Discovering the Joy of Conversation with “Over Coffee

In today’s digital age, where emojis often replace emotions and texts replace talks, finding genuine connections can seem like a quest for the Holy Grail. But what if I told you there’s a simple game that could transform your conversational skills and deepen your connections? Enter “Over Coffee,” a game I recently discovered that’s more than just a pastime—it’s a tool for meaningful engagement.

Why “Over Coffee”?

“Over Coffee” isn’t just any game. Designed by the talented Cecilia Beaven, it’s a beautifully crafted tool that challenges players to not only speak but to engage, reflect, and connect deeply. The game consists of 35 Topic Cards, 100 Verb Cards, and a Quickstart Instruction Card, all encased in an artfully designed box that speaks to the freedom of expression it encourages.

Gameplay Mechanics

The game plays out in rounds, where one player—the Story Teller—draws a Topic Card and is tasked with sharing a story based on prompts from the card. The other players, equipped with Verb Cards, pose questions to delve deeper into the story, encouraging a dance of dialogue that’s as revealing as it is enriching.

What Sets It Apart

What makes “Over Coffee” unique is its structure. The game provides a framework that encourages safe, open exchanges that might feel awkward in other settings. It’s structured to help players practice asking thoughtful, relevant questions—skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional relationships.

Personal Experience

Playing “Over Coffee” with my family over the holidays opened my eyes to a new way of interacting. It was enlightening to uncover stories I had never heard before, simply because I had never asked the right questions. This game has not only improved my ability to converse but has also shown me the power of intentional dialogue.

The Takeaway

“Over Coffee” is more than just a game—it’s a conversation starter, a relationship builder, and a skill enhancer wrapped in one. Whether you’re looking to break the ice, deepen existing relationships, or just have a meaningful conversation, “Over Coffee” offers a path to conversations that count.

In a world brimming with superficial chatter, “Over Coffee” challenges us to dig deeper and connect on levels we might not venture into on our own. If you’re curious to see how it plays out, check out my full video review where I break down the mechanics and share my personal insights into why this game might just be what we all need to rekindle our conversational courage.