If you own a deck of playing cards, you have access to dozens of interactive and engaging icebreaker games that can help your group connect, share, and build trust.
In this post, I’ll share three of my all-time favourite icebreaker activities, all of which require nothing more than a simple deck of playing cards.
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A deck of playing cards is one of the most versatile and valuable tools you can use for team-building and interactive group activities.
It’s compact, inexpensive, and allows for a wide range of games that encourage interaction and relationship-building.
If you’re looking for more ways to utilize playing cards, check out my previous post where I list them as one of my top five pieces of equipment for icebreakers, energisers, and team-building activities.
Each participant receives a random playing card as they enter the room. Once everyone has a card, the game begins!
Here are a few fun ways to group participants based on their cards:
Once groups are formed, introduce conversation prompts such as: What’s your favourite holiday destination? This encourages quick, meaningful interactions and helps participants get to know each other better.
Spread a random selection of playing cards on a table or the floor. Participants then select a card based on how they’re feeling:
Once they’ve chosen, pair them up based on common factors like clothing colour or birth month. The card’s value determines how much they share:
This game provides a natural and structured way for participants to open up at their own comfort level, while still engaging in meaningful conversation.
Originally designed for dice, this game adapts perfectly to a deck of playing cards.
Think of 10 interesting icebreaker questions and display them on a whiteboard or sheet of paper. Each participant picks a card and answers the corresponding question based on its value.
This game ensures that everyone has a chance to share at their comfort level, while still promoting interaction and fun.
If you loved these icebreaker games, here are some recent articles I think you’ll also enjoy:
Non-Traditional Icebreaker Games Icebreaker Games for Small Groups Brilliant Icebreakers for Large Groups
You can also grab a copy of my free 28-page ebook Top 10 Icebreakers & Group Games for free by completing the form below.
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A simple deck of playing cards can transform your group interactions, making them more engaging, dynamic, and fun.
Whether hosting a team-building event, a classroom activity or just looking for ways to connect with new people, these icebreaker games will help build relationships and foster meaningful connections.
Do you have any other favourite card-based icebreaker games?
Drop them in the comments below – I’d love to hear your ideas!
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Original post March 2025, last updated April 2025.