Refresher game: 007 Bang

In all-day seminars and workshops, attention typically wanes in the afternoon. Here's a simple game to boost energy levels.

Divide participants into groups of 7 to 10. A random participant begins the game by saying "0" and points to another participant of his choosing. The chosen participant again says "0" and points to another participant. The third participant does the same with "7". The last person (the "007") says "bang" and points to one final participant. The victim must then raise both hands. Due to collateral damage, both players to his immediate left and right must also raise both hands.

The goal of this game is to keep up the routine without making mistakes. Those who make mistakes are eliminated from the game. The game is seemingly simple, but requires constant attention from all players. The tension is real because nobody wants to lose in such a simple game!

The game usually lasts for few rounds after few players are eliminated. By then, energy levels would have been restored. I find that when someone starts making "smart" moves, like shooting himself, it is a good indication that it's time to move on.