A fast-flowing, imagination-first partner game

In a nutshell

Partners take turns pulling imagined objects out of an imaginary box. The goal is to surprise yourself, respond instinctively, and play in the space between certainty and chaos.

Instructions

• Pairs sit on chairs, facing each other, ~2ft apart.

• Clear tables and clutter if needed.

• Emphasize quick transition into setup.

• Use a signal (e.g., horn) to indicate instruction time.

Game Play:

1. Take turns pulling imaginary items from the box between you.

2. Each “pull” should be spontaneous—discover it as you do it.

3. Partner reacts non-verbally (emotion, sound, facial expression).

4. No talking or explaining—just action and reaction.

5. Continue for 3–4 minutes, aiming for a new object every 10–15 seconds.

Encourage:

• Committing to bold choices.

• Letting go of planning.

• Being surprised by your own imagination.

• Allowing unrelated objects—no story-building needed.

• Non-verbal “yes and”ing via reactions.

Outcomes

• Unlocks playful spontaneity

• Reduces fear of “getting it wrong”

• Builds focus and partner awareness

• Connects participants to their creative impulse

Focus areas / Things to flag up

• Some participants may hesitate—remind them: there’s no wrong

• Watch for over-explaining or verbal processing—redirect to doing

• Energy mismatch in pairs? Invite them to tune into each other’s rhythm

• People may default to story logic—reassure that randomness is fine

Benefits

• Warm-up for imagination, play, and “presence in uncertainty”

• Builds trust in one’s impulses and partner connection

• Good diagnostic for group creative energy and permission levels

Riffs and Variations

Introvert-Friendly: Allow reactions to be small and internal (a smile, raised eyebrow). Give permission for stillness.

Self Connection: After the game, reflect silently or journal: Which object felt most “me” today? Which one felt furthest from me? Why?

Emotion Lens: Pick a mood (e.g., grief, delight, mischief) and pull objects “from that world”

Sensory Variation: Do it eyes closed or with eyes on the floor, focusing on feeling rather than performance