2. Invite your friends. Share the room code or the invite link — up to 30 people can join.
  3. Start the round. Everyone gets the same letter and the same categories, and the clock starts.
  4. Fill in answers. Type a word for each category that begins with the round's letter. "A fruit" on the letter B? Banana works.
  5. Score together. When time's up, players vote on the answers. Valid answers earn points, and unique ones nobody else gave are worth the most.
  6. Win the game. Play your chosen number of rounds — the highest total score wins.

New to the game? Read the full how to play Scattergories guide with rules, scoring and tips — or practice solo first.

Tips to Win

  • Think uncommon. Shared answers score less, so skip the obvious "Apple" and reach for something nobody else will write.
  • Bank the easy ones first. Lock in answers you're sure of, then spend the rest of the clock on the hard categories.
  • Use proper nouns. Names, places, brands and movie titles are fair game — and often the most unique.
  • Submit something. A decent answer in time beats a perfect one you never finished.

Free Scattergories Generator

Just need a quick letter and category list for a pen-and-paper round? Try our free Scattergories generator — a random letter plus 150+ categories across 9 themes (Classic, Movies, Food, Gaming, Cyber Security and more). Then bring your group here to play it live with an automatic timer and scoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Scattergories online free?

Yes — Polingo is completely free to play. No fees, no subscription, and no account required.

Do I need to download or install anything?

No. The game runs entirely in your web browser on phones, tablets and computers. Open the site and play.

How do I play with friends?

Create a game, tap "Copy Invite Link" (or share the 5-character room code), and send it to your friends. When they open it they join your room — no sign-up needed.

How many people can play?

Up to 30 players can join one room, and it works great for two.

Can I change the number of rounds or the timer?

Yes. Whoever creates the room sets the number of rounds and the seconds per round before starting the game.

What happens if my connection drops?

You have a short grace period to return — a quick refresh or a brief loss of signal won't kick you out of your game.