Serious.Games
AgileFree

SOS Titanic in Distress

Turn the lifeboat over to survive the disaster!

Duration · 15 min
Participants · 4–30
Level · Intermediate

SOS Titanic in Distress is a collaborative game where participants must turn over a lifeboat to access supplies. The game highlights communication, cooperation, and creativity in a crisis context. Participants face a complex problem that requires strategic thinking and excellent coordination to solve.

Walkthrough

  1. 1

    Introduction

    10 min

    The facilitator explains the context: participants are survivors of a shipwreck and must turn over a lifeboat to access supplies. They describe the rules of the game and the objectives: collaborate to find a solution within a limited time. Participants are encouraged to ask questions to clarify the rules.

    TipUse a captivating story to immerse participants in the scenario.

  2. 2

    Team Formation

    5 min

    The facilitator divides the group into teams of 4 to 6 people. Each team receives a workspace around a lifeboat (symbolised by an object or structure to be turned over). Teams must choose a captain to guide them in discussion and decision-making.

    TipEnsure that teams are balanced in terms of skills and personalities.

  3. 3

    Planning Phase

    15 min

    Each team discusses and develops a plan to turn over the lifeboat. Participants must identify available resources, assign roles, and define the steps to achieve their goal. The facilitator moves among the groups to provide guidance and encourage collective thinking.

    TipEncourage teams to consider multiple strategies before diving in.

  4. 4

    Plan Execution

    20 min

    Teams implement their plan to turn over the lifeboat. They must work together, adjust their strategy if necessary, and communicate effectively to succeed. The facilitator observes and notes group dynamics, strategies used, and challenges encountered.

    TipStay alert for signs of blockage and offer subtle hints to help teams progress.

  5. 5

    Calm Down

    5 min

    After execution, the facilitator gathers the teams for a calm-down session. They congratulate participants for their efforts and cooperation. This step allows for tension release before the debriefing.

    TipUse a quick relaxation technique, such as deep breathing, to help participants unwind.

  6. 6

    Debriefing

    20 min

    The facilitator leads a discussion to allow participants to share their experiences and identify lessons learned. Debriefing questions are posed to stimulate reflection and encourage idea sharing.

    TipEncourage each participant to express themselves to obtain a variety of perspectives.

Variants

  • Add additional constraints, such as a stricter time limit, to increase difficulty.
  • Integrate specific roles with unique skills for each participant to diversify approaches.
  • Introduce an element of surprise by changing the rules mid-game, forcing teams to adapt quickly.

Debrief guide

  • What strategies were most effective in turning over the lifeboat?
  • How did communication influence your team's success?
  • What were the main challenges encountered and how did you overcome them?
  • How did you manage disagreements within your team?
  • What individual skills were highlighted during the game?
  • What would you do differently if you were to replay this scenario?
  • How can you apply the lessons learned to your daily work?