Small group settings often come with a unique challenge: awkward silences. Whether it’s a new team meeting, a casual gathering, or a virtual brainstorming session, those quiet moments can feel endless. Icebreaker games offer the perfect solution—turning silence into laughter and hesitant small talk into genuine conversations.

These games go beyond small talk, helping participants build trust, share experiences, and feel comfortable. Whether you’re looking for quick laughs, creative collaboration, or a meaningful way to kick off a meeting, this list has something for everyone.

Ready to transform your group dynamics? Let’s dive into the best icebreaker games your small group will actually enjoy.

Classic Icebreaker Games

Timeless and simple games that everyone knows and loves.

When it comes to breaking the ice, sometimes the simplest games are the most effective. These timeless options require minimal setup and are perfect for getting everyone involved quickly.

1. Wordsmith

Players needed: 2+ players, best with 4+

Wordsmith is an exciting team-based word game where players collaborate to create as many words as possible from a set of seven letters. Each team works against the clock, aiming to score the most points by forming unique words. Longer words earn higher scores, and using all seven letters earns a special bonus.

With levels ranging from Apprentice to Grandmaster, this game is perfect for testing your vocabulary, teamwork, and quick thinking.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Once installed, go to Braid’s game library or use the /braid Wordsmith command to start a new game. Select a channel, choose the number of teams, and set a time limit.

Each team will receive a direct message (DM) with a set of seven letters. Players work together to brainstorm and list as many words as possible before time runs out. Words are scored based on length, and using all seven letters earns a special bonus. The team with the highest score wins.

Sample gameplay

For example, if the letters are "R, E, L, T, T, E, S," your team might come up with words like "let," "rest," "settle," and "letter." If you use all seven letters to form "letters," your team scores a bonus, boosting your overall points.

Tips for winning Wordsmith

• Brainstorm quickly by sharing ideas and listing words as fast as you can.

• Focus on forming longer words to maximize your score.

• Use all seven letters to earn bonus points.

• Communicate efficiently by assigning roles within your team, such as one player focusing on base words while another adds prefixes or suffixes.

Wordsmith combines teamwork, creativity, and a touch of friendly competition to create an engaging experience that everyone will enjoy.

2. Two Truths and a Lie

Players needed: 2+ players

Two Truths and a Lie is a classic icebreaker game that helps players learn more about each other in a fun and engaging way. Each player will take turns sharing three statements about themselves—two that are true and one that is false. The rest of the group must guess which statement is the lie.

This game works well in small groups, fostering conversation and laughter as players reveal surprising facts about themselves.

How to play

Each player takes a moment to think of two true statements and one false statement about themselves. When it’s their turn, they share all three statements with the group in any order. The rest of the players discuss and vote on which statement they believe is the lie.

After everyone has guessed, the player reveals the correct answer. The game continues until everyone has had a turn. This game can be played casually or with a point system where players earn points for correctly identifying lies.

Sample gameplay

A player might say:

1. "I once met a famous actor at an airport."

2. "I have never eaten pizza."

3. "I can speak three languages."

The group discusses and votes on which statement they think is the lie. If they correctly guess that the player has, in fact, eaten pizza before, they win the round.

Tips for winning Two Truths and a Lie

• Choose statements that are believable to make it harder to guess the lie.

• Mix up the order of truths and the lie each time to keep the game unpredictable.

• Keep your facial expressions neutral when revealing your statements.

• Use fun or unexpected truths to make the game more engaging.

Two Truths and a Lie is a great way to break the ice, uncover hidden facts about teammates, and spark fun conversations.

3. Would You Rather

Players needed: 2+ players

Would You Rather is a simple and entertaining icebreaker that sparks fun debates and gets people talking. Players take turns choosing between two hypothetical scenarios, often leading to laughter and revealing insights into each person’s preferences.

The game works in any setting—whether in-person or virtual—and can range from lighthearted to thought-provoking questions, making it a versatile choice for small groups.

How to play

One player poses a "Would you rather" question to the group, offering two choices. Each player picks their preferred option and, if desired, explains their reasoning. The game continues with different players asking questions, or a moderator can prepare a list in advance.

If played in a competitive format, the group can vote on the most popular choice, and players who align with the majority earn a point.

