White elephant number generator
Enter the players and each gets a random number that sets turn order. Number 1 opens a gift, the last number picks last but gets the most choice. Here is what that means for your strategy.
Running the whole game? Open the white elephant game night tool: turn order, steal limit and a live screen for the TV.
How to use the number generator
- Enter each player's name, one per line.
- Generate. Every player gets a unique number from 1 to the group size.
- Players go in order: number 1 opens a wrapped gift, the next player either steals or opens, and so on.
- For the full game with steal limits and a screen for the TV, use the white elephant game night tool. You can also print a rules card.
How numbers affect strategy
The number you get matters more than the gift you wrap. Number 1 has no choice: they must open something, and then they sit and watch it get stolen. The last player sees every gift and may steal anything, so they have the most information.
Middle numbers have a mix. They see a few unwrapped gifts, can steal a good one, and still might have theirs stolen afterward.
Is number 1 or the last number better?
The last number is usually better because the last player sees everything. Number 1 has a hidden advantage in many rule sets: after everyone else goes, number 1 is often allowed a final turn to swap with any gift. If your group uses that rule, number 1 may end up fine.
Rules vary. Decide before the game, and say it out loud: does number 1 get a last swap, and how many times can a gift be stolen before it is locked?
A steal limit of two or three per gift keeps one great gift from bouncing for twenty minutes. See steal rules.
Reverse order and other variations
- Reverse order: players go from the highest number to number 1. Good for a group where the same people always draw late.
- Redraw midway: after half the group goes, reshuffle numbers for the rest.
- Dice instead of numbers: roll for turn order. See the dice game.
- Number 1 swaps last: the first player may trade with anyone after the final turn.
How to hand out the numbers
In a room, write numbers on slips and have each person draw one, keep it hidden if you want a mystery, or reveal it if you want the group to plan. At a distance, use the generator and paste the result into the chat. Hide the numbers if your game is for a surprise, and tell people not to share until the game starts.
Running the whole game? Use the white elephant game night tool for turn order, steal limits and a TV screen. Run a game night
Frequently asked questions
How do you assign numbers in white elephant?
Give each player a unique random number. Number 1 goes first, and the order runs up to the last player. Draw from a bowl or use a generator.
Is it better to be first or last in white elephant?
Last has the most information and the most steal options. First has no choice but can get a final swap in many rule sets. Check your rules.
What is reverse order white elephant?
Players go from the highest number down to 1, so late numbers act first. It is a way to balance a group that always draws late.
How many players do I need?
About 6 to 30 works well. Under six there is little to steal, and over 30 the game runs long.
Try it now
A draw takes about a minute. No signup, no email, a private link for everyone.
Run a game night- Couples & exclusions
- Wishlists & anonymous questions
- Deletes itself in 60 days
Doing Secret Santa instead? Create your group, free
Ready when you are
Make a draw in a minute. No signup, no email, private links for everyone.