This project was inspired by the concept of “small talk.” One of the most comforting things about small talk is that it is usually revolving around a topic most people can relate to and have an easy conversation with. Although small talk may be important in certain instances, it may not lead to building strong relationships with people. As people are always on the go, it is sometimes difficult to create the substantial connection that can be created through deep conversation. With this game, the intention was to “abolish” this concept of small talk and progress the conversation with deeper and enriching questions.

Research and Inspiration

When formulating this concept, I was struck by a memory I had with a friend where we just searched up a list of deep questions to ask and know each other better — by placing ourselves in uncomfortable conversation which later resulted in a deeper connection. I wanted my game to emulate that feeling. When doing research, I was able to cumulate content and inspiration through similar games like We’re Not Really Strangers and Big Talk.

Game Concept

This game is meant to be played by a pair of people — strangers or even best friends. The intention is to create a deeper bond with someone you may not know or some you may think you know. The game broken down into four levels — Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4 all with varying questions. Along with creating a physical card game, I thought having a digital version would be equally as important as deep conversations can exist to-go as well.

• Amongst the pair there are two roles — answerer & inquirer. These roles switch every turn.

• All cards should be laid out level by level.

• Take turns cycling through the cards within each level. Once you run out of cards, continue to the next level. Inside each deck, there could be a wild card. In that instance, follow the directions on the card.

• Inquirer may use reaction cards to “react” to the answerer’s response

• Each level gets progressively deeper — with different time restrictions to answer each card.

• There are no winners! The real way to win is to walk out with a deeper connection to your partner.