Sample gameplay

A player asks, “Would you rather be able to fly or be invisible?”
Another asks, “Would you rather always have to sing instead of talk or dance instead of walk?”
Each player shares their choice and reasoning, leading to fun discussions and debates.

Tips for winning Would You Rather

• Choose unexpected or difficult scenarios to make the game more interesting.

• Ask follow-up questions to spark deeper discussions.

• Tailor questions to the group’s interests to keep everyone engaged.

• Mix silly and serious questions for variety.

Would You Rather is a fantastic way to break the ice, encourage creativity, and get to know your group in a relaxed and entertaining way.

4. The Human Knot

Players needed: 4+ players

The Human Knot is a fun, hands-on icebreaker that encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. Players physically link hands in a tangled formation and work together to untangle themselves without letting go. This game is ideal for small groups looking to build trust and collaboration while sharing a few laughs along the way.

How to play

Players stand in a circle, shoulder to shoulder. Each person reaches out with one hand and grabs the hand of someone across from them. Then, they repeat the process with their other hand, ensuring they are holding hands with two different people.

Without breaking the chain, the group must communicate and maneuver to untangle themselves back into a circle. If the group gets completely stuck, they can decide on one restart attempt.

Sample gameplay

A team of six players grabs hands and quickly realizes they are in a twisted mess. One person suggests stepping over another’s arm, while another ducks under a clasped hand. After a few minutes of twists, turns, and teamwork, they successfully untangle into a complete circle, celebrating their accomplishment.

Tips for winning The Human Knot

• Communicate clearly and listen to each other's suggestions.

• Move slowly and carefully to avoid making the knot tighter.

• Stay patient and don’t force movements that could break the chain.

• If stuck, try reversing a previous move to see if it helps untangle the group.

The Human Knot is a great way to promote collaboration, build connections, and add an interactive challenge to any small group gathering.

Creative and Engaging Games

Games that inspire creativity and encourage teamwork.

Some icebreakers go beyond simple questions and answers, encouraging players to think outside the box and collaborate in fun, unexpected ways. These games spark creativity, build teamwork, and keep the energy high, making them perfect for small groups looking to break the ice in an engaging way.

5. Picture Puzzle

Players needed: 1+ players

Picture Puzzle is a guessing game where players analyze an image and try to identify the correct words that describe it. The challenge is to guess the correct answer in as few attempts as possible. This game is perfect for sharpening observation skills, encouraging creative thinking, and adding a fun challenge to any gathering.

With Braid, you can play Picture Puzzle directly in Slack, making it a great option for both in-person and remote teams.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Open Braid’s game library or use the /braid PicturePuzzle command to begin. An image will appear, and players must type their guesses for the words that best describe it.

Each attempt counts, and the goal is to solve the puzzle in the fewest guesses possible. The player with the most accurate guesses in the shortest time wins the round.

Sample gameplay

Tips for winning Picture Puzzle

• Start with broad guesses based on the most obvious elements in the image.

• Pay attention to details like colors, objects, and backgrounds that might hint at the right words.

• Think of multiple ways to describe what you see, using both general and specific terms.

• Aim for fewer guesses by considering all aspects of the image before submitting an answer.

Picture Puzzle is a quick and engaging game that tests visual perception and vocabulary skills while adding a fun, competitive element to your group or solo play.

6. Story Chain

Players needed: 2+ players, best with 4+

Story Chain is a creative storytelling game where players build a story one sentence at a time. Each person adds to the narrative, creating unexpected twists and hilarious moments. This game encourages quick thinking, imagination, and collaboration, making it a great icebreaker for small groups.

How to play

Players sit in a circle or participate in a virtual chat. The first player begins the story with a sentence, such as "Once upon a time, a cat discovered a hidden treasure map." The next player continues the story by adding another sentence, like "Excited, the cat called his best friend, a talking parrot, to help on the adventure."

The game continues with each player adding a sentence, building on the previous one. The story can last for a set number of rounds or until the group decides to wrap it up.

Sample gameplay

• Player 1: "A scientist invented a machine that could turn anything into chocolate."

• Player 2: "One day, the machine malfunctioned and turned an entire lake into chocolate milk."

• Player 3: "People from all over the world came to swim in it, but then they discovered a giant marshmallow floating in the middle."

Tips for winning Story Chain

• Listen carefully to the previous sentence before adding your part.

• Keep your sentences short and engaging to maintain the story's flow.

