Whamaggedon starts today.
It is official. The same rules apply for MARIAHPOCALYPSE. It starts now, so even if you were hit last month, your slate is clean.
As the holiday season kicks into full gear, so too does the annual challenge that has become a beloved tradition for many: Whamaggedon. For those unfamiliar, Whamaggedon is a playful game that tests one’s ability to avoid hearing WHAM’s iconic Christmas classic, “Last Christmas,” for as long as possible during the holiday season. This quirky challenge has garnered a dedicated following, and its rules are both simple and delightfully diabolical.
The Rules
- The 1st Rule
The objective is to go as long as possible without hearing WHAM’s Christmas classic, “Last Christmas,” or Mariah Carey’s pervasive hit, “All I want for Christmas Is You.” While it might sound easy at first, the ubiquity of these festive tunes during December makes it a surprisingly difficult task. From shopping malls to radio stations, they have a way of sneaking up on even the most vigilant participants. - The 2nd Rule
The game starts on December 1st and finishes at the end of December 24th. Participants use their local timezones to mark the start and end of the challenge. Whether you’re in the heart of Europe or anywhere else in the world, the countdown begins at midnight on the first of December and concludes at the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve. This tight timeframe adds to the intensity and excitement of the game, as players must remain on high alert throughout the holiday season. - The 3rd Rule
Only the original version of “Last Christmas” by WHAM applies. This means that participants are free to enjoy remixes, covers, and other adaptations of the song without fear of elimination. This rule offers a bit of a respite and allows players to indulge in the many creative takes on the classic tune, which can be a fun way to stay in the holiday spirit while still adhering to the challenge. Similarly, for Mariahpocalypse, only the original version of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” will get you out, so feel free to enjoy the covers and remixes of this holiday favorite as well. - The 4th Rule
You’re out as soon as you recognize the song. The moment those familiar notes hit your ears and you realize you’re hearing WHAM’s “Last Christmas,” your game is over. There’s no going back, and the only thing left to do is embrace your fate and perhaps share your loss with others who have fallen victim to the catchy holiday hit. The same rule applies to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” if you’re participating in Mariahpocalypse. - Bonus
Participants are encouraged to post on social media with the #whamageddon hashtag when they get hit. This adds a communal aspect to the challenge, as players from around the world can share their experiences, commiserate with fellow losers, and celebrate the survivors. The hashtag creates a sense of camaraderie and makes the game even more enjoyable. For those playing Mariahpocalypse, sharing your moment of defeat with the #mariahpocalypse hashtag is equally encouraged.
PvP? While the primary goal of Whamaggedon is survival, there’s an unspoken code of conduct among players. While technically you can attempt to sabotage your friends by deliberately exposing them to “Last Christmas,” the spirit of the game is one of mutual respect and friendly competition. The intention is for everyone to enjoy the challenge and see how long they can last, rather than turning it into a cutthroat battle royale. So, the general rule is: don’t be a dick, mkay? The same etiquette applies to Mariahpocalypse—let’s keep the spirit of fun alive and avoid deliberately sending others into the realm of Mariah’s holiday hit.
Whamaggedon is not just about avoiding a song; it’s about embracing the fun and silliness of the holiday season. It’s a light-hearted way to engage with the festive spirit and connect with others through a shared challenge. The game’s popularity has grown over the years, and it has even inspired spin-offs like Mariahpocalypse, where participants try to avoid Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
Strategies for Survival To succeed in Whamaggedon, participants often develop a range of strategies to avoid hearing “Last Christmas.” These can include:
- Avoiding Public Spaces: Shopping malls, grocery stores, and other public places are high-risk zones where the song is likely to be played. Minimizing time spent in these areas can reduce the chances of an accidental encounter.
- Curating Playlists: Sticking to personal playlists and avoiding radio stations can help control the music you hear. Many players create holiday playlists that specifically exclude WHAM’s hit to ensure they stay safe.
- Using Technology: Noise-canceling headphones and music streaming services can be invaluable tools. They allow you to curate your listening experience and block out potential threats in public spaces.
- Staying Informed: Social media and community groups can provide updates on high-risk areas and times. Staying connected with fellow players can offer valuable tips and warnings about where the song has been recently heard.
- Having Fun: Ultimately, the best strategy is to enjoy the game and not take it too seriously. Whamaggedon is meant to be a fun, festive challenge, and embracing the spirit of the season, whether you win or lose, is what it’s all about.
As December progresses, the tension builds, and the number of players still in the game dwindles. Each day without hearing “Last Christmas” feels like a small victory, and the anticipation of potentially being “whammed” keeps participants on their toes. When the clock strikes midnight on December 24th, those who have managed to avoid the song can celebrate their triumph, while those who have been caught can share their stories and laughs.
In conclusion, Whamaggedon is a delightful holiday tradition that brings a sense of playful competition to the festive season. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time player, the challenge of avoiding “Last Christmas” is sure to add an extra layer of excitement to your December. So, as the game begins today, we wish all participants the best of luck. May your ears remain WHAM-free, and may you enjoy every moment of this joyful, silly, and thoroughly entertaining holiday game. And for those brave souls also participating in Mariahpocalypse, may you navigate the holiday season with equal parts vigilance and good cheer.
