Mine field (group dynamic)
| Type: | brain game, Group dynamics game |
| Number of players: | ideally 5 to 10 players |
| Location: | small playing field |
| Equipment: | writing things, field markings |
| Duration: | about 20 to 30 minutes |
| Preparation: | arranging the playing field |
Mine field (group dynamic) is an explicit group dynamic variation of the game Mine field. A fast, correct solution to the problem is less important than the way how to get to a solution and the team work of the group.
Equipment
- writing things for the game coordinator
- field markings (floor tiles, chalk or colored sticky tape)
Preparation
A playing field in the size of 7 x 7 meters has to be marked (draughtboard pattern). Then, the game coordinator thinks of a way from one side of the playing field to another and notes it down.
Procedure
Similarly to the game Mine field, all participants have to find out the way together through trial and error. In order to do so, one player is allowed to step onto the mine field and try to walk the correct way (which is still unknown). As soon as this player steps onto a mine (or if s/he chooses an unauthorized cut of the route), the game coordinator informs about that and the next team member gives it a try.
In contrast to the original, the other team members are not allowed to watch. They are in a separate room, or at least far enough away. The game is more difficult, and hence, involves that the group has to find strategies to successfully solve the problem.
Variations and annotations
- It becomes even more difficult if after a trial on the mine field the player is not allowed to communicate with his immediate successor. As a result, the passing on of new information is deferred at least to the next round.
- The group is denied any aids and they are especially not allowed to take down notes and draw the playing field.
