Does Volkswagen, the company, know what kind of crazy game they started with the invention of the Beetle? Do people who drive Volkswagen Beetles know what happens when they take their whip and drive around? Do they play punch buggy with their own buggy? Has this ever happened to you?
You’re casually walking down the street with some friends, and a red Volkswagen Beetle drives by. The next thing you know, this happens...
“BLUE PUNCH BUGGY, NO PUNCH BACK!”
“AWW WHAT THE HECK! WHERE?”
“NOT AGAIN!”
“I DIDN’T SEE IT, IT’S NOT FAIR!”
This seemingly harmless game quickly escalates to include other vehicles. Next thing you know...
“WHITE TOYOTA PRIUS!”
“BMW, BLACK!”
“BLUE MINI COOPER!”
“I SEE A SILVER NISSAN ALTIMA!”
“OH MY GOD, STOP!!!”
Don’t get me wrong. I love playing punch buggy. In my group of friends, I’m most likely the one to instigate such an observational “I SPY” type of game. I believe it provides many benefits. These benefits include showcasing your fun personality (which may be deemed annoying if it occurs too often), a conversation starter and even an awkward silence remover. All of which ultimately allows for bonding and communication to occur.
But everyone plays differently, so it is important to remember a few things.
1. Know the cars you are including in the game.
It is not fair to include cars that not all participants know. For example, I never knew what a Toyota Prius looked like until I got punched for it several times. Including a car that only you know is like giving yourself an unfair advantage and a title called “The Cheater.” You would not want that, at least you shouldn’t.
2. Remember to call out the color of the vehicle you spot.
Everyone needs to be able to see the car, or else it does not count. Therefore, it is important to be able to indicate the color and where it is. If you punch for something that only you saw, who's to say that you saw it?
3. It’s already unexpected enough, let’s not hit too hard.
There are some people that bruise easily. I’m talking about me, so let’s take it easy. It’s fun to finally be able to punch someone after being punched so many times, so it is understandable that you want to make the most out of it. But come on, let’s not do it every time.
4. It’s just a game.
I repeat, it is just a game. It is not something worth getting worked up about, but once it starts, don’t think that you can stop playing. The game is never ending.
Sure, it is considered child’s play and it’s 80 percent based on luck, but it is a fun way to stay alert of your surroundings when you’re out and about with your friends, which is important, especially at this time when going outside is dangerous.
Anyways, the main takeaway from this game is that it is meant to be lighthearted and fun. Let’s keep it that way. If it is taken too far, then ... Volkswagen, you should stop producing Beetles.
