growing up in the Bronx in the 1930’s i vividly remember playing the game of this chat group. I don’t recall what we called it, but i do remember that you would try to pile on top of the weakest link so as to cave in the group.
it was a lot of fun and as one has remarked, i don’t recall any injuries other than hurt pride.
also, only the boys would play this, no girls were involved, as it was probably too undignified for them plus the danger.