Red Rover
Red Rover is a team game in which players link arms to form opposing lines and call an opponent to run through their line.
Team game: A game in which players cooperate in groups competing against one another. Red Rover depends on two teams taking turns calling and defending.
Playground game: A game commonly played informally in an outdoor play area, especially by children. Red Rover is chiefly known as an organized playground activity.
Sports injury: Physical harm sustained during sport or physical activity. Collisions and arm-pulling can cause injuries during Red Rover.
Duck, Duck, Goose: A children's circle game in which a chosen player chases another around the group. Both games use a called player and a sudden run, but only Red Rover forms opposing lines.
Chain (human formation): A line of people connected by holding hands or linking arms. Players form this barrier, which the runner must try to break through.
Physical education: Instruction that develops physical skills, fitness, and understanding of movement. Red Rover has been used in group play, though its collision risks affect its suitability.
School playground safety: Policies and practices that reduce hazards in school play areas and activities. Some schools restrict Red Rover because its central challenge involves forceful contact.
British Bulldog (game): A children's chasing game in which players try to cross a space while avoiding the bulldog. Both games challenge runners to pass through opponents, though British Bulldog uses pursuit rather than linked arms.
Tag (game): A group game in which players chase and touch one another under agreed rules. Like tag, Red Rover uses a runner and opposing players, but tests a linked barrier.
Children's game: A game traditionally played by children, often with simple shared rules and little equipment. The game's enduring setting is children's group play.