Are you ready to test your detective skills and play the classic board game, Guess Who? This game is all about asking questions and making deductions to figure out the identity of a mysterious character. With a range of characters to choose from, each with their own unique features, players take turns asking yes or no questions to gather information and narrow down the possibilities. But be careful, as the game is designed to be challenging and keep you on your toes. Get ready to put your detective hat on and start playing Guess Who!
What is Guess Who?
Brief History of Guess Who?
Guess Who? is a classic board game that has been enjoyed by millions of people around the world for decades. The game was first created in 1979 by Ora and Wynn Wyman, and it quickly became a popular hit.
The game is based on the idea of guessing the identity of a hidden character based on clues given by other players. The game board features a grid of 24 character cards, each with its own unique characteristics and features. The objective of the game is to be the first player to correctly guess the identity of the hidden character.
The game has evolved over the years, with various editions and variations released, but the basic gameplay and rules have remained largely the same. Today, Guess Who? remains a popular choice for family game nights and parties, and it continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Gameplay Mechanics
Guess Who? is a popular board game that was first introduced in 1986 by Hasbro. The game is designed for two to six players and involves asking questions to figure out the identity of a hidden character. The objective of the game is to be the first player to correctly identify the character.
Gameplay Mechanics:
The game begins with one player choosing a character card from a deck of characters. The chosen character must then be placed on a stand so that the other players cannot see their identity. The first player then asks a question about the character’s appearance or attributes, such as “What color is their hat?” or “Do they have glasses?”. The other players then answer the question by raising their hand or using a token. If the answer is correct, the questioner earns a point. If the answer is incorrect, the questioner loses a point.
The game continues with each player taking turns asking questions and earning points for correct answers. However, if a player asks a question that has already been asked, they lose a point. The game ends when one player reaches 30 points, at which point the player with the most points is declared the winner.
Guess Who? also includes a series of challenges that can be used to change up the gameplay. These challenges include “Guess Who? Junior”, which is designed for younger players, and “Guess Who? Superheroes”, which features characters from the Marvel Comics universe.
Overall, Guess Who? is a fun and engaging game that is suitable for players of all ages. Its simple gameplay mechanics make it easy to learn, while the challenges and different character decks offer variety and excitement for players who want to mix things up.
Components of the Game
The game of Guess Who? is played with a deck of question cards and character cards. Each character card has a name, profession, and a description of their appearance. The question cards have either a yes or no question that must be answered with a character card.
Each player takes turns asking questions and trying to guess the identity of the mystery character. The first player to correctly guess the character’s identity wins the game. The game also includes a special card called the “guess” card, which allows a player to make a guess without asking a question.
The game board is not used in Guess Who? but rather the game is played by passing around the question cards and character cards. The game is suitable for 2-6 players and can be played by children and adults alike.
Target Audience
Guess Who? is a popular board game that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. The game is designed for two to six players, making it an ideal choice for both family gatherings and group activities. It is particularly popular among children and teenagers, as it encourages social interaction and helps to develop critical thinking skills. However, adults also enjoy playing the game, as it can be a fun way to spend time with friends or family. The game is suitable for players who are comfortable with English, as it requires players to read and follow the instructions, ask questions, and make guesses based on the information provided.
How to Play Guess Who?
Setting Up the Game
Before you begin playing Guess Who?, it is important to understand the basic setup of the game. This section will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to set up the game correctly.
Number of Players
Guess Who? is designed for two to six players. If you have fewer players, some modifications to the game rules may be necessary.
Game Components
The game consists of a board, character cards, and a guessing roster. The board is typically designed with a grid of 24 squares, each containing a character image. The character cards are placed on a central square on the board, representing the character that players must guess. The guessing roster is a list of all the characters in the game, along with a brief description of their appearance.
Placing the Characters
To begin, the character cards are placed on a central square on the board. Each character card represents a different character that players must guess. The characters are randomly selected from a pool of 24 character cards, each with unique names and descriptions.
The character’s appearance is represented by a square on the board, and each character’s image is placed on that square. The images are usually depicted as cartoonish illustrations, and they represent the character’s appearance, including their hair color, clothing, and other distinctive features.
