That’s Not a Hat

About this board game

That’s Not a Hat is a memory and bluffing game for 3–8 players that takes about 15 minutes to play. Players give gifts to one another while trying to remember who gave each item and which gift is in front of them.

At first, remembering a few items sounds easy. As the game continues, however, players must keep track of the gifts moving between them and the people connected to each gift. The challenge lies in maintaining that information as play unfolds.

• Give gifts to other players.
• Try to remember who gave what.
• Keep track of the gift in front of you.
• Bluff when you cannot remember, aiming to avoid a penalty point.

When memory fails, confidently claiming an answer may be the best way to avoid a penalty point. That creates a playful tension between genuine recall and a well-timed bluff, as players decide whether they truly know the gift’s history or need to pretend.

That’s Not a Hat keeps its central challenge easy to understand: remember the gifts, follow their connections, and respond when asked. Its short playing time makes it a compact choice for a group looking for a memorable challenge with 3–8 players.

Released in 2023, That’s Not a Hat turns ordinary gift-giving into an unforgettable test of memory and bluffing. Can you remember a few items—or will you need to bluff your way past the next penalty point?