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Last Updated on December 19, 2022

So, what exactly are “Pick a Number” games? Well, as you have probably already guessed this can be any game where you choose a number and then follow instructions associated with that number. Other variations provide riddles or even gifts instead of instructions. As you will soon see, there are a surprising number of these games!

1. Likes and Dislikes

For this game, you can print different cards (so that no one can guess the questions beforehand). You can also have a game master with the only card. A person has to pick a number and their teammate or the game master then ask them a “like” or “dislike” that is associated with that number. 

Keep it simple and designed to get to know the person better – like their taste in food, clothing, music, and hobbies.

2. Icebreaker Game

The purpose of these gatherings is normally for people to get to know each other better. Corporate companies and learning institutions like universities and colleges often host icebreakers. 

Questions should never be too personal or uncomfortable. Stick to basic and informative queries about their names, job position, and favorite snack when it’s lunchtime. Get creative and don’t forget to include a couple of funny questions to keep the mood light.

3. Future Goals and Dreams

This is a good game for friends and those you feel comfortable with. After all, answering questions about what you want to do with your life can make someone feel very exposed and vulnerable. 

So, if you are looking for a game to add to your bridal shower or bachelorette’s, give this one a shot. Questions can revolve around goals for romance, family, career, hobbies and travelling.

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4. Life Experiences

This numbers game is the opposite of “goals and dreams.” The latter is all about the future. Life Experiences is all about the past. You can ask questions to find out more about your buddy’s best vacation, birthday gift, romantic date, a great experience with one of their kids and so on. 

The only rule is to keep this game positive. This way, you will learn more about your friends simply by listening to the moments that brought them special memories. 

5. Ask Me Anything

Okay, now the gloves are off! If you and your friends are game, then zing each other with any question under the sun. Nothing is off-limits – hence the name of the game. This can lead to a couple of eye-opening moments, a ton of laughter and even funny scandals being admitted to. However, never force someone to talk if they find the question a little too personal. 

6. Fantasy Personas

In this game, players must answer questions. Not as themselves but as fantasy personas. You can choose dragons, demons, werewolves, elves. It’s up to you. Each participant must pick a number to find out what type of creature they are. 

What kind of questions can be asked? Well, anything that is unusual and creative! For example, ask the werewolf how they detangle their hair after a wild night of hunting, what national holidays the elf celebrates and what the dragon likes to do in its spare time. This game is a top favorite for those who like fantasy games, roles and creative activities.

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7. The Math Challenge

This is a good game for students or friends who love brain challenges. Choose several numbers for your guests to choose from. Each number is, of course, connected to a worthy math challenge! Make sure that the solutions are age-appropriate if you are playing this game with children. 

You can also design this game without having to prepare the problems yourself. There are countless math riddles available online, so go grab the best!

8. If You Were A…

This is kind of the same as “Fantasy Personas.” However, this time the roles are firmly rooted in reality. 

Ask your guests questions to determine how they will behave in certain situations if they were… an influencer, a royal ruler, the opposite gender, you get the idea. Make the situations funny, daring, and downright strange! 

9. Numbers Game for Couples

Many couples play games together. Pick a number games can really help you to get to know your partner better, whether it is on a silly, platonic or romantic level. 

Depending on the situation, you can keep the questions personal, humorous, or even a little erotic. Discover each other’s likes and dislikes, goals, favorite dates with each other in the past or more steamy facts!

10. Give a Gift

This is a fun numbers game for birthdays and other parties where gifts are usually given. The idea is to choose the same amount of numbers (and goodies) as the kids or bridesmaids attending. You get the idea.

Add the numbers to lots and give every guest a turn to pull a card from a hat or some other container. They are then given the gift linked to their ticket’s number. Do make sure that the gifts are not all the same but that they share the same quality and value.

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11. Pop a Balloon

Write numbers on pieces of paper, roll them up and insert them into balloons. Blow up the balloons, tie them off and hang them in a bunch. You can use this fun game at birthday parties, office parties, private get-togethers and even at your school.

The game is very flexible. In other words, you can connect the numbers to any activity, age group or gathering. Give each person a toothpick, let them pop a balloon and see what their number holds!

12. Numbers Treasure Hunt

If your friends love complex treasure hunts, then you can certainly include a “pick a number” element in the game. 

How exactly? This might require some thinking on your part but let’s look at a few examples. When the teams are given clues, they can pick a number. In other words, several teams will receive different clues to solve the same challenge. You can also use numbers to randomly choose a team’s members.  

13. Sleepover Activities

This is another great one for kids. It works on the same principle as picking numbers from a jar or choosing random numbers printed on a card (as you have seen with some of the other games). 

But this time, each number is connected to a surprise or a fun activity for the children to do. It can be snacks, a competition or gift bags. This numbers game is guaranteed to make your kid’s sleepover party the most memorable one on the block!