Rock Paper Scissors Tournament: High-Energy Team Game
Turn a simple game into an epic tournament! Losers become cheerleaders for the winners, building massive energy and team spirit.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Everyone finds a partner and plays one round of Rock, Paper, Scissors.
- 2The winner advances, and the loser becomes the winner's 'cheerleader'.
- 3Winners find new opponents. When a winner wins again, their cheerleader and the opponent's cheerleader now cheer for them.
- 4Continue until two finalists face off with huge cheering sections!
Variations
- Virtual Version: Use Zoom reactions (thumbs for rock, clap for paper, raised hand for scissors) and breakout pairs.
- Theme Twist: Replace RPS with themed gestures (wizard beats dragon, dragon beats knight, knight beats wizard).
- Speed Rounds: 5-second time limit per match to keep intensity high.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Pair up! We’re running a Rock–Paper–Scissors tournament. If you lose, you become your opponent’s cheerleader. Keep finding new winners until we reach a grand final!
Closing Script:
What a finish! That cheering wall-of-sound is team spirit in action—carry that energy into the rest of our session.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Clear rules and fast rounds build instant momentum. When ‘losers’ become fans, elimination turns into inclusion and the whole group stays engaged.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Large groups that need a quick energy spike
- After-lunch re-energizers
- Kickoffs and offsites
Important Notes
- Mind the volume and nearby teams; set a 'max cheer' level if needed.
- Ensure space and mobility access—offer a seated/gesture-only version.
- Timebox rounds to keep the bracket flowing.
Game FAQ
How long does a full tournament take?
With 20 people, about 5–7 minutes. Double the group, add 2–3 minutes.
What if someone doesn't want to cheer loudly?
Offer 'silent cheer' options like waving or clapping. Volume is optional, support isn't.
