Library of teambuilding games & icebreakers

How to play:

Write down various safety scenarios on slips of paper (e.g., "using a fire extinguisher," "performing CPR") and place them in a hat. Divide employees into teams and have them take turns drawing a slip and acting out the scenario without speaking, while their team guesses what it is.

Safety charades showdown adds a playful twist to learning important safety procedures. It encourages teamwork and creativity while reinforcing vital safety knowledge. Watching coworkers try to mime "emergency exit plan" is always entertaining.

This is your opportunity to recreate one of your favourite family game shows, think Family Feud or The Price is Right, to name a few. The idea is simple, create a list of questions, divide players into teams and let the games begin!

How to play Company game show

Company g ame shows are a fantastic opportunity for employees to foster new relationships while enjoying a light-hearted and engaging online game. You can create separate group chats for your teams so they can discuss their answers before giving them.

Extreme rock, paper, scissors takes the traditional playground game to a new level. This time, Instead of battling it out in pairs, your employees will attempt to overthrow the competition in teams.

Great for: Energization

Duration: 10 minutes

You’ll need: Plastic hula hoops (approx. 15)

How to play:

• Lay the hoops in a line on the ground and leave a gap of 50cm between each one.
• Divide your group into two teams and position them at either end of the line of hoops.
• When you shout “Go!” one player from each team starts hopping through the hoops towards the opposition.
• When they meet in the middle, they play rock, paper, scissors.
• The loser exits the hoop and jogs back to their team. Meanwhile, the winner continues hopping forward towards the opposition and a player from the other team steps in to replace their fallen comrade.
• When the two players meet, they play rock, paper, scissors again.
• Play continues until a player reaches the opposing team’s starting hoop. The first team to land in their opponent's starting hoop wins.

How to play Jump over the imaginary ball

This is a warm-up game for many theater groups. It involves leaping over an imaginary ball. Everyone should stand in a circle and the leader will throw “the ball” to a participant. They jump over it and pretend that it rolls to another person for them to jump over. The game goes until everyone has had a chance to jump.

This game is another version of story-telling, but with a few twists that make it a little more involved. This game is really more of an improv exercise.

How to play Late for work

1. Begin by choosing a “stage” where the game will play out - it should be a spot that everyone present has a clear view of.
2. The first person will kick things off by entering the space and pretending to be late for work. They should come up with a funny or outlandish reason why they are late, and elaborate.
3. A second person will play the “boss” and ask why they are late. Here again, the more personality they show, the better. Once those two complete their “scene”, they sit down to observe the others, and the process begins again.
4. Two more volunteers will come up and improv the late to work scene, using a new work venue and new excuses. The game is complete once everyone has had a chance to pair off and do the exercise.

How to play Interdepartmental pitch battles

For this hybrid version, teams can collaborate online through virtual meeting platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, while those in the office can meet physically or join virtually. Remote team members can contribute their ideas via shared documents or collaboration tools like Miro or Slack. Each team presents their pitch live via video call, with remote judges participating online and in-office judges scoring live. The presentations can be recorded so that all participants can watch each team's ideas, ensuring everyone stays engaged.

How to play Invention-fest

A team that creates things together, stays together! Bring your group together to make something new. You can work as one large group but this is probably easier to facilitate if you break everyone up into smaller teams. Give people time to brainstorm ideas, and then come up with a workable prototype or model. This is a more in-depth activity that takes at least two days (one day for planning and one for bringing in supplies and building). A third day could be presenting the ideas and potentially having a panel judge the entries.

For this game, players guess words based on context clues. The pyramid is a collection of six words with three on the bottom, two in the center, and one at the top. To win the game, teams need to guess all of the words within the pyramid within the timeframe you set.

To play:

1. Break a large group into smaller teams.
2. Give one player on each team the pyramid.
3. The pyramid-holder should give hints to their teammates to describe each word without using the actual words of the item.
4. When a player guesses correctly, the pyramid-holder will move onto the next word. On the other hand, they can also say “pass” and return to the word later.
5. Every correct guess is worth a point.

Before you set the time limit, think about the difficulty of the words you chose. A good rule of thumb is 30 seconds per word (which is 3 minutes total), but you can add or take away time as necessary. This can be a fun group activity, too.

Every team's got its hiccups, but conflict resolution is the superhero cape. It saves the day by smoothing things over and turning tense moments into learning experiences.

Conflict resolution activity - Role play resolutions:

• Develop fictional workplace scenarios involving conflicts or disagreements.
• Pair colleagues and assign each pair a scenario to role-play.
• Partners take turns assuming the roles of individuals in the conflict and work together to find constructive solutions through communication and negotiation.
• After role-playing, each pair presents their conflict and proposed resolution to the larger group.
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This interactive activity hones conflict resolution skills, encourages creative problem-solving and enhances communication strategies.

