Backpack – Princess – Couch

This fast-paced partner game will get everyone moving—and laughing! Players must race to form hilarious team poses based on the prompt called out by the leader. From leaping into each other's arms to pretending to be a piece of furniture, it’s all about quick thinking, physical comedy, and switching up your partner every round.

Author

Josh Barriger
May 08, 2025

Gameplay

  • 8+ Players 👥

  • 4-7 Minutes ⏱️

What You’ll Need

  • Open indoor or outdoor space

  • Energetic group of players

Setup

  • Clear a large space where players can move around freely.

  • Review the three pose options with the group before beginning.

How to Play

  • Explain the 3 Poses:

    • Backpack – One player jumps on another’s back like a backpack.

    • Princess – One player cradles another like a dramatic rescue scene.

    • Couch – One player gets on all fours while the other sits on their back.

  • Give the Partner Rule:
    Players should only pair with someone of the same gender. No repeating partners back-to-back.

  • Call Out a Pose:
    Shout one of the three poses. Players must run to find a new partner and perform the pose as quickly as possible.

  • Eliminate the Last Pair:
    The last team to complete the action is out. Let them cheer on the rest from the sidelines!

  • Repeat:
    Shuffle the remaining players, call out a new pose, and repeat until only one duo remains.

Say Something Like
“Alright, get ready for the silliest showdown of the night! You’ll need speed, strength, and just the right amount of dramatic flair. But remember—no partner repeats! Let’s see who can keep their cool and their balance the longest!”

Variations

  • Run & Scramble – Start each round with players spread across the room so they have to sprint to find a partner.

  • Pose Freeze Frame – Have a judge score the best performance for bonus points.

Discipleship Teaching Points
This game encourages quick thinking, teamwork, and adaptability—helpful reminders that sometimes we need to lean on others and stay flexible when life throws surprises our way.

Secular Teaching Points
This game encourages adaptability, quick decision-making, and respectful physical interaction. Players must practice inclusion by rotating partners and learn to work with a variety of personalities. It also builds confidence and body awareness as they engage in silly, cooperative poses that require trust and communication.

This game idea was sent in by Josh Barriger. If you want to support him, head over and buy him a coffee!

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Keywords: partner game, movement, team challenge, energy, fast-paced, dramatic

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