Quick games

Word and guess games

Short, low-prep games - Taboo, 20 questions, word chain, and “guess the colleague” - for meeting openers and breaks.

Players: 4-30
Duration: 5-20 minutes
Energy level: Calm
Works online: Yes

How to play - step by step

1
Pick one game and explain the rules in two sentences.
2
Start with a volunteer who answers or leads.
3
Rotate turns around the group, keeping each round fast.
4
Use a timer of 30-60 seconds to keep the pace.
5
Stop when the energy is up and move on to the agenda.

Benefits

Boosts energy and focus in just five to ten minutes.
Works as a meeting opener or a break between sessions.
Needs no equipment and suits online calls.
Builds a habit of fun at work without a big event.

What you need

None for most games.
Optional: Taboo cards and a timer.

Rules

Keep it light and kind.
Anyone may pass.
Stop at the time limit.

Scoring and winning

Optional: a point for each correct guess; or play just for fun.

Riddles to start with

Q1.What has keys but cannot open locks?Show answer

Answer: A keyboard.

Q2.The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?Show answer

Answer: Footsteps.

Q3.What gets wetter as it dries?Show answer

Answer: A towel.

Q4.What can you catch but not throw?Show answer

Answer: A cold.

Variations

Word chain: each player says a word beginning with the last letter of the previous word.
20 questions: one person thinks of a thing, and the group asks yes/no questions.
Taboo: describe a word without using five forbidden words.
Guess the colleague: read three anonymous fun facts and the group guesses who it is.

Playing it online

Use games the chat can run - word chain and 20 questions need no tools.
Use the “raise hand” feature to take turns.

Tips for the host

Rotate who leads so everyone takes a turn.
Pick a game that fits the mood of the meeting.

Mistakes to avoid

Letting a game run too long.
Words or topics that are not inclusive.

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