Icebreaker ideas for large groups you can use in Zoom meetings
Many companies likely make use of icebreakers in a variety of situations.
I’m sure there are also many people who feel more nervous than usual when they’re online.
That said, icebreakers for remote work can be tricky…
For those who feel that way, here are some online icebreakers you can do that are fun even with large groups.
Since we’re talking about large groups, we’ve focused on options that don’t require any materials.
These should help everyone loosen up and relax!
- Recreation activities that large groups can enjoy on Zoom
- [In a Short Time] Icebreakers and Fun Games That Shine at Morning Meetings
- Icebreaker Ideas and Games Collection
- [Online] Recreation Games to Liven Up Your Zoom Sessions
- A simple and fun co-op game that enhances teamwork
- A roundup of recommended personality tests for icebreakers
- Games you can play with just conversation. Classic and popular activities you can enjoy without any props!
- Challenge together! A roundup of word games for adults
- A collection of icebreakers you can enjoy with a small group
- A roundup of recommended icebreakers for college students
- [Simple Games] Recommended Indoor Recreational Activities for Adults
- [Self-Introduction & Games] Icebreaker Ideas Collection
- [For Elementary School Students] A Collection of Games and Activities You Can Enjoy on Zoom
Large-group icebreaker ideas you can use in Zoom meetings (11–20)
Synchro Word Game
It’s an icebreaker called the “Synchro Word Game.” Everyone answers words related to a given theme—either directly tied to it or inspired by it.
If everyone gives different answers, that’s a failure.
If exactly two people give the same answer and the rest are different, you get 2 points; in this way, points increase based on how many people matched.
It’s perfect for boosting teamwork.
With a large group, you can split into teams and compete on total points, which should be exciting.
It’s a lively, energetic icebreaker that’s great for easing nerves.
two-handed rock-paper-scissors
Rock-paper-scissors using both hands? It’s an icebreaker called two-handed rock-paper-scissors.
First, one person shows rock, paper, or scissors on the screen, and everyone tries to beat it with just one hand.
Once you get used to the pace, move on to the next step: for each gesture that person shows, your right hand must win and your left hand must lose.
For example, if the leader shows rock, you should instantly show paper with your right hand and scissors with your left.
It looks easy when you read about it or watch someone do it, but when you try it yourself, your brain gets all tangled up (lol).
Shiritori with things found at home
For an online icebreaker, many people are probably joining from home, right? How about trying a slightly different version of shiritori: “shiritori with things you have at home”? Let’s play using items you can see around you in your room.
Even if you’re not at home, there should be something in the office—like stationery or supplies! When it’s your turn, set a time limit: find an item and answer within 30 seconds.
You might be surprised by someone’s unexpected belongings!
Yamanote Line game
For a classic recreation game, the Yamanote Line Game should work well online and even with large groups.
The basic version involves naming stations on Tokyo’s Yamanote Line, but you can set a theme and have everyone answer rhythmically with words that fit that theme.
For example, it’s best to choose widely known themes like “names of fish” or “magazine titles,” rather than something too niche.
If you have a large group, pick themes with plenty of possible answers.
Block-Style Self-Introduction
This is a block-building style self-introduction where each person connects their introduction to the previous ones.
The next person adds on to the first person’s introduction, then the next adds the first person’s, the next person’s, and their own, stacking them like building blocks.
The first or second person has it easy, right? As it continues with three, four people and beyond, it becomes a battle of memory.
Tune out unnecessary topics and focus only on the introductions.
If someone breaks the chain partway through, start over from that person and keep it going around again.