This fun and interactive game helps employees to collaborate and polish their problem-solving skills. If you want to make it even more challenging, then you can set up obstacles or choose materials that will be tricky to pick up.

Here’s how to play the game:

1. Break a larger group into smaller teams of 3.
2. Hand each team a bucket of water filled with small objects (to represent radioactive waste). Grab things like tennis balls, blocks, clips, etc.
3. Put a smaller bucket on a table a few feet away from each team.
4. Participants need to use a rope with a square knot (or whatever other method they work out) to transfer the “waste” from the larger bucket into the smaller one.
5. The team that moves all of their waste first, wins. If everyone is moving at about the same pace, then the winner will be the group who moved the most in the amount of time you allocated.

This team-building activity allows individuals to express themselves playfully and creatively. It’s an excellent game for helping team members get to know one another more intimately. It would be well suited for an onboarding exercise or bringing together teams that typically work remotely.

How to play:

‍Split up into small teams and give each participant a piece of paper and drawing materials. Have them fold their paper into four sections and spend five to ten minutes drawing their responses to four questions. Questions can be personal or related to a workplace topic, such as “What do I expect from my team” or “What do I see in my professional future.”

After players finish drawing their responses, have them regroup with their team and discuss their visual answers.

Materials you’ll need: Paper and makers, general art supplies. Tables and chairs for drawing surfaces

How many people: Small to large teams (8-25+ people)

It’s one small drop for an egg, one giant leap for team creativity.

The premise of an Egg Drop Challenge is to build a structure that stops a raw egg from cracking when dropped from a height.

In a large group, it feels like part science experiment, part creative brainstorm (while being fully entertaining to watch). This simple but surprisingly strategic team activity is perfect for developing some of the key skills you need in the office. 

It’s a fast and creative way to watch teams plan, test, and occasionally mourn their brave little eggs in the name of innovation. 

Let’s break down the challenge for you:

What you’ll need

The Egg Drop Challenge doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a few common materials and the courage to watch your creation fall from the sky.

• Raw eggs: One per team for the main challenge, but 2 to 4 eggs should be used for design iterations

• Plastic straws: These will be the main frame for the protective shell

• Tape (masking or duct): This is the glue that holds the fate of the raw egg

• Scissors: Needed for trimming straws down into the perfect shape

• A timer: Teams should be working to a set time (20 minutes design time works best)

• Paper or card: Optional, but great for cushioning and creativity

• Measuring tape: Well, you need to make sure the drop height is fair, don’t you?

• Step ladder or balcony: Your official drop zone

• Tarp or sheet: This will save your floors from looking like hell’s kitchen

How to play (step-by-step instructions)

Follow these steps to set up the challenge, brief your teams, and watch as their creativity takes flight:

1. Introduce the challenge and set the scene

Announce the mission loud and clear: each team must design a device that will protect their raw egg from cracking when dropped from a set height. Tell them they’ll need to combine planning and construction, both against the clock, as they’re working to a countdown. The 

2. Form teams and give out materials

Depending on the number of people, create your teams of equal size. We tend to find four to five works best. Give each team the same supplies, so the playing field is completely even (no last-minute swap-outs or sneaky bubble wrap here!)

3. Build the best egg-protection device

Tell your teams they have 20 minutes to plan, test and build their structure. You could encourage teams to quickly sketch their designs first, before getting hands-on. Any method is allowed; wrapping, suspending, cushioning, just as long as it's made with the given materials (you’ll probably hear a few debates on gravity and air resistance here)

4. The drop test

Now comes the fated drop test. Choose your drop zone; a stairwell, balcony or step ladder will do the trick. Get everyone around and start the countdown. Each team gets just one shot to drop their creation. Here you could add a drumroll, or mock space-launch music if you want to turn up the tension.

5. Check for survivors

Once every egg has made its descent, it’s time for the grand reveal. Unwrap each structure carefully to see which designs survived and which ones got scrambled. Applaud the survivors, console the fallen, and don’t forget to take a photo of the mess (thankfully on the top of your tarp sheet).

Facilitator tip:

Make a point for teams to test early and adapt quickly. The most successful designs usually come from trial and error, not from overthinking. 

And one pro move could be: don’t reveal the exact drop height until the building time is over. A slight surprise element means designs need to be a bit flexible, and you’ll add a touch of suspense, too.

Variations and twists

Once your teams have mastered the standard version, try mixing things up with a few fun twists:

• Limit team materials: Reduce the number of straws or the amount of tape to force creative problem-solving under pressure.

• Higher stakes: Use multiple rounds, and increase the drop height for each round to raise the tension.

