The start of the game was announced as a surprise to the players , who were told that they would be playing in the clothes on their backs , most thinking they were getting publicity shots before the game started , and that no more supplies would be given to them . The start of the game was announced as a surprise to the contestants , who were told that they would be participating in the clothes on their backs , most believing they were getting publicity shots prior to the contest , and that no additional supplies would be given to them .