Ninja Game

Young people need to move. Games like Ninja help them burn off energy in a fun and safe way. This is especially good during long events or retreats when they sit for long periods. A short, active game helps them stay focused later. Ninja is quick, exciting, and does not need any supplies.

This game also builds awareness. Each player must watch others closely. They need to stay alert and ready to respond. These skills help them grow in focus. In a world full of distractions, learning to pay attention matters. It helps them become more present—to others and to God.

Ninja also builds respect. Each player must wait their turn. They must not move when it is not allowed. They learn to play fair and follow rules. These small lessons in self-control can grow into bigger habits. These habits support growth in virtue and discipline.

Finally, this game can help build friendship. Young people laugh and bond during games like this. They get to know one another in a fun way. When they share joy, they feel more connected. A group that plays together becomes more open to praying and learning together too. This helps form true Christian community.

This game can remind us of spiritual alertness. In the Bible, Jesus tells his followers to stay awake and be ready. In Matthew 24, he says we do not know the hour the Lord will come. Ninja helps young people practice that kind of focus. They must watch and be ready to move. In the same way, we must stay ready to follow Jesus each day.

Ninja also connects to self-control. Saint Paul writes about this in Galatians. He lists self-control as a fruit of the Spirit. In the game, players must freeze and not move until it is their turn. They must hold back even when they want to swipe right away. This teaches them to pause, think, and act with care—just like in their faith life.

Another lesson comes from understanding our limits. In Ninja, once your hands are hit, you are out. It shows that we are not invincible. We all make mistakes. We all fall. This can lead to a good talk about God’s mercy and how we all need help. Even in a silly game, there are ways to point toward deeper truths. This is how youth ministry can work—fun that opens the heart to faith.

Ninja Game Instructions

Materials Needed

• None

Setup Instructions

1. Have all players stand in a circle.
2. Each player puts their hands together like they are praying.
3. Make sure there is enough space between players so they don’t bump into each other.
4. Choose someone to say “Go” to start the game.

How to Play

1. When “Go” is called, all players strike a ninja pose.
2. Players take turns going in a clockwise direction.
3. On your turn, you may try to swipe at another player’s hand with one of your hands.
4. You may only take one step and must freeze in place after your swipe.
5. The person being swiped at may move one step and try to dodge. They must also freeze right after.
6. If a player’s hand is touched, it is “dead” and must be placed behind their back.
7. When both hands are hit, that player is out of the game.
8. Play continues in turn until only one player remains. That person wins.

Notes and Variations

• Remind players to keep movements slow and careful to avoid injury.
• Do not allow hitting too hard. The swipe should be light.
• You can make the circle bigger with more players.
• You can play with silly poses or fun sound effects to make it more fun.
• Try a silent round where no one can talk at all during the game.

What age group can play the Ninja game?

The Ninja game works best for middle school and high school youth. Younger kids can play too with close supervision.

How many people can play the Ninja game?

The Ninja game is best with at least four players. It also works well with large groups.

Do I need anything to play the Ninja game?

No. The Ninja game does not need any equipment or supplies.

Is the Ninja game safe?

Yes, the Ninja game is safe when played gently. Make sure everyone knows to swipe softly and freeze after moving.

How long does the Ninja game last?

Each round of the Ninja game lasts about 5 to 10 minutes. You can play more rounds if time allows.

Can I play the Ninja game indoors?

Yes. Just make sure there is enough space so no one bumps into walls or furniture.

Can I use the Ninja game with a Bible lesson?

Yes. The Ninja game can teach focus, self-control, and spiritual alertness. These tie into Bible stories and faith life.

This silly game brings a lot of energy to your group. It doesn’t take much time or planning. There is no cost, no supplies, and no cleanup. But it gets everyone laughing and moving. That’s a win for any youth gathering.

Along the way, it sneaks in lessons about patience, focus, and control. These may not show up right away, but they matter. When youth have to freeze and wait their turn, they grow in discipline. When they try to dodge without panic, they learn calm thinking. These are small but real steps in growing as a disciple.

And sometimes, youth just need to have fun. Games like this build trust. They help teens open up. They make it easier to talk about faith later. When joy is shared, hearts open. And that is always a good start in youth ministry.

Give the Ninja game a try at your next youth night or retreat. It works with big groups or small ones. The rules are easy to learn. The laughter will come quickly. It’s a great way to wake up a sleepy group or get some energy out after a long talk.

Do you have your own spin on the Ninja game? Maybe you add music or change the poses. Let us know! Share your tips, twists, and funny stories in the comments. We love hearing what works in your group.