Marooned
A problem-solving game that encourages group discussion and consensus-building.
How to Play
- 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.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
"Youâre stranded with 10 itemsâkeep only 5. First, skim the list silently for 30 seconds; then discuss tradeâoffs and agree on your five."
Closing Script:
"What swayed your final choicesâcriteria, persuasion, or consensus technique? Capture lessons about prioritization and decision rules."
Why This Works
A shared constraint surfaces prioritization logic, influence patterns, and how the team resolves disagreementâuseful for real project tradeâoffs.
Best For
- Decisionâmaking workshops
- New teams practicing consensus
- 15â20 minute retros with a twist
Important Notes
- Prevent one voice from dominating; rotate who summarizes options
- Clarify ârealistic items onlyâ vs. playful options before starting
- Timebox debate and require a final decision mechanism