• Blindfold build: One teammate can’t see, relying entirely on verbal guidance from others.

• Remote/virtual adaptation: If you’re working with remote or hybrid teams, you can still run it online. Each person can build their design at home and record their drop for a team reveal.

Debrief: What was learned through the game?

On the surface, the Egg Drop Challenge looks like a lighthearted game, but beneath the laughter and flying tape is a perfect snapshot of teamwork in motion. After the cleanup (and any tears for fallen eggs), take a few minutes to reflect on what teams practiced:

• Collaboration under pressure: With time and materials limited, success will hinge on clear communication and shared decision-making.

• Creative problem-solving: Teams get to practice experimentation and are encouraged to think outside the box.

• Iteration: Trial and error will beat overplanning, as every cracked egg offers feedback for the next.

• Celebrating as a team: No matter if the landing was smooth or scrambled, the game is built on the foundation of teamwork, humour and collective pride.

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Wrap up by asking teams how these lessons mirror their day-to-day projects (because, much like the egg, good ideas also need careful handling).

FAQs:

What are the rules for the Egg Drop Challenge?

Teams must use only the provided materials to build a device that protects a raw egg from breaking when dropped from a height. Each team gets one attempt, and a surviving egg means victory.

What’s the best way to protect the egg for the drop?

Generally, soft padding will best absorb impact. On top of that, a structure that is designed to slow the fall can help, meaning you could try folding card as a material, too.

How high should you drop the egg?

Start with a moderate height (around 1.5 metres) and raise it after each round for more challenge. Outdoors or high ceilings give you more flexibility (and less chance of keeping the egg in one piece!).

Can you run the challenge indoors?

You absolutely can. You just need to make sure you’ve got enough space and protective sheets (for the inevitable eggsplosions). If you’re limited for space, go for lower drops or use a stairwell.

Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing adventure in the Culinary Exploration Challenge. Your team will explore diverse cuisines, test their culinary skills, and learn the art of teamwork in the kitchen. From preparing exotic dishes to mastering cooking techniques, this challenge is a feast for the senses. As you whip up delectable creations, you'll not only bond over food but also discover the recipe for effective collaboration.

Instructions

• Form cooking teams, ensuring a mix of culinary levels.
• Assign each team a unique cuisine to explore.
• Create challenges that involve cooking specific dishes or techniques.
• Teams gather ingredients, cook, and present their creations.
• Judge based on taste, presentation, and teamwork.

How to play the floor is lava

Light-hearted and more than a little bit silly, The Floor is Lava is another excellent indoor game that’s sure to get people giggling! More importantly, they’ll be working together, listening, demonstrating leadership skills, and solving problems.

The idea’s simple: break your team into 2 groups and challenge them to take turns crossing the room together without touching the floor (…because it’s lava). While one group attempts the crossing, the other can try to sabotage their efforts – moving items they’d otherwise use as stepping stones and/or placing obstacles in their way.

How to host a Photo caption contest

Pick out a funny meme or cool photo and ask everyone to come up with a clever caption. You can either have one person pick a winner, do so by committee, or share with the company and let audience applause dictate the most popular caption. This is a quick team-building activity and easy to put together, and a good option for when you have a short window of time to bring everyone together. This activity is an ideal choice if your current bandwidth only allows gathering everyone in the breakroom for an hour or so. Simply share the image the night before and let everyone bring their A-game in the morning.

Oh, Scattergories - that hilarious game that always leaves you scratching your head and laughing until your sides hurt. But did you know that this party favorite can be used in the office setting too?

How to play:

1. Choose a category and a letter.
2. Set a time limit for players to come up with answers.
3. Each player writes down as many answers as possible starting with the chosen letter.
4. Compare answers and eliminate any duplicates or invalid answers.
5. Award points for unique and valid answers. Repeat with a new category and letter.

Not only is Scattergories great for building team chemistry and boosting morale, but it's also a sneaky way to get everyone thinking outside the box and flexing their problem-solving muscles. So the next time you're stuck in a meeting that feels like a snooze-fest, bring out the Scattergories and watch the magic happen!

Body language is a big deal when it comes to active listening. It's like the unsung hero of effective communication. Think about it – when you're really listening, you naturally make eye contact, nod along, and maybe even lean in a bit. These little gestures show the speaker that you're engaged and tuned in. Plus, mirroring their body language can create a connection.

So, it got us at Surf Office thinking; What game could incorporate body language and active listening?

*Lightbulb ping moment*

Introducing Body Language Detective, a Surf Office exclusive!