• Add creative twists to make the story unpredictable and fun.

• Stay flexible and build on what others contribute rather than forcing your own ideas.

Story Chain is a fantastic way to boost creativity, get everyone involved, and turn simple ideas into wild, entertaining narratives.

7. Emoji Storytelling

Players needed: 2+ players

Emoji Storytelling is a fun and creative icebreaker that challenges players to tell a story using only emojis. This game encourages quick thinking, communication, and imagination while adding a modern twist to storytelling. It’s perfect for in-person gatherings, Slack channels, or virtual meetings where players can type or react with emojis.

How to play

Each player takes turns sharing a short story using only emojis. Other players must interpret the emojis and guess what the story is about. If playing in teams, one person sends an emoji sequence, and their teammates try to decode it.

Players can use common themes like movies, daily life, or personal experiences. The round ends when the story is correctly guessed or when players agree on the best interpretation.

Sample gameplay

A player sends: 🌍✈️🏝️🐠🤿🌞
The group guesses: “You went on vacation to an island, went snorkeling, and enjoyed the sun?”

Another player sends: 🎸🎤🔥👨‍🎤🤘
The group guesses: “A rock concert with an amazing guitarist?”

Tips for winning Emoji Storytelling

• Use a mix of emojis that represent actions, objects, and emotions.

• Think about well-known references, such as famous movies or common experiences.

• Keep it simple to avoid confusion while still making the story fun to decode.

• Encourage creativity by allowing players to interpret the story in different ways.

Emoji Storytelling is a lighthearted and engaging way to spark conversation and creativity while having fun with visual storytelling.

8. Word Link

Players needed: 2-10 players

Word Link is a fast-paced vocabulary game where players take turns linking words together based on the first and last letters. The goal is to keep the word chain going for as long as possible while scoring points based on word length. This game challenges players to think quickly, expand their vocabulary, and find creative connections between words.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Open Braid’s game library or use the /braid WordLink command to begin. Choose a channel, set the number of turns, and start the game.

The first player enters a word, and the next player must submit a word that begins with the last letter of the previous word. Each word earns points based on its length, but misspelled words or incorrect entries receive zero points. The game continues until everyone has completed their turns, and the player with the highest score wins.

Sample gameplay

CollisioN ➡️ NighT ➡️ TunneL ➡️ LaddeR ➡️ Rocket

The game continues as players keep the chain alive, aiming for longer words to maximize their score.

Tips for winning Word Link

• Think ahead and plan potential words based on uncommon endings like "z" or "x."

• Choose longer words to maximize points and stay ahead.

• Stay focused and keep track of the chain to avoid breaking the link.

• Expand your vocabulary by learning less common words to surprise your teammates.

• Leverage suffixes like "-ing", "-est", or "-tion" to create longer words and score more points.

Word Link adds energy and excitement to any Slack channel while promoting collaboration and creativity. Start playing today to see how long your team can keep the chain alive!

Fun and High-Energy Games

Perfect for boosting energy and creating a lively atmosphere.

These icebreakers bring energy, excitement, and friendly competition to small groups. Whether you're in the office, on a virtual call, or hanging out with friends, these games keep everyone engaged and moving.

9. Typing Test

Players needed: 1+ players

Typing Test is a high-speed challenge where players compete to type a given phrase as quickly and accurately as possible. This game is perfect for testing reaction time, accuracy, and typing speed while adding an exciting competitive edge. Whether playing solo or against teammates, Typing Test brings fast-paced fun to any Slack channel.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Open Braid’s game library or use the /braid TypingTest command to begin. The game will generate a random phrase that players must type exactly as shown.

After typing the sentence, results are displayed, showing each player’s speed and accuracy. The player with the highest combination of speed and precision wins the round.

Sample gameplay

• Player 1: 82 WPM, 98% accuracy

• Player 2: 90 WPM, 95% accuracy

• Player 3: 85 WPM, 100% accuracy

After the results are shown, the game determines the winner based on the best balance of speed and accuracy.

Tips for winning Typing Test

• Stay focused and read the phrase carefully before typing.

• Prioritize accuracy over speed to avoid typos that could cost you the win.

• Use muscle memory by practicing common words and phrases.

• Keep a relaxed posture to type efficiently without unnecessary mistakes.

