a game at which two can play

Something (often deceptive or hurtful) that both parties involved in a situation could do. The phrase typically prefaces an act of retaliation. Did she really start a rumor about me? Well, gossip is a game at which two can play—I'll make sure the whole school is talking about her by tomorrow morning! Stu's been getting here early to impress the boss, so here I am, too—that's a game at which two can play! You better be prepared for the repercussions before you prank the captain of the football team. Pranks are a game at which two can play, you know.