Hooky by Rio Grande Games | Deduction Card Game for 3–5 Players | 45–60 Min

Overview

Step into a lively classroom with Hooky, a clever deduction game from Rio Grande Games. Designed for 3–5 players and set to run about 45–60 minutes, it challenges you to balance clever questioning with careful reasoning as you try to identify which three students are playing hooky.

Each student is represented by a card bearing a unique starting letter, and a trio of Hooky cards marks the missing trio you must uncover. The tension comes from limited information and a ticking clock, making every round a fresh blend of memory, strategy, and social play.

How to play

In each round, you choose a player and give them a 5-letter word. That player reveals how many letters from your word appear among their in-hand cards. Use this clue to narrow down possibilities, eliminate unlikely candidates, and assemble the identities of the three missing students before time runs out.

The game rewards careful note-taking and careful listening. You may press for a sharper lead, but a misstep can waste a useful clue. The balance of risk and deduction keeps each session engaging and replayable.

What’s inside and how it plays

• Student cards representing the alphabet subset that players know a portion of
• Three Hooky cards representing the missing students you’re trying to identify
• Round trackers and simple reference components to guide play

Why players enjoy Hooky

• Clear rules with quick setup, yet deep enough for thoughtful deduction
• Fun for game nights, family gatherings, and classroom-friendly play
• Optimized for 3–5 players and ages 14+, with 45–60 minute sessions

Beyond the gameplay, Hooky carries a meaningful purpose. Proceeds benefit the Aseema Charitable Trust in Mumbai, India, supporting secular education and medical care for children in deep poverty for more than 25 years. Enjoy a engaging game experience that also contributes to a charitable cause.