Overview
We’re Not Really Strangers is different from the type of game you’re likely thinking of. There are no points or complicated rules — it’s just a question game. The game comes in a bright red box with about 150 cards, each with a thought-provoking question. The creator Koreen Odiney wanted to find an easier but impactful way to foster deeper conversations between people. It could be played with strangers, but these questions can also help you get to know your closest friends and family in a way you might not have otherwise.
A standard deck comes with questions in three levels: perception, connection, and reflection. There are also wild cards, a small notepad, and a pencil for challenges that require drawing or writing.
So, is this game safe for kids? If you’re looking for a way to connect deeper with your kids, it’s certainly worth a try! But here are some things you should know.
Harmful Content ❗️
Parents should know that the standard edition of We’re Not Really Strangers is for ages 15+. The cards don’t have inappropriate or explicit content on them, but the questions require a higher level of maturity (and sometimes just general life experience) to truly have an impact.
You don’t have to worry about the cards themselves, but the resulting conversation could lead to personal and intense places, depending on the question and the people playing. If you play with your kids, you may need to cherry-pick the ones that are most appropriate for your kids.
Lastly, it’s important to note that there’s a Kids edition for ages 5+ with questions more tailored to young kids and building connections between family members. Also note: There’s an Adults and a Couples edition, and needless to say, these are not appropriate for kids.
Language
There is no profanity in this game. But again, there are adult concepts and language that younger kids may struggle to understand or relate to.
Sex
We’re Not Really Strangers does not have any sexual content.
Violence
This game does not have any violent content.
Positive Value 💫
This game promotes intentionality, vulnerability, and connectivity with others — whether that’s strangers, friends, family, or anyone you desire to have a deeper conversation with. For kids, this can help encourage curiosity about themselves and others, as well as reflection on their own feelings and experiences.
Tons of parents can fall into a rut of wanting a deeper connection with their kids, but not knowing quite how to get there. Kids and teens don’t always know how to articulate their feelings or volunteer information without a prompt. Oftentimes, it takes a thoughtful question to draw it out of them, and this game can absolutely provide opportunities for a more intentional conversation with your kids.
So, should my kid play it?
Yes, we suggest older kids can play this game, but we definitely recommend the Kids edition for any player under 15.