How to play

1. Create scenario cards with various social situations or emotions. For example, "Job interview," "First date," "Conflict resolution," "Surprise party," "Job promotion celebration," and so on. Each card should describe the setting and the emotions or dynamics involved.
2. Gather the participants in a circle or sitting in a room.
3. One participant (the "actor") selects a scenario card without revealing it to the others.
4. The actor then starts enacting the scenario silently through body language and facial expressions only, without using any verbal communication.
5. The other participants (the "detectives") observe the actor's body language closely.
6. After a set period (e.g., 1-2 minutes), the actor stops the role-play.
7. The detectives then take turns discussing what they observed:

• What emotions or situations did they perceive?
• What specific body language cues led them to their conclusions?
• Did they notice any changes in body language during the role-play?

8. Once the detectives have discussed their observations, they collectively make a guess about the scenario being portrayed.

Charades is a classic family party game everyone knows and loves. It also lends itself perfectly to online team-building events, although beware, the game can become considerably more difficult due to the limited view provided by the camera.

How to play Charades

Playing charades online also means you can eliminate any chance of cheating (all too common in the traditional game) by asking the performer to mute their microphone before starting.

The perfect game for the artists on the team, Back-to-Back drawing encourages play and communication and would be an excellent activity for a company retreat.  This team-building exercise is less about problem-solving and relaxing and getting the chance to get to know one another.

How to play:

Have players split into two teams and face away from one another. One player gets a picture, and the other receives paper and drawing materials. The person with the image describes what and how to draw the image without identifying it. After ten minutes, players swap roles.

After each team member has described the object and produced an image, they can compare their work and see who made the most accurate drawing.

Materials you’ll need: Art supplies and simple images (think flowers, cars, etc.)  taken from a magazine or printed online.

How many people: Small to mid-sized teams (8-16 people)

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Explore more team bonding activities to spark creativity and strengthen communication within your team.

How to play Lip Sync Battle

Instructions: Divide participants into teams. Each team chooses a song and choreographs a lip-sync performance. Each team takes turns performing, and judges or fellow team members select the winning performance based on creativity, stage presence, and enthusiasm.

Materials needed: Music player, microphone (optional).

Lip Sync Battle allows team members to showcase their creativity, performance skills, and sense of humor. It promotes camaraderie, boosts morale, and creates a fun and entertaining atmosphere where everyone can participate and enjoy the performances.

How to play Balloon challenge

Start this fun and active energizer by inflating lots of balloons in the office (the more the merrier!). When you’re done, the challenge can commence:

The team’s job is to stop the balloons from touching the ground at all costs! Play for 5 to 10 minutes and explain there’ll be prizes if they succeed.

Want to give the game a competitive edge? Divide everyone into smaller teams and assign each one a bunch of balloons with the same color. They then have to work together to keep those particular balloons in the air (while simultaneously sabotaging the other teams’ efforts).

Bonus points if you can inflate all the balloons before anyone else arrives at the office! Trust us, the look on peoples’ faces when they walk through the door will be worth getting there early…

Executing agile principles usually requires your team members to be flexible and growth-oriented. Why not throw them a (light) curveball while they’re deep into an example project to let them practice adaptability? Rethinking your first approach keeps you on your toes and ready for changes as a project develops.

Set up:

Set a scenario with a challenge, such as drafting a basic project plan or sketching a concept product. Each person has a few minutes to get started. Then, introduce a sudden change in the “requirements” like shifting the target audience, adding a new feature, or changing the project scope. Each member needs to adapt to these new conditions, and hopefully, each twist in the tale creates a new opportunity. Regroup at the end to informally reflect on how curveballs in the project affected their work to build core agile strengths.

The Innovation Scramble challenge is an exercise in resourcefulness, creativity, and teamwork. As you brainstorm, prototype, and iterate, you'll discover how diverse perspectives can lead to breakthrough ideas. This activity not only hones problem-solving skills but also fosters an environment of collaborative ingenuity.

Instructions

• Create teams with a mix of analytical and creative thinkers.
• Present a problem statement or challenge that requires an innovative solution.
• Teams scavenge for materials and brainstorm ideas.
• Collaborate to design and build a prototype of your solution.
• Present your innovations and discuss the collaborative process.

How to play Blindfolded Obstacle Course

Instructions: Set up an obstacle course with various challenges. Divide participants into teams of two, with one person blindfolded and the other providing guidance. The sighted team member must guide their blindfolded partner through the course using verbal instructions.

Materials needed: Obstacles (cones, ropes, hula hoops, etc.), blindfolds.

Behold the Blindfolded Obstacle Course, where communication, trust, and teamwork collide in a spectacular display of stumbling and fumbling. Your intrepid team must conquer this treacherous path through sheer collaboration, active listening, and the occasional hilarious misstep. It's a crash course in empathy, where understanding is gained one blindfolded blunder at a time. If you liked this game, make sure to check out more of our tips on how to improve team cohesion!