What is the Punch Buggy Car and What's the Story Behind the Game?
Most people have seen the iconic VW Beetle, but you may not have heard of the game “punch buggy,” also known as “slug bug”. A fun game for road trips or simple fun in the car, here’s why we think this game is so popular.
Road trip passengers across generations have played the “punch buggy” game. Known by the second name of “slug bug”, this car game has been a favorite way to keep everyone occupied and amused during long rides. It also serves as a celebration of one of the most recognizable
, the punch buggy game is based around the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. The exact history of the game is hard to nail down, but it remains a staple of road trips all the same.
How do you play punch buggy?
While the game of punch buggy is a fun way for riders to stay engaged during a road trip, it has an edge to it that other car games do not. According to
, the game revolves around punching other riders when you see a VW Beetle. This is where the "punch" in the name comes from.
Generally, the rules state that riders stay on the lookout for VW Bugs. When one rider sees a Beetle, they punch the arm of the other player and say "punch buggy" or "slug bug." Obviously, riders should be careful to not punch too hard as to keep the game fun and lighthearted.
Players can also add their own rules to make the game more fun.
notes that players can say "no punch-backs" to ensure that they aren't punched for the same Beetle, for example. They can also limit the game to only involving certain colors of Volkswagen Bugs or other stipulations.
The Volkswagen Beetle began its life in Germany during the 1930s. Under Hitler, the cars were made to be affordable and easily produced and maintained, and this is partially why they have their quirky design.
It took until well after World War II for the car to gain attention in the United States, as it didn't become popular until near the end of the 1950s. However, once the Beetle did gain traction, it became an icon. American cars were not small like the Bug, so it stood out.
In 1979, Volkswagen ended production of their signature small car. In the late 1990s, though, the Bug was brought back, and this revival was wildly popular. While Volkswagen is currently not producing new Beetle models, the brand is still famous.
The successful history of the VW Beetle is widely understood, but the history of the punch buggy game is more of a mystery. Motor Authority states that the first publication to use the words "slug bug" came in 1964. The term "punch buggy" was not seen until 14 years after this.
Why did it become the subject of a punching car game, though?
Well, it seems that this came simply because of how unique the Beetles looked. Seeing one on the road was something worth mentioning, and the name "slug bug" was already used. Punching another rider was a natural fit for the game.
Even though Volkswagen is not producing new Beetles right now, there are still plenty of Bugs on the road. This means that the game that generations have played will likely continue on.
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