How Does the Traditional FLAMES Game Work?

FLAMES is an acronym standing for: Friends, Lovers, Affection, Marriage, Enmity, and Siblings. For generations across India, school and college friends have played this game on notebook margins during class breaks.

The Exact Mathematical Elimination Rule:

  1. Both names are written in lowercase and all matching letters shared between both names are crossed out (eliminated).
  2. The remaining uncrossed letters from both names are counted together to get the magic count number N.
  3. Starting with the letters [F, L, A, M, E, S], count cyclically up to N and strike out the letter landed on.
  4. Repeat this circular elimination process with the remaining letters until exactly one letter survives. That final letter reveals your outcome!

The Six Classic FLAMES Outcomes: