15 Fun Ice Breaker Games That Actually Work
Tired of boring ice breakers? Discover 15 genuinely fun and effective ice breaker games that engage participants, create laughter, and build real connections.
11 min read
•December 20This or That
4.7
(3,421 ratings)A rapid-fire game where participants quickly choose between two options, revealing preferences and sparking discussion.
This or That is a fast-paced, simple icebreaker perfect for energizing meetings and helping people learn about each other's preferences. The facilitator presents two options (coffee or tea, beach or mountains, dogs or cats), and participants quickly indicate their choice. Unlike "Would You Rather" which poses difficult dilemmas, This or That focuses on simple preferences, making it quick and inclusive. It works wonderfully as a meeting warm-up or during breaks.
5-15 min3-100 peopleindoor
QuickNo MaterialsFunLarge GroupsAdults
Getting to Know YouEnergizers
Objective
Quickly learn about participant preferences and energize the group with rapid-fire choices.
Materials Needed
- Optional: prepared list of This or That questions
- Optional: polling tool for virtual
How to Play
1
Explain the Format
1 minPresent two simple options. Participants choose one by raising hands, moving to sides of room, or using virtual reactions.
2
Start with Easy Choices
1 minBegin with very simple, non-controversial choices: "Coffee or tea?", "Cats or dogs?", "Summer or winter?"
3
Present 10-15 Questions
10 minRapid-fire through questions, pausing briefly to see the split. Ask 1-2 people to briefly explain their choice.
4
Include Unique Questions
2 minMix in creative or workplace-specific questions relevant to your group.
5
Discuss Patterns
1 minBriefly note any interesting patterns or surprising splits in the group.
Pro Tips
preparationImportant
Prepare 20-30 questions in advance to maintain energy and pace.
facilitationImportant
Keep moving quickly - this is about volume and energy, not deep discussion.
Variations
Try these variations to adapt the game for different contexts and group sizes.
Physical This or That
Participants physically move to different sides of the room for each choice.
Changes:
Additional Materials
- Room with space to move
This, That, or Both
Add a third option - "both" or "neither" for nuance.
Changes:
Difficultymedium
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