Selecting a Detective
Next, one player is chosen to be the detective, who will ask questions and try to guess the character’s identity. The remaining players are known as the mystery gang and will provide answers to the detective’s questions.
Once the detective has been chosen, the game can begin. The detective must ask questions and gather information about the character’s appearance to determine their identity. The mystery gang must provide truthful answers to the detective’s questions, but they cannot reveal the character’s identity.
Setting the Time Limit
It is recommended to set a time limit for the game, typically 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of players. This ensures that the game remains exciting and engaging, without dragging on for too long.
By following these steps, you can set up the game correctly and begin playing Guess Who? with your friends and family.
Playing the Game
The objective of the game is to be the first player to correctly identify the hidden character on the board, based on the clues given by the other players.
Setting Up the Game
- Choose a player to go first, and give them the answer card with the hidden character’s identity.
- Place the answer card face down on the board, so that only the character’s image is visible.
- Shuffle the question cards and place them face down in a stack near the board.
Taking Turns
- The first player flips over the top question card and reads it aloud.
- The other players must then ask yes or no questions to gather more information about the hidden character.
- The questioner must keep track of the questions they ask and the answers they receive, using a small whiteboard or piece of paper.
- If a player’s question is answered with a yes, they must record it with an X on their board.
- If a player’s question is answered with a no, they must record it with an O on their board.
- The questioner must continue asking questions until they are able to determine the hidden character’s identity, or until they have used up all of their question cards.
- Once a player has correctly identified the hidden character, they become the new answer card holder and the game continues with the next round.
Scoring
At the end of the game, each player counts the number of correct guesses they made during the game. The player with the most correct guesses is the winner. In the event of a tie, the player with the most questions answered correctly is the winner.
Winning the Game
To win the game of Guess Who?, a player must correctly identify the hidden character on their game board by asking a series of questions to the other players. The first player to correctly guess the character wins the game.
The objective of the game is to gather information about the character by asking questions and eliminating suspects from the game board. The game ends when either all of the suspects have been eliminated or when the player correctly guesses the character.
In order to win the game, players must carefully consider their questions and pay attention to the answers given by the other players. It is important to ask questions that will provide the most information possible, while also trying to eliminate as many suspects as possible with each question.
Players should also pay attention to the game board and the suspects that have already been eliminated, as this can provide valuable information for making informed guesses.
To win the game, players must use their skills of deduction and reasoning to piece together the clues and make an educated guess about the hidden character. With careful questioning and strategic thinking, players can increase their chances of winning the game of Guess Who?.
Tips and Strategies for Playing Guess Who?
Observation Skills
Guess Who? is a game that requires players to observe the other players’ behavior and use their deductive reasoning skills to guess the hidden character. Here are some tips on how to develop observation skills to improve your gameplay:
- Pay attention to the players’ responses: Observe the other players’ reactions to your questions. If they seem hesitant or give vague answers, it may indicate that they are hiding something. On the other hand, if they respond quickly and confidently, it may mean that they have a good idea of the character’s identity.
- Observe body language: Body language can reveal a lot about a player’s thoughts and intentions. Pay attention to the other players’ facial expressions, gestures, and posture. For example, if a player suddenly crosses their arms or looks away, it may suggest that they are trying to hide something.
- Look for inconsistencies: When a player makes a statement, listen carefully to their words and compare them to their body language. If there is a mismatch between what they say and how they behave, it may indicate that they are trying to deceive you.
- Take note of non-verbal cues: Non-verbal cues such as sighs, gasps, or shrugs can give away a player’s thoughts or feelings. Pay attention to these cues and use them to your advantage.
By developing your observation skills, you can become a better player and increase your chances of guessing the hidden character in Guess Who?
Questioning Techniques
Effective questioning techniques are crucial in Guess Who? as they allow players to gather information and narrow down their suspect pool. Here are some strategies to consider when questioning other players:
- Asking Direct Questions: This is the most straightforward approach. Direct questions are those that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” For example, “Is the character you’re thinking of male?” or “Is the character’s last name Smith?”
- Asking Leading Questions: Leading questions are those that contain information and prompt the other player to either agree or disagree. For example, “If the character you’re thinking of is a man, would that help me narrow down my suspects?” or “If the character’s occupation is a doctor, does that fit with your image?”
