How to Play Wicked Game on Acoustic Guitar?

Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game is a hauntingly beautiful song, known for its smooth melody and atmospheric guitar sound. While originally played with a dreamy electric guitar tone, it translates beautifully to acoustic guitar with the right approach.

In this guide, I’ll cover:

• The correct tuning and chords
• The iconic picking pattern
• Strumming techniques for the chorus
• Fingerpicking vs. strumming options
• Tips to capture the song’s emotional depth
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Let’s dive in!

Tuning & Chords Used in Wicked Game

Standard Tuning (E A D G B E)

The song is played in standard tuning, making it easy to pick up and play on any acoustic guitar.

Chords Used in Wicked Game

The song revolves around just three simple chords, making it great for beginners:

B Minor (Bm)

E|–2–|

B|–3–|

G|–4–|

D|–4–|

A|–2–|

E|–X–|

A Major (A)

E|–0–|

B|–2–|

G|–2–|

D|–2–|

A|–0–|

E|–X–|

E Major (E)

E|–0–|

B|–0–|

G|–1–|

D|–2–|

A|–2–|

E|–0–|

The Iconic Wicked Game Picking Pattern

The intro and verses use a delicate picking pattern that creates the song’s signature dreamy feel. Here’s how to play it:

E|——-2——–0——–0——–0–|

B|——3-3——2-2——0-0——0-0-|

G|—–4—4—-2—2—-1—1—-1—1|

D|—-4——–2——–2——–2—–|

A|—2—————–2——–2——|

E|————X————————|

How to Play the Picking Pattern:

1. Use your thumb for the bass notes (A and E strings).
2. Your index and middle fingers should handle the B and G strings.
3. Keep a steady and relaxed picking motion for a smooth sound.
4. Play slowly at first and build up speed as you get comfortable.

Strumming Pattern for the Chorus

For the chorus, you can switch from fingerpicking to a soft downstroke strumming pattern to add dynamics to the song.

A good acoustic strumming pattern is:

↓ ↓ ↑ ↑ ↓ ↑ (Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up)

Keep the strumming light and fluid to maintain the song’s dreamy and emotional vibe.

Fingerpicking vs. Strumming: Which One to Use?

• Fingerpicking: Ideal for the intro and verses to capture the original song’s feel.
• Strumming: Works well in the chorus to build momentum and emotion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Wicked Game

Step 1: Learn the Picking Pattern

• Play it slowly and with control.
• Keep your fingers close to the strings.

Step 2: Play the Verse Chords

• Alternate Bm – A – E in a steady rhythm.
• Stick to fingerpicking for the best effect.

Step 3: Transition to the Chorus

• Use light strumming to add a fuller sound.
• Maintain a soft and flowing feel.

Step 4: Play the Full Song

• Combine all elements and play along with the track.
• Adjust dynamics between fingerpicking and strumming.

Adding More Style & Emotion

To truly capture the atmosphere of Wicked Game, try these techniques:

• Use Light Reverb: If possible, add some reverb for an ambient effect.
• Soft Palm Muting: Lightly mute the bass notes for a percussive touch.
• Dynamic Picking: Play softer in verses, louder in the chorus.
• Let the Notes Ring: Avoid muting strings too early to maintain the song’s resonance.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

The Picking Pattern Feels Too Difficult?

• Slow down and practice one chord at a time.
• Use a metronome to keep timing steady.

Strumming Sounds Too Harsh?

• Use lighter downstrokes.
• Strum closer to the bridge for a softer tone.

Chord Transitions Are Sluggish?

• Practice switching between Bm, A, and E separately.
• Keep fingers close to the fretboard for quicker changes.

FAQs about Playing Wicked Game on Acoustic Guitar

Final Thoughts

Playing Wicked Game on acoustic guitar is an incredible way to bring out its emotional depth. By mastering the picking pattern, verse chords, and strumming dynamics, you’ll be able to recreate its dreamy, melancholic sound.

Take your time, practice regularly and most importantly—enjoy playing!

Happy playing! J