Desert Island

How to Play

Setup

1. Group size: Works with 4–20 people. For larger groups, split into subgroups of 6–10 with a facilitator in each.
2. Time: Plan 15–30 minutes depending on group size and whether you include the team-planning variation.
3. Prompt: Share the scenario: “You’re stranded on a desert island. You may bring exactly three items.” Optionally clarify categories (e.g., survival, practical, sentimental, luxury) and constraints (e.g., must be real-world items, something you could reasonably carry).
4. Space & tools: Circle seating in-person, or breakout rooms online. A visible timer and a whiteboard/chat for noting items is helpful but optional.

How to Play

1. Set the scene: Briefly describe the island (warm climate, fresh water nearby, unknown rescue timeline) to spark imagination.
2. Quiet prep (1 minute): Each person privately chooses three items and a short reason for each. Encourage specificity (e.g., “Swiss Army knife” vs. “tool”).
3. Share round (60–90 seconds per person): In a round-robin, each participant names their three items and explains why. Facilitator captures keywords on a whiteboard or in chat.
4. Clarifying questions (15–30 seconds): After each share, allow one or two light questions for curiosity, not critique.
5. Optional team plan (5–8 minutes): As a group, combine the items to create a survival plan. Choose the top five items the group would keep if space were limited, aiming for consensus.
6. Debrief (3–5 minutes): Ask 1–2 reflection prompts, such as:
   • What did your choices reveal about your values or hobbies?
   • How did the group decide what to prioritize?
   • What patterns did you notice (e.g., safety vs. comfort)?

Rules

1. Three items only: No extra bundles unless stated (e.g., a “first-aid kit” counts as one item; a “camping set” is too broad unless defined).
2. Realistic items: No magical or instant-rescue options (e.g., teleporters). Technology is allowed but must behave realistically (battery limits, range, weight).
3. Specificity: Be clear about features (e.g., “solar-powered satellite communicator” vs. “phone”). Facilitator may ask for reasonable detail.
4. Respectful listening: No interrupting or value-judging others’ choices. Curiosity over critique.
5. Timeboxing: Stick to time limits to ensure everyone shares.
6. Safety & inclusivity: Avoid items or scenarios that could make others uncomfortable. Keep it workplace-appropriate.

Tips

• Seed with examples (e.g., water filter, tarp, novel, guitar) to show both practical and personal angles.
• Encourage a mix: “At least one survival item, one comfort or morale booster, and one personal or hobby item.”
• Use a visual board or chat list to spot themes and reduce repetition.
• Rotate the speaking order to balance voices; invite quieter members first during the team-plan phase.
• In virtual settings, have participants post their lists in chat, then verbally highlight one item.

Variations

• Themed islands: Arctic tundra, dense jungle, or limited fresh water—adjust choices accordingly.
• Constraint cards: Add a budget, weight limit, or profession-based restriction (e.g., “You’re a medic/engineer/artist”).
• Trading round: Allow each person one trade after hearing others’ items.
• Speed pitch: 30-second rapid-fire explanations to boost energy.
• Awards: Vote on Most Creative, Most Resourceful, Best Story, or Best Team Plan.