It is that time of year again; the Senior Assassin Games have begun! Senior Assassin is a popular end-of-year game played by high school seniors all over the country that combines strategy, stealth, and a lot of water guns. The idea is simple: each participant is assigned a target, and the goal is to “eliminate” them—usually by spraying them with a water gun—while avoiding being eliminated by someone else. As the game progresses, the circle tightens until only one player remains. For many students, it’s a memorable way to celebrate their final weeks of high school.
Part of what makes Senior Assassin so fun is the creativity it inspires. Players often come up with elaborate plans to catch their targets off guard, whether that means staking out a driveway early in the morning or disguising themselves to avoid recognition. There’s also a strong social element—friends share information, track movements, and sometimes form temporary alliances. The suspense of not knowing when or where someone might try to get you adds a constant thrill that keeps players engaged.
Senior at HHS, Allie Banks, notes that as the games begin, “I am so excited! I have always loved spectating Senior Assassin throughout my time in high school, and now I get to be a part of a school-wide tradition!” While Allie is understandably excited, junior Maggie Flynn, the president of the Class of 2027, is responsible for maintaining the rules and assigning targets for this year’s round of Senior Assassin, stating that, “It is stressful organizing the entire event. Over 200 people are participating, so it is a lot for me to set up, but I am so excited for them, and I am even more excited for my turn to participate!”
However, despite its playful nature, Senior Assassin can come with real risks if not handled responsibly. Running through neighborhoods or approaching people unexpectedly with objects that resemble weapons—even water guns—can alarm unknowing residents or lead to misunderstandings. In some cases, participants have been mistaken for suspicious individuals, causing panic or drawing attention from authorities. There are also safety concerns when players chase each other in cars or on foot without paying attention to their surroundings.
To reduce these risks, the games at Hingham High School have established clear rules before the game begins. Common guidelines include prohibiting any eliminations on school grounds, sporting events, or at workplaces, ensuring the game doesn’t interfere with responsibilities. Another important rule is not entering someone’s house without permission, which protects privacy and prevents uncomfortable or unsafe situations. As well as creating a rule that requires all participants to choose clearly identifiable water guns to avoid confusion.
When played responsibly, Senior Assassin can be a fun and unforgettable tradition. The key is balancing excitement with safety, making sure everyone involved—and the surrounding community—feels comfortable throughout the game.
