How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Each participant secretly chooses a real place they have visited (city, country, or landmark).
- 2Others take turns asking 'Yes/No' questions (e.g., 'Is it in the Northern Hemisphere?' 'Is it a coastal city?').
- 3The goal is to pinpoint the location within 10-15 questions. If guessed correctly, the winner becomes the next 'traveler'.
Variations
Dream Destination: Guess a place they want to visit, not where they've been.
Street View Challenge: Use Google Earth/Street View, drop a pin, and guess where you landed.
Reverse Mode: The traveler gives 3 keywords first (e.g., 'Kangaroos,' 'Opera,' 'Surfing'), then guessing starts.
Hardcore Mode: Limit to only 5 questions to force high-quality inquiries.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Think of a place you've visited that left a strong impression. The rest of us are detectives who must locate you using only Yes/No questions. Who wants to be the first traveler?
Closing Script:
Did you notice? The most effective questions often split the possibilities in half, like a 'binary search.' This logic is super useful in our daily problem-solving too.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: This game requires no props but engages logical thinking. It's also a fantastic way to share personal travel stories, helping team members discover unexpected common ground.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Small hybrid groups
- Interview/Questioning skills warm-up
- Meeting warm-ups/fillers
Important Notes
- Avoid overly obscure private locations (like 'the deli downstairs'); stick to known geographic entities.
- Rotate who asks questions to ensure everyone gets a turn.
- If the group is stuck, allow the 'traveler' to give one key hint.
Ideas & Prompts
Yes/No Questions
Is it in the Northern Hemisphere?
Is it in Asia?
Is it a coastal city? / Is it landlocked?
Is it an island nation?
Is English the primary language there?
Is it summer there right now?
Is it famous for its food?
Is it a capital city?
Do you usually need to fly there (from here)?
Does it have ancient ruins?
Game FAQ
What if I'm bad at geography?
No problem! Ask fun questions like 'Do people eat spicy food there?' or 'Are there penguins?'.
What if I'm bad at geography?
No problem! Ask fun questions like 'Do people eat spicy food there?' or 'Are there penguins?'.
How to guess faster (Pro-Tips)?
Use 'Binary Search' logic. Ask 'Is it in Continent A?' first. If yes, you narrow it down; if no, you eliminate a huge chunk. Continent -> Region -> Features.
How to guess faster (Pro-Tips)?
Use 'Binary Search' logic. Ask 'Is it in Continent A?' first. If yes, you narrow it down; if no, you eliminate a huge chunk. Continent -> Region -> Features.