Typing Test is a fun and competitive way to sharpen your typing skills while adding energy to any Slack workspace. Start playing today and see who has the fastest fingers!

10. Backward Clumps

Players needed: 4+ players

Backward Clumps is a fun and challenging team-building game that requires coordination, balance, and teamwork. Players start in pairs and progressively form larger groups while trying to stand up together without using their hands. The game encourages communication, problem-solving, and a lot of laughter as teams work through the challenge.

How to play

Players pair up and sit on the floor with their backs against each other and their legs stretched out in front. Without using their hands, they must work together to push against each other and stand up. Once successful, two pairs join together to form a group of four and attempt the same challenge.

The process continues as more players join the group, making it harder with each round. The goal is for the entire group to stand up as one by the final round.

Sample gameplay

• Round 1: Two players sit back-to-back and successfully push themselves up.

• Round 2: Two pairs merge into a group of four, struggling but managing to stand.

• Round 3: Eight players attempt to stand, requiring more coordination and teamwork.

• Final round: The whole group of ten tries to stand together, leading to laughs and creative problem-solving.

Tips for winning Backward Clumps

• Communicate clearly to synchronize movements with your partner.

• Lean back slowly and apply even pressure to maintain balance.

• Use your legs to push up rather than relying solely on your back.

• Stay patient and encourage teammates as the group gets larger.

Backward Clumps is a great way to promote teamwork, build trust, and add some physical activity to your group’s icebreaker session.

11. Charades Relay

Players needed: 4+ players (teams of 2 or more)

Charades Relay is a fast-paced twist on the classic game of charades, where teams race to act out and guess words in a relay-style format. Instead of one person acting for the whole team, the clue is passed down through a chain of players before the final person guesses. This game adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement, making it perfect for small groups looking to build teamwork and have fun.

How to play

Divide players into teams. Each team forms a line, with the first player receiving a secret word or phrase. The first player acts out the word without speaking, but instead of guessing immediately, the second player must watch and then act it out for the third person.

This continues down the line until the final player makes the guess. If they guess correctly, the team earns a point; if not, the correct answer is revealed, and the next round begins. The game continues until a set number of rounds are completed, and the team with the most correct guesses wins.

Sample gameplay

A team of four starts a round with the word “elephant.” The first player mimics a trunk and large ears while the second player observes. Without speaking, the second player then repeats what they saw for the third player, who tries to interpret the movements.

By the time the actions reach the fourth player, they take a guess: “Giraffe?” The team laughs, realizing the movements got distorted along the way!

Tips for winning Charades Relay

• Keep movements simple and exaggerated so they are easier to replicate.

• Watch carefully and focus on key gestures rather than trying to be too detailed.

• Act confidently, even if unsure, to keep the game flowing.

• Encourage laughter and fun—it’s more about the experience than getting every answer right.

Charades Relay adds a fun challenge to traditional charades, making it an exciting icebreaker that guarantees laughter and great team bonding moments.

Games for Deeper Connections

Encouraging meaningful conversations and fostering closer bonds.

Icebreaker games aren’t just about fun—they can also help people open up, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. These games encourage personal storytelling, thoughtful discussions, and moments of genuine bonding. Whether in a workplace setting, a virtual meeting, or a casual gathering, these activities create space for deeper conversations in an engaging way.

12. This or That

Players needed: 2+ players

This or That is a lighthearted game that presents players with two choices, encouraging quick decisions and fun debates. Whether it's "Pizza or Sushi?", "Beach or Mountains?", or "Cats or Dogs?", this game sparks engaging conversations and helps teammates learn more about each other.

With Braid, This or That is even easier to play, making it a great icebreaker for both remote and in-person teams.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Open Braid’s game library or use the /braid ThisorThat command to begin. Players will receive a series of five paired choices and must pick one option per row.

Once all players have made their selections, the game sends the final results to the chosen channel, allowing everyone to see how their preferences compare. The game can be played casually or used as a way to spark deeper discussions.

Sample gameplay

A player sees the following choices:

Players make their picks, and once all players have finished, the results are posted in Slack, showing who chose what.

Tips for playing This or That

• Keep it fun by using questions that match your team’s interests or preferences.

• Get creative with unexpected or humorous options to keep everyone entertained.

• Encourage quick responses to maintain a lively pace.