- Asking Hypothetical Questions: Hypothetical questions involve imagining a situation and asking the other player to respond based on that scenario. For example, “If the character had a red shirt on, would that help me identify who you’re thinking of?” or “If the character had a mustache, would that match the image in your mind?”
- Asking Multiple Questions at Once: This approach allows you to gather multiple pieces of information at once. For example, “Is the character a man? Does he have blonde hair? Does he wear glasses?”
- Asking about the Character’s Actions or Behavior: This can be a helpful way to gather information about the character without revealing too much about your own knowledge. For example, “Did the character have any conversations with other characters? Did he do anything unusual or stand out in any way?”
By employing these questioning techniques, players can effectively gather information and make educated guesses about the character in question, increasing their chances of winning the game.
Maintaining Suspense
- Building anticipation: The success of the game largely depends on maintaining suspense and building anticipation. This is achieved by asking strategic questions that keep the suspects and the murder weapon hidden while encouraging players to think critically and draw conclusions based on the information provided.
- Using deduction: To keep the game exciting, players should use deduction to arrive at their guesses rather than simply relying on luck or intuition. This involves paying close attention to the answers given and using logic to make educated guesses about the identity of the culprit and the weapon used.
- Avoiding direct questions: Direct questions that reveal crucial information about the suspects or the murder weapon should be avoided. Instead, players should ask questions that provide clues without giving away too much information. This keeps the game unpredictable and ensures that the mystery remains intriguing until the very end.
- Misleading answers: Players should be careful not to give away too much information in their answers. Misleading answers can be an effective strategy to throw off other players and keep them guessing. However, this should be used sparingly to avoid breaking the suspense entirely.
- Managing time: Time management is essential to maintaining suspense in the game. Players should use their time wisely to ask strategic questions and gather clues without giving away too much information. Rushing through the game or taking too much time can ruin the suspense and make the game less enjoyable for everyone involved.
Variations of Guess Who?
Two-Player Guess Who?
The two-player version of Guess Who? is designed for two players, making it a great option for couples or for players who want a more challenging game. The rules are similar to the original game, but there are some key differences.
One of the main differences is that the game is played with only two characters, instead of four. This means that there are fewer suspects to choose from, making the game more challenging. The second player takes on the role of the killer, and their goal is to guess the identity of the second character before the first player can guess their own character.
Another difference is that the game is played with only two rounds, instead of four. This means that there are fewer opportunities for the second player to ask questions and gather information.
The game is played on a smaller board, which is designed for two players. The board is set up with two characters, each with their own characteristics, such as hair color, height, and occupation. The first player chooses a character and asks questions to try to determine the identity of the second character. The second player then takes their turn, trying to guess the identity of the first character.
Overall, the two-player version of Guess Who? is a fun and challenging game that is perfect for couples or for players who want a more intense game. It is a great way to test your skills and challenge your brain, while still having fun with friends or loved ones.
Themed Guess Who?
Themed Guess Who? is a variation of the classic board game that allows players to immerse themselves in different themes while playing the game. Instead of the traditional game board with a series of characters to guess, themed Guess Who? games have different backgrounds, characters, and clues that are specific to the chosen theme. This adds a new level of excitement and challenge to the game, as players must not only guess the character’s identity but also learn about the theme’s history, culture, and other relevant details.
Here are some examples of popular themed Guess Who? games:
- Medieval Guess Who? – In this game, players must guess the identity of medieval characters such as knights, princesses, and wizards. The game board is set in a medieval castle, and the clues relate to the characters’ roles, weapons, and other aspects of medieval life.
- Wild West Guess Who? – This game features characters from the Wild West, such as cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. The game board is set in a western town, and the clues relate to the characters’ occupations, weapons, and other aspects of Wild West life.
- Greek Mythology Guess Who? – In this game, players must guess the identity of Greek mythological characters such as gods, goddesses, and heroes. The game board is set in ancient Greece, and the clues relate to the characters’ powers, stories, and other aspects of Greek mythology.
- Space Adventure Guess Who? – This game features characters from space adventures, such as astronauts, aliens, and space robots. The game board is set in outer space, and the clues relate to the characters’ missions, technology, and other aspects of space exploration.
