Never Have I Ever

How to Play

Setup

1. Appoint a facilitator to open, time-keep, and maintain a welcoming tone.
2. Arrange seating so everyone can see one another (circle or U-shape). For virtual play, encourage gallery view.
3. Set boundaries together: keep prompts PG-13; avoid sensitive areas (politics, religion, finances, health, intimate relationships, alcohol). No calling out specific people.
4. Choose a response signal: raise a hand, stand up, step forward, or in virtual settings use reaction emojis or type “✔” in chat.
5. Decide sharing format: when someone responds, they may add a 5–20 second story. Limit to 2–3 shares per prompt to keep pace.
6. Timebox the session (10–30 minutes) or choose a number of rounds (e.g., everyone goes once).
7. Accessibility: provide non-physical options (hand raise instead of standing). Cameras optional; chat responses welcome.

How to Play

1. The facilitator models the first round: say, “Never have I ever…” followed by a true statement (e.g., “Never have I ever tried rock climbing.”)
2. Anyone who HAS done that thing uses the agreed signal. The facilitator invites 1–3 quick shares.
3. Rotate turns clockwise or popcorn style. Each speaker offers one statement that is true for them.
4. Keep statements simple and inclusive. Encourage variety across topics (travel, hobbies, learning, pop culture, quirky skills).
5. Continue until the time or round limit is reached. End with a short debrief (e.g., “What surprised you?”).

Rules

1. Truthful and first-person: only say things you genuinely haven’t done.
2. Respect boundaries: no sensitive topics; no targeting individuals or pressuring anyone to share.
3. Pass is always allowed—no questions asked.
4. Be concise: statements under 10 seconds; shares under 20 seconds to maintain momentum.
5. Celebrate differences: respond with curiosity and appreciation, not judgment.
6. Confidentiality: stories stay in the group unless explicit permission is given to share.
7. Accessibility: offer visual, verbal, or chat-based participation options.

Tips

• Start with light prompts to warm up: food firsts, travel quirks, childhood memories, unexpected hobbies.
• Model inclusive language and a respectful tone; the facilitator’s first prompt sets the bar.
• Keep the energy brisk—use a visible timer and gently cap long stories.
• Seed a few prompt ideas on a slide or whiteboard for inspiration.
• Rotate quickly so newer or quieter voices get a turn early.
• Wrap up with a positive reflection: highlight surprising commonalities or unique talents discovered.

Variations

• Five-Fingers Edition: Everyone holds up five fingers; put one finger down if you HAVE done it. Non-elimination: when someone reaches zero, they share their favorite discovery instead of leaving the game.
• Theme Rounds: Focus each round (e.g., “Travel & Places,” “Learning & Growth,” “First Times at Work,” “Arts & Sports”).
• Lightning Mode: 30–60 seconds per person to rapid-fire 2–3 statements; no stories—just signals—to boost energy.
• Bingo Board: Give players a 5×5 card of experiences; mark a square when a statement applies. First to a line shares one brief highlight.
• Remote Async: Post one prompt daily in a chat channel; teammates react and add short stories in thread at their own pace.