• Start discussions by using the results to share personal stories and opinions.

This or That is the perfect way to relax, have fun, and learn more about your teammates. Start playing today to bring your team closer together!

13. Desert Island

Players needed: 2+ players

Desert Island is a thought-provoking icebreaker where players imagine being stranded on a deserted island and must choose a limited number of items to bring. The game encourages creativity, strategic thinking, and fun discussions as players justify their choices. Whether played casually or as a team-building activity, it’s a great way to learn more about how teammates think and what they value.

How to play

A moderator presents the scenario: "You are stranded on a deserted island and can only bring three items with you. What do you choose and why?" Each player takes turns listing their three items and explaining their reasoning.

The game can be played as an open discussion or with a competitive element where players debate whose choices would be the most useful for survival. Variations can include limiting item categories (e.g., one tool, one luxury item, one survival essential) or assigning teammates to work together to create the best survival kit.

Sample gameplay

A player chooses:

1. A fishing net – "I need a way to get food easily."

2. A solar-powered flashlight – "Nights on the island could be dangerous, and light would help."

3. A water purifier – "Finding clean drinking water is a priority for survival."

Another player picks:

1. A Swiss Army knife – "It’s versatile and can be used for cutting, hunting, and protection."

2. A hammock – "I want a comfortable place to sleep off the ground."

3. A book on survival skills – "Knowing how to build a fire and shelter could save my life."

Tips for playing Desert Island

• Choose items that spark interesting discussions rather than just obvious survival tools.

• Encourage players to think outside the box by including fun or unusual items.

• Mix practicality with personality—some players may prioritize survival, while others may bring comfort or entertainment.

• Use follow-up questions like "Would your choices change if you had to survive for a year?" to deepen the conversation.

Desert Island is a fun and insightful game that reveals how people think, plan, and prioritize, making it an excellent activity for bonding and team-building.

14. Little-Known Fact

Players needed: 2+ players

Little-Known Fact is a simple yet revealing icebreaker where players share an interesting or unexpected fact about themselves. This game encourages storytelling, builds connections, and allows teammates to learn surprising details about one another. Whether played in a casual setting or as part of a team-building exercise, it’s a great way to spark conversations and strengthen relationships.

How to play

Each player takes turns sharing one little-known fact about themselves. The fact should be something unique that most people in the group wouldn’t already know. After each fact is shared, other players can ask follow-up questions or react to the revelation.

The game can be played in a structured round or as an ongoing activity where players randomly share facts throughout a meeting or event. For a competitive twist, players can write down their facts anonymously, and the group can try to guess who each fact belongs to.

Sample gameplay

A player shares: "I once auditioned for a reality TV show but didn’t make it past the first round."
Another player says: "I can solve a Rubik’s cube in under a minute."
The group reacts with curiosity and asks follow-up questions, leading to fun discussions.

Tips for playing Little-Known Fact

• Choose a fact that is surprising or interesting rather than something generic.

• Keep it lighthearted and fun—facts that lead to stories work best.

• Ask follow-up questions to keep the conversation going.

• Use the game as an opportunity to find shared experiences or hidden talents among teammates.

Little-Known Fact is an easy and engaging way to uncover hidden stories, build rapport, and add a personal touch to any group interaction.

15. What’s on Your Playlist?

Players needed: 2+ players

What’s on Your Playlist? is a music-based icebreaker that encourages players to share their favorite songs, artists, or go-to playlists. This game sparks fun conversations, reveals musical tastes, and helps teammates find common interests. Whether played in person or virtually, it’s a simple yet engaging way to connect over music.

How to play

Each player shares a song from their current playlist, a favorite throwback track, or a song that represents their mood. The group can discuss their choices, ask why they picked that song, or even build a shared playlist based on everyone's selections. For a fun twist, players can describe their song without naming it, and others can try to guess the title or artist.

Sample gameplay

A player shares: "I’ve been listening to ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on repeat lately. It’s a classic and always puts me in a great mood!"
Another player says: "I love ‘Blinding Lights’ by The Weeknd—it’s my go-to song for long drives."
The group reacts, some agreeing while others share their own favorite driving songs, leading to a lively discussion.

Tips for playing What’s on Your Playlist?

• Share songs that have a personal connection or interesting story behind them.

• Ask follow-up questions like "What’s your favorite concert experience?" to keep the conversation going.

