Pictionary is a popular party game where players take turns drawing pictures that represent words or phrases while their teammates try to guess what they are drawing. The game comes with a deck of cards that have different words and phrases on them, which are separated into categories distinguished by color.
The orange category in Pictionary contains words and phrases that can be considered medium difficulty to draw and guess. Some examples of things that may show up on orange Pictionary cards include:
Objects
- Pumpkin
- Basketball
- Umbrella
- Light bulb
- Rocking chair
Orange cards will feature common everyday objects that have recognizable shapes and features. A pumpkin may be depicted as an oval or circle shape with triangular eyes and a nose. A basketball can be drawn as a sphere with lines indicating the black stripes on its surface. An umbrella as an orange card item would likely be drawn with a curved or dome-like shape on top of a straight handle.
Actions
- Jumping
- Cleaning
- Fishing
- Brushing teeth
- Baking
Action words allow the drawer to convey movement and activity. Jumping may be drawn with a stick figure bending its knees and propelling off the ground. Cleaning can be depicted through a character holding cleaning supplies and motions indicating scrubbing. Fishing may show a figure holding a fishing rod with a line going into the water. Brushing teeth would have a hand holding a toothbrush up to a mouth. Baking can be displayed with a bowl, spoon, and oven.
Difficulty Level
Orange words are meant to be moderately challenging. They are harder than yellow cards which feature simple nouns like “dog” or “tree”. However, orange words are still concrete objects, actions, and concepts that have straightforward visual representations. This makes them easier to draw and guess compared to blue or black cards which have more complex phrases, idioms, and abstract concepts.
Examples
Here are some examples of what orange Pictionary words may look like when drawn:
| Word/Phrase | Drawing |
|---|---|
| Space Shuttle | Triangle shape with two vertical lines representing rockets on the side and small circles for windows |
| Playing Guitar | Stick figure holding a guitar shape with lines indicating strumming motion |
| Beach | Wavy lines for water, large circle for sun, triangles for mountains/hills |
As you can see from the examples above, orange word drawings rely on simple shapes, symbols, and figure gestures. This allows players to make logical guesses based on the basic elements included in the drawing.
Strategies
Here are some tips for drawing and guessing orange items in Pictionary:
- When drawing, stick to the most recognizable features of an object. Don’t get caught up trying to add intricate details.
- Use arrows or impact lines to show action and movement for orange action words.
- Guess based on basic shapes and elements. You don’t need the full picture to identify an umbrella for example.
- Don’t overthink it! The drawings are meant to be simple. Don’t look for complexity with orange items.
- Build off previous guesses. If teammates have said “beach” for the drawing, shouts of “sandcastle” or “swimsuit” may be good next guesses.
Playing Strategically With Orange Cards
Here are some strategic considerations when orange cards come up in Pictionary:
- Have newer or younger players try their hand at drawing on orange turns. The medium difficulty will help build confidence.
- Use orange turns to think through your drawing methods and find techniques that work well for you.
- Orange cards present a good opportunity for less experienced teams to gain points.
- Don’t waste too much time on an orange item. If you’re stumped, move to the next card quickly.
- Similarly, use the full time if you think you can get an orange item but just need more time to draw details.
Orange cards are the bread and butter of Pictionary. Getting these words right will help rack up points. But don’t let them trip you up either. Know when to move on and maintain momentum if orange items prove tricky in the moment.
Working Together as a Team
Communication with teammates is key in Pictionary. Use orange turns to improve how you interact and work together:
- Discuss drawing strategies and styles so you’re on the same page.
- Ask the drawer for clarification if you’re stuck. Say things like “Is it an object or action?”
- Make sure only one person is shouting out guesses at a time.
- Build on each other’s guesses and talk through possible answers.
- Stay positive and encouraging, especially for less artistic teammates.
Drawing well isn’t the only path to success in Pictionary. Guiding your teammates towards the right guess is just as important. Orange items allow some trial and error to figure out your team’s strengths and communication style.
Having Fun
Above all, focus on having fun with orange items and Pictionary in general. Not every drawing has to be a masterpiece. Laugh at silly drawings and enjoy some friendly competition. Use orange cards to get creative and get everyone involved. The enjoyment you have together is more important than winning!
Conclusion
Orange words and phrases in Pictionary provide a medium level challenge. They include common objects, actions, and concepts that have recognizable characteristics. Strategic teams will look for opportunities to pick up points on orange cards, while still preserving time for tougher items. Drawing orange cards well relies on simple shapes and symbols rather than intricate illustrations. Guessing them requires basic logical thinking based on the elements you see. With practice, orange items can be a good avenue for gaining confidence, honing skills, and working together. Most importantly, maintain an upbeat attitude and enjoy the hilarious drawings and guesses that emerge during orange turns!
