Shifting Alliances
Trust is tested and alliances shift. Who is really on your side?
About
Shifting Alliances is an interactive team activity in which participants work in teams to complete a series of fast-paced challenges that test communication, problem solving and strategic thinking.
All teams share a common objective, but the path to success is not always straightforward. As the experience unfolds, teams reach key decision points that add uncertainty and complexity.
At certain moments, individuals or teams may be given the chance to act in their own interest rather than for the collective good. These choices affect scoring, progress and, ultimately, the final outcome.
The result is a highly engaging environment where collaboration, negotiation and adaptability are essential. Teams must keep reassessing their strategy, managing relationships and responding to changing conditions, just as they do at work.
Learning outcomes
Shifting Alliances is designed to build trust, strengthen team dynamics and improve decision-making in high-pressure situations. By placing participants where collaboration and self-interest compete, it shows clearly how behaviours affect team performance.
Participants become more aware of how trust is formed, challenged and maintained, while developing their skills in communication, negotiation and strategic thinking. Many participants are surprised by how quickly trust can be lost, and how much effort it takes to win it back.
The activity highlights the importance of accountability, alignment and ethical decision-making, especially under time pressure or uncertainty. Because choices show up directly in the scoring, the link between behaviour and results is easy to see.
Through facilitated reflection, teams gain practical insights into how they collaborate, how decisions are made and how individual actions shape collective results. These lessons carry straight into the workplace, supporting stronger teamwork, clearer communication and more effective leadership.
Program flow
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Briefing
Teams are formed, the shared objective is explained and the first challenges are revealed.
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Challenge rounds
Teams complete fast-paced challenges that test communication, problem solving and strategic thinking.
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Decision points
At key moments, players choose between their own interest and the common good, changing scores and progress.
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Shifting strategies
Teams reassess their plans, rebuild relationships and adapt to the changing conditions of the game.
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Facilitated reflection
The group reflects on how trust, decisions and individual actions shaped the final outcome.
What is included
Included
- Facilitation by experienced hosts
- All challenge materials
- Scoring and decision tracking
- Facilitated reflection session
Not included
- Venue rental
- Catering and refreshments
- Audio-visual equipment
- Transportation to and from the venue
- Printing of personalised materials
Frequently asked questions
How many people can take part?
Groups from 10 to 500 guests can take part, working in smaller teams.
How long does the program take?
A typical session runs for about 2 hours.
Is the activity confrontational?
No. The decision points are part of a playful game, and the facilitated reflection keeps the focus on learning together.
Can this be run indoors or outdoors?
Yes. It can be run indoors, outdoors or a combination of both, depending on your venue.
What is the purpose of the decision points?
They let players choose between self-interest and the common good, showing how individual choices affect trust and team results.
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Request a quote for Shifting Alliances
Tell us your group size, date and goals. We will reply with a tailored proposal.