The “Rock-Paper-Scissors” team activity is a simple yet engaging game used for centuries to settle disputes, make decisions, and even as a fun pastime.
In recent years, it has found its way into the corporate world as a free team-building activity or a free training icebreaker.
The game’s simplicity and ability to foster communication, quick decision-making, and strategic thinking make it an excellent tool for enhancing team dynamics.
Definitions
- Rock-Paper-Scissors: A hand game usually played between two people, where each player simultaneously forms one of three shapes with an outstretched hand. The “rock” beats scissors, the “scissors” beat paper and the “paper” beats rock.
- Team Activity: An organized effort where team members participate together to achieve a common goal.
Why a “Rock-Paper-Scissors” Team Activity in the Workplace Matters
In the workplace, a “Rock-Paper-Scissors” team activity can serve as a fun and effective way to break the ice, encourage team bonding, and promote healthy competition.
It can also help to improve decision-making skills, as players must quickly analyze their opponent’s potential moves and adjust their strategy accordingly.
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The Game: Who It’s Best For, What You Need, and How to Play
The “Rock-Paper-Scissors” team activity and role plays are suitable for all types of teams, regardless of their size or the nature of their work.
All you need to play is at least two participants and a basic understanding of the game’s rules.
To play, two team members face each other and count to three in unison.
On the count of three, each player simultaneously displays one of three hand signs representing rock, paper, or scissors.
The game’s rules determine the winner: rock crushes scissors, scissors cut paper, and paper covers rock.
Eight Rules Associated with a “Rock-Paper-Scissors” Activity Game
- Simultaneous Play: Both players must throw their chosen sign (rock, paper, or scissors) at the same time.
- Valid Moves: Only the hand signs for rock, paper, and scissors are allowed.
- Determining the Winner: The player who chooses the stronger element (rock crushes scissors, scissors cut paper, paper covers rock) wins the round.
- Ties: If both players throw the same sign, it’s a tie, and they must play again.
- Best of Three: Typically, games are played in a best-of-three format to determine the overall winner.
- Honesty: Players must play honestly and not change their sign after they have thrown it.
- Respect: Players must respect each other and the game’s outcome.
- Fun: The primary goal of the game is to have fun and promote team bonding.
Individual Tips on How to Play “Rock-Paper-Scissors” Team Activity
To excel in the “Rock-Paper-Scissors” team activity, players should focus on observing their opponents’ patterns and tendencies.
For example, some players may unconsciously favor one sign over the others.
By identifying these patterns, a player can predict their opponent’s next move and choose the winning sign accordingly.
Be sure to also check out David Rock’s SCARF Model.
Five Variations of the Game
- Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock: This variation, popularized by the TV show “The Big Bang Theory,” adds two more elements to the game, making it more complex and unpredictable.
- Team Tournament: In this variation, the entire team is divided into pairs, and a tournament is held to find the ultimate “Rock-Paper-Scissors” champion.
- Blindfolded Rock-Paper-Scissors: Players are blindfolded, adding an element of surprise and unpredictability to the game.
- Sequential Rock-Paper-Scissors: Players must win with each sign (rock, paper, and scissors) in sequence to win the game.
- Rock-Paper-Scissors Relay: Teams line up and play in a relay format, with the winner staying on and the loser giving way to the next team member.
- Grey Rock Method: The grey-rock method is a great variation to explore within training workshops.
Conclusion
The “Rock-Paper-Scissors” team activity and icebreakers for team meetings and training workshops are versatile, engaging, and fun way to promote team bonding and improve decision-making skills in the workplace. We hear this from customers that regularly download our training course materials.
By understanding the game’s rules and strategies, and by exploring its various adaptations, teams can make the most of this timeless game.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