• Use the game to create a collaborative team playlist.

• Be open to different genres and recommendations—it’s a great way to discover new music.

What’s on Your Playlist? is a fun and effortless way to bond over music, spark great discussions, and uncover hidden music gems within your group.

Virtual Icebreakers for Remote Teams

Designed specifically for remote and hybrid teams.

Remote work makes team bonding trickier, but a good icebreaker can turn a routine meeting into a fun, engaging experience. Whether your team is connecting over Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams, these virtual-friendly games help break silences, spark conversations, and build stronger relationships.

16. Trivia

Players needed: 2+ players

Trivia is a fun and engaging game that tests players’ knowledge across different categories while encouraging friendly competition. You can play it in person or virtually, and it’s a great way to challenge teammates, spark discussions, and learn something new. With Braid, Trivia can be played effortlessly in Slack, making it an easy and entertaining choice for small groups.

How to play

Start by adding Braid to your Slack workspace and granting the necessary access. Open Braid’s game library or use the /braid Trivia command to begin. Players can choose from various trivia categories, such as general knowledge, pop culture, history, or science.

Each round presents a multiple-choice or open-ended question, and players race to submit their answers before time runs out. The game keeps track of scores, and the player with the most correct answers at the end wins.

Sample gameplay

A question appears:

Player 1 answers: Dragonfly (Incorrect)
Player 2 answers: Butterfly (Correct)
The correct answer is revealed, and points are awarded to Player 2. The game moves on to the next question.

Tips for winning Trivia

• Choose a category you’re confident in to maximize your chances of winning.

• Answer quickly, as some trivia games reward speed.

• Use the process of elimination for multiple-choice questions when unsure.

• Stay engaged and learn from other players’ answers to improve in future rounds.

Trivia is the perfect mix of competition and learning, making it an exciting icebreaker that keeps small groups entertained and engaged.

17. Guess the GIF

Players needed: 2+ players

Guess the GIF is a fun and expressive icebreaker where players send a GIF that represents a certain topic, mood, or response, and others try to guess its meaning. This game is great for sparking laughter, encouraging creativity, and adding some personality to team interactions. It works especially well in virtual meetings or Slack channels, keeping the conversation engaging and lighthearted.

How to play

Each player selects a GIF that represents how they feel, their reaction to a question, or a hidden theme. Other players take turns guessing the meaning behind the GIF. To keep it structured, a moderator can assign themes like “Describe your weekend in a GIF” or “Summarize today’s meeting with a GIF.”

The player who guesses correctly first can be the next to post a GIF.

Sample gameplay

A player posts a GIF of a cat knocking over a glass. Another player guesses, "You’re feeling clumsy today?" The original player responds, "Nope! That’s me after finishing my last meeting for the day!" The group laughs and continues playing.

Tips for playing Guess the GIF

• Choose GIFs that are expressive and open to multiple interpretations.

• Keep it fun by using pop culture references, relatable memes, or classic reactions.

• Ask follow-up questions to keep the conversation flowing.

• Use different themes for each round to keep the game fresh and engaging.

Guess the GIF is an easy and entertaining way to break the ice, encourage interaction, and add humor to any team conversation.

18. Virtual Pictionary

Players needed: 2+ players

Virtual Pictionary is a digital twist on the classic drawing and guessing game, perfect for remote teams looking for a fun and interactive icebreaker. Players take turns drawing a word or phrase while others try to guess what it is within a time limit. This game sparks creativity, quick thinking, and plenty of laughs, making it a great way to bring a group together.

How to play

Use an online whiteboard tool like Skribbl.io, Gartic Phone, Zoom Whiteboard, or a Slack-integrated drawing app if available. One player receives a word or phrase and has 60 seconds to draw it without using letters or numbers. The rest of the group types their guesses in the chat.

The first person to guess correctly earns a point, and the next player takes a turn. The game continues for a set number of rounds, and the player with the most points at the end wins.

Sample gameplay

A player is given the word “giraffe” and starts drawing a long-necked animal on the virtual whiteboard. Another player types “horse,” followed by “llama” until someone correctly guesses “giraffe.” The round ends, and the next player gets their turn.

Tips for playing Virtual Pictionary

• Keep drawings simple and focus on key details to make guessing easier.

• Use bold strokes and avoid excessive details to save time.

