Mini Marvel Contraptions
Small machines, big teamwork and one chain reaction across the room.
About
In Mini Marvel Contraptions, teams receive a game board and a set of detailed idea cards, which they discuss within their group.
They then share these ideas with other teams to develop a strategy for one overall contraption that will run across the whole room.
Each team designs, builds and tests a number of simple machines, joins them together and tests them again. Next, teams connect their machines to the next team’s and work together to make sure the action flows smoothly from one to the next.
Once the full contraption is complete and tested, the grand finale arrives. The device is triggered and cascades through every simple machine in turn, ending in a simple yet amazing final action that has the whole room cheering. The tabletop format suits any meeting room or conference venue.
Learning outcomes
Mini Marvel Contraptions encourages teams to think creatively and practically, turning ideas on cards into working machines.
Sharing ideas with other teams early sets the tone for collaboration and shows how a common strategy helps everyone succeed.
Testing and retesting builds patience and resilience, and teams learn to improve their designs step by step.
Connecting machines between teams highlights the importance of clear hand-overs. The final cascade is a joyful shared success that reinforces how much can be achieved when everyone works towards one goal. Teams often say it is the moment of the event they remember most.
Facilitators keep teams on track with practical tips and encourage them to help their neighbours when a link fails. The tabletop scale makes it easy to run in a standard meeting room, and the mood in the room during the final run is unforgettable.
Program flow
-
Briefing
Teams receive their game board and idea cards and learn how the shared contraption will work.
-
Share ideas
Teams discuss the cards and agree a strategy with the other teams for the overall contraption.
-
Build and test
Teams build simple machines, join them together and test them again and again.
-
Connect the teams
Teams link their machines to their neighbours' and fine-tune every hand-over.
-
Grand finale
The contraption is triggered and cascades through every machine to the final action.
What is included
Included
- Professional facilitators on the day
- Game boards and idea cards
- Simple machine components
- Testing support from facilitators
- Filming of the finale on request
Not included
- Venue hire
- Catering and refreshments
- Audiovisual equipment
- Coach transfers
- Branded materials
Frequently asked questions
How many participants can take part?
From 10 to 500, split into smaller teams.
How long does it last?
Around 2.5 hours, including the briefing and wrap-up.
Do we need technical skills?
No. The idea cards guide teams, and facilitators help throughout.
Can it run indoors or outdoors?
It works best indoors, in a hotel function room, conference centre or large meeting space.
How much space is needed?
A standard meeting room with tables is enough, as the machines are tabletop size.
All destinations
Cobot Coding Challenge
Build a cobot, code its moves and chase the technology prize.
All destinations
Mission Machine Makers
Design it, build it, test it: a robot made for the mission.
All destinations
Wildlife Haven Builders
Earn the materials, build homes for wildlife and leave nature better off.
All destinations
Giant Marionette Crew
Build a giant puppet and bring it to life with nine pairs of hands.
Request a quote for Mini Marvel Contraptions
Tell us your group size, date and goals. We will reply with a tailored proposal.