Themed Guess Who? games are a great way to add variety and excitement to the classic board game. They also provide an opportunity for players to learn about different cultures, historical periods, and themes while having fun.
Expansion Packs for Guess Who?
In addition to the base game, there are several expansion packs available for Guess Who? that introduce new characters and gameplay mechanics. These expansion packs offer a fresh take on the classic game and provide additional challenges for experienced players.
The Mystery of the Haunted Mansion
The Mystery of the Haunted Mansion is a popular expansion pack for Guess Who? This expansion features 16 new characters, each with their own unique background and motive for being in the haunted mansion. Players must use their deductive skills to determine the identity of each character and solve the mystery of the haunted mansion.
The Time Traveler’s Pack
The Time Traveler’s Pack is another popular expansion pack for Guess Who? This expansion introduces time travel as a gameplay mechanic, allowing players to visit different eras and meet historical figures. The expansion features 16 new characters, including famous historical figures such as Albert Einstein and Cleopatra. Players must use their knowledge of history and the clues provided by the characters to determine their identity.
The Comic Book Heroes Pack
The Comic Book Heroes Pack is a fun expansion pack for Guess Who? This expansion features 16 new characters inspired by comic book heroes and villains. Players must use their knowledge of comic book lore and the clues provided by the characters to determine their identity.
The Space Adventure Pack
The Space Adventure Pack is a science fiction-themed expansion pack for Guess Who? This expansion features 16 new characters, including aliens and space travelers. Players must use their knowledge of science fiction and the clues provided by the characters to determine their identity.
These expansion packs offer a unique twist on the classic gameplay of Guess Who? and provide additional challenges for experienced players. They are a great way to keep the game fresh and engaging for players who have mastered the base game.
Famous Guess Who? Editions
Guess Who? Movies and TV Shows
Over the years, there have been several movies and TV shows that have been inspired by the Guess Who? board game. Here are some of the most famous ones:
Clue (1985)
Clue, released in 1985, is a comedy film that was inspired by the board game of the same name. The movie follows a group of strangers who are invited to a mysterious mansion, where they must solve a murder and find out who the killer is. The game of Clue was released in 1949 and has since become a classic board game that has been enjoyed by generations.
Murder by Death (1976)
Murder by Death, released in 1976, is a comedy film that was inspired by the board game Clue. The movie follows a group of detectives who are invited to a mysterious mansion, where they must solve a murder and find out who the killer is. The movie was directed by Robert Moore and stars an all-star cast, including Truman Capote, Peter Sellers, and Alec Guinness.
Knives Out (2019)
Knives Out, released in 2019, is a mystery film that was directed by Rian Johnson. The movie follows a wealthy crime novelist who is found dead, and his family and staff are all suspects in the murder. The movie was a box office success and received critical acclaim, with many praising its clever plot and memorable characters.
Murder on the Orient Express (2017)
Murder on the Orient Express, released in 2017, is a mystery film that was directed by Kenneth Branagh. The movie follows a group of passengers on a train who are all suspects in a murder case. The movie was based on the classic novel of the same name by Agatha Christie and featured an all-star cast, including Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, and Judi Dench.
These movies and TV shows have all been inspired by the classic board game Guess Who? and have helped to popularize the genre of mystery and detective stories.
Guess Who? Video Games
Since its inception, Guess Who? has been adapted into various forms of media, including video games. Here are some notable examples:
Guess Who? for PC
Released in 1997, this version of the game was developed by Her Interactive and published by Mattel. The game features the original gameplay mechanics but with updated graphics and sound effects. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their unique features and clues to help them solve the mystery.
Guess Who? for Nintendo DS
Released in 2009, this version of the game was developed by Ubisoft and published by THQ. The game features a single-player mode where players must guess the identity of a hidden character by asking questions and collecting clues. The game also features a multiplayer mode where players can compete against each other to see who can guess the identity of the hidden character first.
Guess Who? for iOS and Android
Released in 2012, this version of the game was developed by KONAMI and published by DeNA. The game features the same gameplay mechanics as the original board game but with updated graphics and the ability to play against other players online. Players can also create their own custom characters and share them with other players.
