What word means before the game?

There isn't one single perfect word for "before the game". The best word will depend on the context. Here are some options with different nuances:

General:

* Pre-game (most common and direct)

* Ante-game (less common, more formal)

* Prior to the game

* Beforehand

Specific to preparation:

* Warm-up (if referring to physical preparation)

* Practice

* Rehearsal (if referring to a play or performance)

* Strategizing (if focusing on planning)

More specific to a particular game:

* Pre-match (for a sporting event)

* Pre-show (for a concert or theatrical performance)

The best word will depend on the specific context of your writing.