Something in Common: A Game of Unexpected Connections
Something in Common is a fun and engaging game that helps players discover unexpected connections and shared experiences within a group. Players take turns stating things they have in common, and others who share that experience reveal themselves.
Description: Something in Common is a fantastic party game or classroom activity that injects a dose of laughter, social interaction, and the joy of discovering shared experiences. The core mechanic revolves around players finding common ground with each other. Each round starts with a player declaring something they have in common with others, using phrases like “If you have ever…” or “Who else has…?” The other players then listen and consider if they share the mentioned experience. If they do, they stand up, raise their hand, or make a sound to reveal themselves. As the game progresses, players take turns revealing their commonalities, leading to laughter, surprised discoveries about shared experiences, and a stronger sense of connection within the group. With its simple rules and endless possibilities for shared experiences, Something in Common is a guaranteed recipe for amusement, a chance to discover unexpected connections, and a fun way to break the ice at social gatherings.
Categories: Party Game, Icebreaker Game
How to Play:
- Number of Players:
Something in Common is ideally suited for groups of three or more. With a larger group, there’s a broader range of experiences to share, making the game more interesting and revealing.
- What You’ll Need:
- Your Voice and Memories!: This is all you need to play this classic game! Optionally, you can use a list of prompts or conversation starters to get the game flowing, especially with a group that might be hesitant to share at first.
- Gameplay:
- Gather Your Circle: Find a comfortable spot to sit or stand with your friends, classmates, or fellow players.
- The Commonality Awaits: One player volunteers to go first. They announce something they have in common with others, phrased as “If you have ever…” or “Who else has…?” and adding a specific experience or quality.
- Stand Up and Be Counted: The other players listen to the statement. If they share the mentioned experience, they stand up, raise their hand, or make a pre-determined sound to reveal themselves.
- The Circle Continues: The game continues in turns, with each player taking the opportunity to declare something they have in common with the group.
- Discussions and Stories (Optional): As the game progresses, players might choose to share a brief story or detail about their common experience, adding another layer of connection and enjoyment.
- New Round, New Discoveries: The game continues with another round, keeping the cycle of shared experiences, discoveries, and laughter alive.
Playing Time: A game of Something in Common can last anywhere from a quick round to a longer session depending on the size of the group, the willingness to share experiences, and the enthusiasm for finding connections.
Make it Your Own:
- Categories (Optional): Choose categories for each round to focus on specific areas of common ground, like hobbies, travel, or childhood experiences.
- Prompts and Starters: Use pre-written prompts or conversation starters to help players overcome shyness and get the game flowing with interesting commonalities.
- Movement and Energy: For a more energetic variation, have players move to different areas of the room based on whether they share the common experience or not.
Ready to Discover Shared Experiences?
Something in Common is a simple yet engaging game that injects a dose of fun and social connection into any gathering. So loosen up, be ready to share, and get ready for a night of laughter, unexpected discoveries about the people around you, and the joy of finding common ground.
Similar Games:
- Two Truths and a Lie: A classic game where players share three statements about themselves, with two being true and one being a lie. The other players then try to guess the lie.
- Would You Rather?: A conversation starter game where players are presented with hypothetical dilemmas and must choose between two difficult options.
- I Spy: A classic observation game where one player chooses an object in their surroundings and the others try to guess it by asking yes or no questions that include the phrase “I spy.” This game can be adapted to find things in common by having players describe qualities or experiences they are “spying” on within the group.