These video game adaptations of Guess Who? offer a new way for fans of the game to enjoy it, while also introducing it to a new audience who may not have been familiar with the original board game.
Guess Who? Merchandise
Since its creation, Guess Who? has become a beloved classic board game and has spawned a range of merchandise that has extended its reach far beyond the realm of traditional board games. The popularity of Guess Who? has led to the development of a wide range of merchandise that includes everything from action figures to clothing items.
Action Figures
One of the most popular forms of Guess Who? merchandise is the action figure. These figures are designed to look like the characters from the game and are often used as collectibles by fans. The action figures are usually sold in sets, with each set featuring a different character from the game. The detail on these figures is often impressive, with each one capturing the essence of the character they represent.
Clothing Items
Another popular form of Guess Who? merchandise is clothing items. These include t-shirts, hats, and other accessories that feature the characters from the game. The clothing items are often used as a way for fans to show their love for the game and can be found in a variety of sizes to fit all ages. The designs on these clothing items are often colorful and eye-catching, making them a great way to express your love for the game.
Other Merchandise
In addition to action figures and clothing items, there are a wide range of other Guess Who? merchandise items available. These include things like keychains, mugs, and even toys. Each of these items is designed to capture the essence of the game and are often used as collectibles by fans.
The popularity of Guess Who? merchandise is a testament to the enduring appeal of the game. Whether you’re a fan of the game or simply enjoy collecting memorabilia, there is a wide range of merchandise available to suit your needs. With new items being released all the time, there has never been a better time to show your love for Guess Who?
Frequently Asked Questions About Guess Who?
What is the age range for playing Guess Who?
Guess Who? is a board game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages, but it is especially popular among children and families. The game is designed for 2-6 players, and the recommended age range for playing is 5 and up. However, younger children can also play with the help of adults or older siblings.
One of the reasons why Guess Who? is popular among children is that it is an excellent game for developing deductive reasoning skills. The game requires players to ask questions and make observations to figure out the identity of the hidden character. This helps children to practice critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In addition, Guess Who? is a fun and engaging game that can be played in a short amount of time. It is perfect for a quick family game night or as a way to pass the time on a road trip. The game is also portable and can be played anywhere, making it a convenient choice for families on the go.
Overall, Guess Who? is a versatile game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. Whether you are playing with a group of friends or with your family, Guess Who? is a classic game that is sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment.
Can I play Guess Who? solo?
Yes, it is possible to play Guess Who? solo. However, the traditional way of playing the game involves two or more players. In the solo version, you will be playing against the game itself.
To play solo, you will need the game board, game pieces, and the rulebook. Start by placing the game pieces on the starting positions on the board. The objective of the game is to figure out the identity of the hidden character by asking questions and collecting clues.
To make the game more challenging, you can set a timer for yourself and try to complete the game within a certain amount of time. You can also challenge yourself to guess the character within a limited number of questions.
Keep in mind that the rules for solo play may vary slightly depending on the version of the game you have. Be sure to read the rulebook carefully before starting the game.
How long does a game of Guess Who? typically last?
The duration of a game of Guess Who? can vary depending on the number of players and the level of difficulty of the mystery person. Typically, a game of Guess Who? can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but it can last longer if the players are new to the game or if the mystery person is particularly difficult to guess. The game ends when either all of the players have successfully guessed the mystery person or when the time limit for the game has been reached.
Are there any strategies to win Guess Who? more often?
Guess Who? is a popular board game that requires players to use their deductive skills to identify a hidden character. While the game is largely based on luck, there are several strategies that players can use to increase their chances of winning.
- Pay attention to the clues given by the opposing team. Each player is given a set of questions to ask the other team, and the answers to these questions can provide valuable information about the hidden character. Paying close attention to the clues given can help players narrow down their guesses and increase their chances of identifying the correct character.
- Use your powers strategically. Each player has special powers that can be used to gain an advantage in the game. These powers can be used to block your opponents or to help you narrow down your guesses. Use your powers strategically to gain an edge over your opponents.
- Observe the opposing team’s behavior. In Guess Who?, players can often give away clues about the hidden character through their behavior. Pay attention to the opposing team’s body language, tone of voice, and choice of words to gather additional clues about the character.
