h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

This 'game' is actually a form of malicious chain letter.

how do you mean? there's no letter involved, although I do understand the chain aspect.

It's transmitting information to others with the deiberate aim of causing harm - even if no one gives a toss about whether they're 'winning' the intention in passing on the information is to make them lose, and confer on them the 'obligation' to pass the ill wishes on or suffer the consequences (be technically a cheat).

That makes it malicious, from my understanding of the term. As for 'letter', well, the information may not be always passed on in paper form, but neither are chain emails, which are considered a form of chain letter. Since it is obviously a related kind of communication, I think calling it a 'form' of chain letter is reasonable.

it's hardly malicious though. There are no threats or supposed consequences - it's just a bit of fun really!