When it comes to organizing an effective and friendly team building, choosing the right board game can make all the difference. A well-chosen game can not only entertain, but also strengthen bonds and improve team cohesion.
I'll help you choose the perfect board game based on the size of your team. Whether you have a small team of three or a large one of more than ten, we have suggestions for every team size.
Why is team size important?
The number of players greatly influences the dynamics of a game. Games for small groups often favor strategy and intimate interactions, while those for large teams emphasize collaboration and group management.
A poor match between team size and your chosen game can lead to frustrating and counterproductive experiences. For example, a game designed for four players could become chaotic and disorganized if played by ten people. Conversely, a game for large groups could feel boring with only three players. That's why we recommend some games based on your team size below.
1. Games for small teams (3-4 players)
With a reduced size, each player has more opportunities to influence the game, promoting more elaborate strategies, more intense discussions and effective communication.
Benefits :
- Increased interactivity : Smaller groups allow for more intimate and strategic interactions.
- Reduced game time : Fewer players means faster turns and a more dynamic game.
Examples of games:
- The Mind : A cooperative game where players must synchronize their cards without communicating.
- So Clover : A word association game where players work together to guess words.
2. Games for medium teams (5-8 players)
With more players, it is crucial to manage the playing time so that everyone remains involved. These games balance the speaking and action time between the participants. Favor games where the wait for your turn to play is short or even non-existent.
Benefits :
- Group Engagement : These games are great for keeping everyone in the group interested and engaged.
- Variety of strategies : They offer a multitude of strategies, suitable for different playing styles.
Examples of games:
- Dixit : A creative card game where players must match pictures to clues.
- Codenames : A word game where players guess words associated with clues given by their teammates.
3. Games for large teams (9 players and more)
For very large groups, consider dividing players into subgroups to ensure optimal interaction and avoid confusion. Tables of 4 to 6 players are ideal.
Maintaining engagement can be a challenge. Make sure to choose games with clear rules and a strong interactive component to keep everyone interested.
Benefits :
- Massive Interaction : These games are designed to encourage high interaction between participants, making them ideal for large groups.
- Festive atmosphere : They create a dynamic and festive atmosphere, perfect for team building.
Examples of games:
- Pigeon Pigeon : A bluffing game where teams must discern the truth among invented lies.
- There you are abusing!: A party game where participants must answer funny questions without abusing.
Tips for choosing the right game
Know your group: Understanding your group’s preferences and dynamics is crucial. A game that appeals to everyone will ensure better participation.
Types of games:
- Strategy : Ideal for groups who like to plan and think.
- Cooperation : Perfect for building team spirit.
- Party games : Excellent for creating a light and fun atmosphere.
Age of players: Adjust your game selection based on the age of the participants. Some games may be too complex or inappropriate for certain age groups.
Avoid awkward games: Choose games that don't make participants feel uncomfortable. The goal is to build cohesion, not create tension or embarrassment.
Speed Games: Be careful with speed games. They can sometimes only appeal to one person, the winner, and leave the others frustrated.
Flexibility: Opt for games with flexible rules that allow you to vary the number of players.
In conclusion,
Together we explored how to choose the ideal board game based on the size of your team for a successful team building. From small groups of three to four players to large teams of more than ten, each configuration has its own needs and suitable games.
