The minefield game is a popular team-building activity used in workshops. The purpose is to build trust, communication, strategy, and teamwork. Participants must guide a “blindfolded” teammate through a minefield (represented by objects on the floor) by giving them verbal directions.
Instructions
- Set up: Use tape, ropes, or furniture to create a “minefield” path on the floor with obstacles. Scatter soft objects like balls or stuffed animals as “mines”.
- Equipment needed: Blindfolds, path materials, soft objects as mines, stopwatch.
- Time required: 30-60 minutes
- Participants: 5-15 people, break into teams of 2-3. Best for colleagues who work together directly.
- Roles: One person is blindfolded and must walk through the minefield path relying only on verbal directions. The other teammates guide them by shouting directions from the start point.
- Rules: The blindfolded teammate cannot touch any mines. If so, they must return to the start. The fastest team time wins.
Facilitator Role
- Set up the minefield and explain rules.
- Time each team and ensure safety.
- Lead debrief discussion after.
Participant Role
- Guide blindfolded teammate with clear directions.
- Listen to and trust teammates’ guidance.
- Avoid mines and complete the path.
Debrief Questions
- How did it feel to trust your teammates?
- What communication strategies worked or didn’t work?
- How would you improve teamwork next time?
- How was this similar to workplace scenarios?
Conclusion
The minefield game builds trust, communication, strategy, and teamwork in a fun, hands-on activity. With proper set up and facilitation, it engages colleagues and provides insights to improve collaboration. The debrief discussion allows teams to reflect on takeaways.