WorkshopBank logo
Free WorkshopsNewsletterPricing
Request DemoSign in
WorkshopBank logo
Free WorkshopsNewsletterPricing
Request DemoSign in
Workshop Framework

Prisoner's Dilemma

Prisoner’s Dilemma is a popular team building game which demonstrates whether people display win-win (co-operative) or win-lose orientation (selfish competitive) in a semi-serious environment.

60 minutes
8-16 people
intermediate
Get Full AccessSee What's Included

✓ Created by former KPMG & McKinsey consultants

Prisoners Dilemma Score Card
  1. Home
  2. Workshops
  3. Prisoner's Dilemma

What You'll Achieve with the Prisoner's Dilemma Workshop

Real outcomes that transform your team

1

Enhanced cooperative behavior among team members.

2

Improved understanding of trust and competition dynamics.

3

Increased team engagement through practical exercises.

When to Use the Prisoner's Dilemma Workshop

Perfect for these situations and team challenges

Corporate team-building events aimed at improving collaboration.

Workshops for conflict resolution in teams.

How the Prisoner's Dilemma Workshop Works

A step-by-step breakdown of the workshop process

1Prepare the room

Set up two separate team areas with chairs for team representatives in the center.

2Introduce the concept

Explain the simulation inspired by interrogation tactics, avoiding learning objectives.

3Explain the dilemma

Teams must choose to confess or not, with outcomes depending on both sides' choices.

4Form teams

Divide participants into Team A and Team B, seating them separately with no communication.

5

Key Topics Covered in the Prisoner's Dilemma Workshop

prisoner's dilemmateam buildingcooperationcompetitiontrustcollaboration

Ready to run workshops that create real change?

Two ways to get started:

Choose the path that works best for you

MOST POPULAR

Do it Yourself

Perfect for facilitators, leaders and managers

  • Instant access to sample frameworks
WorkshopBank logo

Team workshops, frameworks and templates you can modify in seconds with our AI

Copyright © 2026 - All rights reserved

Workshops
Premium WorkshopsTeam BuildingChange ManagementAction PlanningPrioritization ActivitiesRisk ManagementProcess ImprovementConference ActivitiesProject ManagementMotivational Activities
Company
PricingRequest DemoTerms of servicesPrivacy policyRefund policy
4

Greater alignment towards shared goals and objectives.

Training sessions focused on trust-building.

Leadership development programs emphasizing cooperative strategies.

Strategic planning retreats to align team objectives.

Team Problems the Prisoner's Dilemma Workshop Solves

Say goodbye to these common team challenges

Lack of collaboration in teams leading to inefficiencies.

Poor trust levels affecting team dynamics.

Difficulty in aligning team objectives and goals.

High levels of competition undermining teamwork.

State the objective

Teams aim to achieve the highest positive score after 10 rounds against the other team.

6Play four rounds

Teams make decisions independently, with scores revealed after each round.

7Pause for conference

Teams may meet via representatives for discussion if both teams agree.

8Play four more rounds

Continue with scoring and decisions, maintaining the competitive spirit.

9Pause for second conference

An optional conference allows teams to discuss their strategies again.

10Play final two rounds

Rounds 9 and 10 score double, intensifying the competition as the game concludes.

11Announce results

Facilitator totals points and compares with the maximum possible score.

12Lead discussion

Facilitate a reflective discussion on attitudes, strategies, and learning points from the game.

Get the Complete Workshop Framework
  • Experience AI customization firsthand
  • No credit card required
  • Start free trial

    Get a Demo

    See it in action with an expert

    • Watch AI customization live
    • Get personalized recommendations
    • Ask questions about your use case
    Book a demo

    Join 200,000+ facilitators and leaders who've transformed their workshops