• Think outside the box—if you can't draw the word exactly, use symbols or related images.

• Set a guessing limit or timer to keep the game moving and maintain excitement.

Virtual Pictionary is a great way to boost team engagement, encourage creativity, and add some friendly competition to any virtual gathering.

19. Meeting Background Charades

Players needed: 2+ players

Meeting Background Charades is a fun virtual icebreaker where players use their video call backgrounds as clues for others to guess. Instead of acting out words like in traditional charades, players change their virtual background to represent a place, object, or concept. This game adds a creative twist to virtual meetings, making team interactions more engaging and entertaining.

How to play

Each player selects a virtual background that represents a word, theme, or concept without using text or obvious hints. When it’s their turn, they reveal their background, and the rest of the team takes turns guessing what it represents. The first person to guess correctly earns a point, and the next player changes their background for a new round.

The game continues until everyone has had a turn or for a set number of rounds.

Sample gameplay

A player sets their Zoom background to an image of the Eiffel Tower. Teammates start guessing:
“Paris?”
“France?”
“A vacation in Europe?”
Finally, someone correctly guesses “Eiffel Tower,” and that player wins the round!

Tips for playing Meeting Background Charades

• Choose creative and slightly challenging backgrounds to keep the game fun.

• Avoid using backgrounds with text or obvious clues that make it too easy.

• Play with different themes like “dream destinations,” “famous movies,” or “childhood favorites.”

• Encourage follow-up conversations about why players chose their backgrounds.

Meeting Background Charades is a fantastic way to liven up virtual meetings, encourage creativity, and add a playful element to team bonding.

Break the Ice and Build Stronger Teams With Braid!

Icebreaker games are more than just a way to fill time—they’re an opportunity to strengthen connections, improve team communication, and create a more engaging group dynamic.

Whether you're looking for quick icebreakers, team-building challenges, or virtual-friendly games, these activities ensure that every interaction is fun, interactive, and meaningful.

Braid’s team-building games and activities are built right into Slack (and soon available on Microsoft Teams), which makes it easier to boost engagement, team culture, and productivity—all within your team’s existing workspaces.

From breaking the ice before a meeting to strengthening relationships across remote teams, Braid’s interactive games help make every moment count.

Ready to bring more fun and connection to your team? Schedule a demo today!

FAQs About Icebreaker Games for Small Groups

What is the best icebreaker for a small work group?

The best small group icebreaker depends on the team’s dynamic and goals. If you want a fun way to encourage team communication, This or That (Braid) is just what you need to spark discussions. For collaboration and problem-solving, Wordsmith (Braid) is an engaging choice that brings out creativity.

If your focus is on helping new team members get comfortable, Two Truths and a Lie or Little-Known Fact is ideal for sharing personal stories and breaking the ice.

What are the 4 C's in icebreaker?

The 4 C's of ice-breaker activities help teams connect and create a positive environment:

• Communication – Encourages team members to engage in open discussions.

• Collaboration – Helps participants work together toward a shared goal.

• Creativity – Makes the experience fun and interactive through problem-solving.

• Comfort – Reduces awkwardness and allows team members to feel at ease.

These principles make icebreakers effective for small group icebreakers and can improve interactions in just a few moments.

What is a quick icebreaker game?

A quick icebreaker game should be easy to start and take just a few moments to play. Would You Rather, This or That (Braid), and Little-Known Fact require no setup and instantly get the conversation flowing. If you want a fun icebreaker activity for remote teams, Guess the GIF is a great Slack or Zoom game that encourages creativity and team communication.

What is a 5-minute icebreaker activity?

A 5-minute icebreaker should be engaging and interactive while being easy to explain. Meeting Background Charades is perfect for virtual teams—it allows players to showcase their personalities while keeping the game short. In-person, The Human Knot is a fun way to get people moving and working together.

If you’re welcoming new team members, Desert Island is a great conversation starter that encourages group members to think creatively and share their ideas.

How do you invite team members to an icebreaker game?

To invite team members to an icebreaker, choose a fun way to match the group’s energy. Whether virtual or in person, keep the introduction engaging so each next person joins naturally. 

Need ice-breaker ideas? Try This or That (Braid) for quick laughs or Wordsmith (Braid) for teamwork. A well-chosen small group icebreaker ensures team members feel included in just a few moments.