Schism

A game about irreconcilable differences for two players.

Supplies:

• Yarn (a few feet)
• Index cards (2)
• Coin (1)
• Scissors
• A holepunch

Each player defines their character and their relationship to each other. You will need:

• A name & some pronouns
• Three flaws
• A favorite hat or other distinctive accessory

Write this information on your card, leaving space at the top. Use the holepunch to make three holes in each card. Take turns tying cards together with three lengths of yarn. As you attach the yarn, recount a story from the happier days of this relationship. Ask your partner one of these questions on your turn:

• What did you think of me when I ___?
• Where was it that we ___?
• How long was it before ___?

Each strand represents a bond. They are the physical manifestations of your relationship. Once the cards are linked, hold them apart so that the yarn is taut. One player, the Cutter, puts the scissors to a string and names a flaw of the other character’s. That player then narrates how that flaw is causing trouble in the relationship. They must make a decision: try to change to acknowledge their partner’s needs, or power through and refuse to change. If they choose the first, replace that flaw with a new one and pass the scissors to them. If they choose the second, flip the coin.

• On heads, the Cutter describes how a compromise was reached. Pass the scissors.
• On tails, the strife grows like a cancer, straining the relationship. Cut the string.

Continue until all strings are cut.

The remnants of the strings hanging from your card represent the lessons and experience you carry with you into the next stage of your life. For each one, describe what insights your partner left with you as you move on.