Dictionary :: Games

Glossary of game theory terms.

Game of Chicken

Scenario

Two hooligans with something to prove drive at each other on a narrow road. The first to swerve loses faces among his peers. If neither swerves, however, a terminal fate plagues both.

Description

There are two pure strategy equilibria in the game of chicken (or chicken game). A different pure strategy equilibrium is preferred by each player. Both equilibria are Pareto optimal. A mixed strategy equilibrium also exists.

Example

Driver 2
stay swerve
Driver 1 stay -100,-100 1,-1
swerve -1,1 0,0

General Form

Player 2
L R
Player 1 U a,w b,x
D c,y d,z
Where the following relations hold:
b>d>c>a
y>z>x>w

updated: 1 September 2006
HOW TO CITE THIS ENTRY