How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Take turns performing. Imagine you are holding a specific object (e.g., a hot slice of pizza, a heavy dumbbell, a struggling kitten).
- 2You need to 'show' it through gestures (how you hold it), weight (is it heavy?), and sensory details (is it hot? does it smell?).
- 3You can use verbal descriptions (e.g., 'Whoa, it's slippery!'), but cannot name the object directly. Others guess.
- 4Limit each turn to 60-90 seconds.
Variations
Sales Pitch: You are a top salesperson pitching this invisible product. Describe its features and benefits, but never name it.
Silent Mode: No words allowed! Rely entirely on body language and facial expressions (Charades style).
Relay Mode: Person A passes the invisible object to Person B. Person B must 'catch' it accurately (maintaining weight/shape), then transform it into something else and pass to C.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
We're going to do an improv challenge. Reach into the 'invisible treasure chest' and pull out an object. Pretend you're really holding it—feel its weight, temperature, and texture. Who can make us see it?
Closing Script:
Did you notice? The most convincing performances weren't about exaggerated moves, but precise details like 'weight' and 'grip'. In communication, specific details are often more persuasive than abstract adjectives.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: This game forces everyone to engage observation and precise expression without visual aids. It's a great micro-training for improv and a perfect way to break awkward silence.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Interview/Discovery warm-up
- Team creativity exercises
- Meeting brain breaks
Important Notes
- Keep demonstrations concise; don't turn it into a 10-minute monologue.
- Keep object choices neutral and work-appropriate (avoid ambiguity).
- Encourage the first person who guesses correctly to be the next performer, passing the 'baton'.
Ideas & Prompts
Difficulty Levels
Easy: Toothbrush, Apple, Smartphone
Medium: Melting Ice Cream, Lightsaber, Heavy Bowling Ball, A steaming cup of coffee
Hard: An angry cat, A balloon trying to escape, A very tight invisible sweater, An extremely fragile antique vase
Workplace
Jammed Printer
Empty Water Cooler
Out-of-focus Projector
Monday Morning Alarm Clock
Leisure
Unstable Selfie Stick
Overweight Suitcase
Applying Sunscreen
Reeling in a Big Fish
Game FAQ
What if I can't think of anything?
No worries! Pick one from our 'Idea Bank' or just act out the last thing you ate.
What if I can't think of anything?
No worries! Pick one from our 'Idea Bank' or just act out the last thing you ate.
How to make it more realistic (Pro-Tips)?
Focus on 'physics'. Is it heavy? Tense your muscles. Is it hot? Move your fingers quickly. Is it slippery? Be careful. Small physical reactions add huge credibility.
How to make it more realistic (Pro-Tips)?
Focus on 'physics'. Is it heavy? Tense your muscles. Is it hot? Move your fingers quickly. Is it slippery? Be careful. Small physical reactions add huge credibility.
How to play remotely/online?
Adjust your camera to show your upper body and hands. Stand back from the screen a bit to create more space and allow for better body language visibility.
How to play remotely/online?
Adjust your camera to show your upper body and hands. Stand back from the screen a bit to create more space and allow for better body language visibility.
