Draw Your Neighbor: Fun Virtual Icebreaker (2025)
A hilarious challenge where everyone draws their colleague on a video call without looking at their screen.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1On a video call, have everyone pin the video of the person to their right.
- 2Without looking down at their paper/drawing tool, everyone tries to draw a portrait of that person in 60 seconds.
- 3At the end, everyone holds up their masterpiece for a good laugh.
Materials Needed
- Paper and marker, or a digital drawing tool
Variations
- Timed Rounds: Do 3 rounds with different neighbors—best portrait wins a shout-out.
- Profile Pic Mode: For camera-shy folks, let them pin a profile picture instead.
- Gallery Walk: After drawing, do a silent gallery view before reveals to build anticipation.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Pin your neighbor’s video. Without looking down, draw their portrait in 60 seconds. Embrace the wobble—speed over perfection!
Closing Script:
What helped you recognize features quickly—silhouette, hair, or accessories? Keep this bias‑for‑essentials in our visual communication.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Blind contour constraints reduce self‑judgment and create shared laughter. It trains observation, fast decision‑making, and psychological safety.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Virtual socials
- Creative warm‑ups
- 4–12 person groups
Important Notes
- Avoid mocking appearance; celebrate the fun, not realism
- Offer camera‑off alternatives (use profile pics) if preferred
- Keep rounds short (45–60s) to sustain energy
Game FAQ
What if someone's uncomfortable being drawn?
Offer the profile-pic option or let them be the 'judge' instead of a subject.
Do we need artistic skills?
Nope! The worse the drawing, the better the laughs. Skill isn't the point—fun is.
