How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Tell the group they are marooned on an island with 10 items, but can only keep 5.
- 2Present the list of items (e.g., rope, knife, water filter, tarp, etc.).
- 3As a group, they must discuss and agree on which 5 items to keep for their survival.
- 4This reveals group decision-making dynamics and priorities.
Variations
Solo First, Then Discuss: Everyone ranks items privately before group debate to surface diverse thinking.
Expert Consultation: Assign one person as 'survival expert' who can veto one choice.
Silent Voting: After discussion, do a final anonymous vote to avoid groupthink.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Your ship has capsized. You have minutes to grab 5 items before the wreckage sinks. Choose wisely from the list below. First, review silently for 30 seconds; then debate to survive.
Closing Script:
What swayed your final choices—criteria, persuasion, or consensus technique? Capture lessons about prioritization and decision rules.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: A shared constraint surfaces prioritization logic, influence patterns, and how the team resolves disagreement—useful for real project trade‑offs.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Decision‑making workshops
- New teams practicing consensus
- 15–20 minute retros with a twist
Important Notes
- Prevent one voice from dominating; rotate who summarizes options
- Clarify ‘realistic items only’ vs. playful options before starting
- Timebox debate and require a final decision mechanism
Ideas & Prompts
Survival Items
Compass
Box of Matches
50ft Nylon Rope
Signaling Mirror
First Aid Kit
Solar Blanket
Hunting Knife
Water Purification Tablets
10L of Water
Fishing Kit
Shark Repellent
Bottle of Rum (Disinfectant/Morale)
Flare Gun
Mosquito Net
Portable Radio (No Batteries)
Game FAQ
Can we use items for unintended purposes?
Yes! Creativity is encouraged (e.g., using Rum as fuel or antiseptic).
Can we use items for unintended purposes?
Yes! Creativity is encouraged (e.g., using Rum as fuel or antiseptic).
How do we reach consensus if stuck?
Use dot voting: everyone gets 5 dots to distribute across their top choices. Highest total wins.
How do we reach consensus if stuck?
Use dot voting: everyone gets 5 dots to distribute across their top choices. Highest total wins.