- Be creative with your questions. While the standard questions provided in the game can be helpful, players can also come up with their own questions to ask the opposing team. Be creative with your questions to gather additional information about the hidden character and to throw off your opponents.
- Practice, practice, practice. Like any game, Guess Who? requires practice to become proficient. Play the game as often as you can to improve your skills and to develop your own strategies for winning.
Can I create my own characters for Guess Who?
If you’re a fan of the classic board game Guess Who?, you might be wondering if you can create your own characters to use in the game. The answer is yes, you can create your own characters for Guess Who?. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you start creating your characters.
First, it’s important to make sure that the characters you create are appropriate for the game. Guess Who? is a game that is meant to be played by people of all ages, so you’ll want to make sure that your characters are not offensive or inappropriate in any way.
Second, you’ll want to make sure that your characters are distinct and easy to distinguish from one another. The game is based on asking questions and figuring out the identity of the mystery character, so it’s important that your characters are unique and easily identifiable.
Third, you’ll want to make sure that your characters fit within the game’s mechanics. Guess Who? has specific rules for how characters can be moved and how questions can be asked, so you’ll want to make sure that your characters fit within those rules.
Overall, creating your own characters for Guess Who? can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to the game. Just make sure to keep the game’s rules and appropriateness in mind when creating your characters.
How do I store the game components when not in use?
Proper storage of the game components is essential to ensure that they remain in good condition and are ready for the next game. Here are some tips on how to store the game components when not in use:
- Game board: The game board should be folded along the lines provided and placed in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. It is recommended to store the game board in its original box or a sturdy cardboard box to prevent damage.
- Game pieces: The game pieces, including the suspect cards, should be kept in their respective bags or boxes. It is important to keep them organized and separate to avoid confusion and to ensure that they are not damaged.
- Question cards: The question cards should be kept in a safe place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It is recommended to store them in a plastic sleeve or a small box to protect them from damage.
- Rulebook: The rulebook should be stored in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It is recommended to store it in its original box or a sturdy cardboard box to prevent damage.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Guess Who? game components remain in good condition and are ready for the next game.
FAQs
1. What is Guess Who?
Guess Who is a classic board game that was first published in 1982 by Hasbro. The game is designed for 2-6 players and involves asking questions to figure out the identity of a hidden character.
2. How do you play Guess Who?
To play Guess Who, one player selects a character card and places it face down on the table. The other players then ask yes or no questions to figure out the identity of the character. The questions can be about the character’s appearance, such as “does the character have blue eyes?” or “does the character have curly hair?”. The goal is to ask the right questions to narrow down the possibilities and eventually figure out the character’s identity.
3. What are the different character cards in Guess Who?
There are 24 different character cards in Guess Who, each with a unique name and description. The characters are a mix of men and women of different ages and ethnicities, and they have various occupations and personalities.
4. How long does a game of Guess Who take?
A game of Guess Who typically takes around 15-30 minutes to play, depending on the number of players and how quickly they ask questions.
5. Is Guess Who appropriate for all ages?
Guess Who is recommended for players aged 8 and up, as it requires some level of reading and comprehension. However, younger children can still play the game with the help of an adult or older sibling.
6. Can you play Guess Who with more than 6 players?
Guess Who is designed for 2-6 players, but it is possible to play with more than 6 players by dividing into teams. Each team can take turns asking questions and trying to figure out the character’s identity.
7. What is the objective of Guess Who?
The objective of Guess Who is to be the first player to figure out the identity of the hidden character by asking yes or no questions. The player who correctly guesses the character’s identity wins the game.
8. Can you play Guess Who with people who don’t speak the same language?
While language can be a barrier to playing Guess Who, it is still possible to play with people who speak different languages. The game is based on asking yes or no questions, so even if players don’t understand each other’s words, they can still use gestures and other nonverbal cues to play the game.
9. Where can I buy Guess Who?
Guess Who is widely available for purchase at most major retailers, both in-store and online. You can also find it on Hasbro’s website or on websites like Amazon.
10. Is Guess Who a popular board game?
Guess Who is a classic board game that has been enjoyed by millions of players around the world since its release in 1982. It remains a popular choice for family game nights and gatherings with friends.