Totem: The Feel Good Game (2015) Board Game

Totem: The Feel Good Game is a party game released in 2015, designed by Tessa Paradis, Carol Rancourt, and Jade Temblay. The game is focused on building totem poles and creating positive vibes among players. It is suitable for 3–8 players, with a runtime of 15–60 minutes and recommended for ages 8 and up.

Game Components of Totem: The Feel Good Game

Animal cards

Quality cards

Totem cards for creating player profiles

How To Setup Totem: The Feel Good Game

To set up the game, players start by shuffling the animal and quality cards. Each player receives a set of cards, and they take turns creating totems for one another by combining animal and quality cards. This process helps players appreciate the strengths and qualities others see in them.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drawing: Players draw animal and quality cards.

Totem Creation: Players create totems by matching animal and quality cards.

Sharing Feedback: Players share the totems they created for each other, promoting open and honest conversations.

Objective: The game aims to help players discover their strengths and qualities through the eyes of others, enhancing self-esteem and family bonds.

Player Experience

Playing Totem: The Feel Good Game is an interactive and emotive experience. It encourages players to engage in meaningful conversations, allowing them to understand and appreciate each other’s strengths. The game is inspired by Self-Determination Theory research, which focuses on intrinsic motivation and the human need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Pros

Boosts Self-Esteem: Helps players recognize their positive qualities.

Family Bonding: Strengthens relationships through open conversations.

Easy to Learn: Simple mechanics make it accessible to a wide age range.

Positive Environment: Fosters a supportive and appreciative atmosphere.

Cons

Limited Complexity: May not appeal to players seeking complex gameplay.

Emotional Sensitivity: Requires players to be open to receiving and giving feedback.

Personal Thoughts on Totem: The Feel Good Game

Totem: The Feel Good Game is ideal for families, educational settings, and team-building activities. It is particularly beneficial for children aged 8 and above, as it helps them develop a positive self-image and understand the value of constructive feedback. The game’s emphasis on personal development and social bonding makes it a valuable addition to any environment where building positive relationships is a priority.

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