Conflict Tornado – Hidden Role Simulation Game

Objective:
To help participants understand the dynamics of conflict by experiencing hidden agendas, misunderstandings, and the escalation of group tensions in a social deduction-style game similar to Werewolf.

Materials Needed:

• Role Cards (Pre-assigned roles such as Peacemaker, Instigator, Observer, Mediator, Escalator, etc.)

• Scenario Cards (Different workplace or organizational conflict scenarios)

• Timer or stopwatch

• Notepads (optional for players to track interactions)

Group Size:

• 6-12 participants per round

• Multiple groups can play simultaneously if needed

Time Required:

• 30-40 minutes total

  • 5 minutes for introduction and role assignment

  • 20 minutes for Conflict Tornado Simulation

  • 10-15 minutes for debrief and discussion

Instructions:

1. Assign Hidden Roles (5 min)
   Each participant randomly receives a role card that dictates their approach to conflict. Possible roles include:

   • • Peacemaker: Tries to calm the situation and de-escalate conflict.

     • Instigator: Fuels the conflict by spreading misinformation or escalating tensions.

     • Observer: Watches and takes notes but does not actively engage.

     • Mediator: Tries to guide the team toward resolution.

     • Escalator: Overreacts to small issues, making them seem larger.

   • Roles are secret, and players act according to their role throughout the game.

2. Start the Conflict Scenario (20 min)
   The facilitator introduces a workplace conflict scenario (e.g., miscommunication about deadlines, differing work styles, or leadership struggles).

   • Participants engage in discussion based on their assigned roles, letting tensions naturally build or subside.

   • The facilitator moderates the discussion, watching how the team navigates conflict dynamics.

3. Conflict Tornado Simulation Rounds
   Every 5 minutes, the facilitator introduces a new “event” that adds another layer to the conflict (e.g., a rumor spreads, a deadline gets moved, someone is unfairly blamed).

   • Participants must react in character and either escalate or attempt to resolve the conflict.

   • If conflict spirals out of control, the group experiences the “Tornado Effect,” where misunderstandings pile up and tensions increase.

   • If conflict is resolved early, the group wins by finding a peaceful solution before escalation.

4. Debriefing Discussion (10-15 min)
   After the activity, participants reflect on their experience and discuss:

   • • Who played what role, and how did it impact the group dynamic?

     • At what point did the conflict become harder to control?

     • How do these dynamics appear in real-world teamwork situations?

   • The facilitator highlights strategies for identifying and managing conflict in professional settings.

Facilitator Notes:

• Keep the role assignments secret to encourage participants to play naturally.

• If necessary, pause the game mid-round to ask: “What do you notice happening in the group?”

• Ensure that at least one participant is assigned the Peacemaker role to test their ability to de-escalate conflict.

• If time allows, let participants switch roles and replay the scenario to see how different personalities influence team conflict.

Conclusion:
This game-based simulation mirrors real-world conflict escalation, allowing participants to experience the hidden forces that shape group dynamics. By navigating conflict within the game, participants gain insights into how tensions escalate and how to prevent them in actual work environments.