Short Answer: The real name of the “10 Things Game” is most often “Name Ten Things”, a quick and lively category game played in both indoor and outdoor settings. It remains popular because it’s simple, adaptable and great for sparking conversation. Keep reading to learn how it works, its variations, and why people confuse it with similar games.

1. The Most Common Answer: "Name Ten Things" (The Party & Category Game)

The “10 Things Game” is widely recognised as Name Ten Things, a straightforward listing and guessing game enjoyed across social groups.
Its ease of play makes it a favourite at gatherings, family events and classroom activities. 

Illustration of people playing “Name Ten Things” on a sofa and a group playing “The Game of Things” around a table.

1.1. Core Rules: How to Play Name Ten Things

Objective and Team Setup

The aim is simple: one player chooses a category, and others attempt to list ten items that fit it.
It can be played individually or in teams, depending on group size.
The challenge is staying within the category while thinking quickly.

Categories and Timing (The Role of the Timer)

Players select a theme such as “types of fruit” or “famous landmarks.”
Using a timer adds energy and tension, encouraging fast, creative thinking.
Timing also keeps rounds short and engaging for everyone involved.

Scoring and Winning the Round

Points are awarded based on how quickly ten valid items are named.
Some groups prefer a tiered scoring system to reward faster lists.
At the end, the highest-scoring player or team wins the game.

1.2. Variations: Name 10 as an Icebreaker or Educational Tool

“Find 10 Things in Common” (Team-Building Icebreaker)

This version asks participants to identify ten shared traits or experiences.
It is often used at workshops or team-building sessions because it encourages connection, listening and collaboration.

Classroom and ESL Use (Vocabulary Practice)

Teachers adapt the game for vocabulary development by choosing themed lists.
It helps students practise recall, word associations and fluency, making it a useful educational tool for many age groups.

2. The Popular Board Game Confusion: "The Game of THINGS"

Although their names sound similar, Name Ten Things is frequently mistaken for The Game of THINGS, a bestselling party board game.
However, the mechanics are entirely different, and the similarity lies only in the phrasing.

2.1. How The Game of THINGS is Different

Key Difference: Anonymity and Guessing the Writer (Not a Categories Game)

In The Game of THINGS, players write anonymous responses to prompts.
Others then guess who wrote each one.
It focuses on deduction and humour rather than listing categories.

Gameplay Summary (Topic Cards and Deduction)

A card provides a prompt such as “Things you shouldn’t say in a lift.”
Everyone writes an answer, and players take turns guessing the author.
The anonymity creates surprises and laughter as the game unfolds.

Why It’s a Top-Selling Party Board Game

The game’s humour, flexibility and replay value make it ideal for parties.
Every round feels different because responses depend entirely on the players.

3. Other Games Where the Number 10 is Central

Several other games involve the number ten, which often appear in search results and cause additional confusion.

3.1. Trivia and Skill Games Based on the Number Ten

Guess in 10 (The Trivia Card Game)

Guess in 10 challenges players to identify a mystery object using no more than ten questions.
It blends deduction with strategy and works well for mixed-age groups.

Make 10 (The Educational Maths Card Game)

Make 10 encourages players to combine numbers to total ten.
It is especially useful for younger learners building confidence with mental maths.

3.2. Why These “10 Things” Games Are Popular

Encouraging Quick Thinking and Creativity

All versions of “10 Things” games promote fast thinking and creativity.
Players must generate ideas quickly, which keeps the activity lively and entertaining.

Fostering Group Collaboration and Communication

These games naturally encourage teamwork, conversation and shared laughter.
Whether used in classrooms, meetings or parties, they help people connect in an easy, enjoyable way.