Let’s rewind to 2020. Banana bread was rising, pub quizzes were going digital, and the words “you’re on mute” echoed through the nation’s headsets. Back then, team building virtual activities were the only game in town. But fast forward to today, and while the world has reopened, something else has stuck around — the way we work.
Remote and hybrid working isn’t a trend anymore. It’s just… work. Whether you’re a fully remote agency scattered across continents, or a hybrid setup with a few days in the office (when Karen remembers it’s her turn to bring the biscuits), most teams simply don’t spend as much face time together as they used to. Enter: team building virtual activities — the not-so-secret sauce keeping teams connected in a disconnected world.
So, why are virtual team building activities still relevant?
Because humans are social creatures — even the spreadsheet-loving introverts among us. When you strip away the hallway chats and Friday drinks, teams can start to feel like individuals working in parallel universes rather than collaborative squads.
Virtual team building activities give everyone a chance to interact beyond the to-do list. They bring laughter, collaboration, and sometimes fierce (but friendly) competition, into a space that otherwise revolves around tasks and deadlines. In short, they recreate that watercooler energy — without the limescale.
And with 74% of UK companies planning to permanently adopt hybrid work models (CIPD), building a sense of team virtually isn’t just nice to have anymore. It’s essential.
What makes a great virtual team building activity?
It’s not enough to throw a Zoom call on the calendar and hope for the best. The best virtual experiences:
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Create connection, not cringe
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Fit within work hours (no one wants to “team build” at 8pm)
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Are easy to access with zero tech faff
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Have a shared goal — whether that’s cracking a mystery, completing a mission, or building the best meme in the room
Luckily, you don’t have to spend hours trawling Google to find options. We’ve got some tried-and-tested winners right here.
Our top team building virtual activities
1. Around the World – The Ultimate Online Adventure
Let your team globe-trot from the comfort of their kitchen tables. Around the World is a virtual race packed with international trivia, cultural challenges, and teamwork trials that test creativity and collaboration. It’s high-energy, hilarious, and perfect for teams that love a challenge (and maybe a bit of passport envy).
2. Escape the Mansion – Virtual Online Escape Room
You’re trapped in a spooky mansion and only one thing will get you out: teamwork. This virtual escape room throws your team into a world of logic puzzles, secret passages, and fiendish challenges. Great for lateral thinkers, budding detectives, and anyone who wants to outsmart their colleagues.
3. Team Connected – Virtual Communication Challenge
Think your team’s communication is spot on? Think again. Team Connected is a live-hosted challenge where groups must describe, delegate, and decipher their way to success. It’s proof that clear communication beats clever strategy every time. Bonus: it sparks some excellent office banter afterwards.
4. Escape Polar Survival – The Arctic Mission
It’s cold. It’s dangerous. It’s virtual. Escape Polar Survival drops your team into an icy survival scenario where you must crack codes, complete tasks, and escape before the digital frostbite sets in. Expect tension, teamwork, and plenty of laughs (plus a renewed appreciation for central heating).
Explore Escape Polar Survival ➜
Why team building virtually works
Aside from the fact that it’s logistically easy and doesn’t involve battling train strikes or soggy Pret sandwiches, virtual team building actually works. Here’s why:
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Inclusivity: Everyone joins from the same playing field — whether they’re in London or Lisbon.
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Time efficient: No travel, no fuss. It can fit into a lunch hour or a half-day with ease.
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Cost-effective: No need for venues or catering. All you need is a screen and some internet (and maybe a biscuit or two).
It’s also perfect for onboarding remote employees, breaking the ice at virtual conferences, or injecting energy into a grey Wednesday afternoon.
Tips for making your virtual event a success
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Pick the right activity for your team. Got a competitive bunch? Try an escape room. Love puzzles and quick-thinking? Go global with Around the World. Want to improve how your team communicates? Team Connected is the one.
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Schedule wisely — avoid end-of-day slots when people are drained or distracted.
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Set expectations — it’s meant to be fun, but it still deserves everyone’s attention.
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Get leadership involved — nothing says “we value this” more than a manager showing up ready to play.
Final thought on team building virtual activities
Just because your team doesn’t sit next to each other, doesn’t mean they can’t click together. In fact, building strong connections across screens might be one of the smartest investments you make in your company culture.
Team building virtual activities aren’t a lockdown relic — they’re your not-so-secret weapon for a happier, more connected workforce.
What our clients say about team building virtual activities
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“We used Zing for a virtual event with our global team and it was absolutely brilliant. Everyone was engaged, laughing and talking about it for days afterwards!”
– HR Manager, Global Consultancy
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“Escape the Mansion was SO much fun. We’ll never look at our colleagues the same way again!”
– Marketing Lead, Tech Firm
FAQs
How long do virtual team building activities take?
Most activities are 60–90 minutes, but timings can be adjusted to suit your schedule.
How many people can take part?
Anywhere from 5 to 500+. We’ll split larger teams into breakout rooms to keep it engaging.
Can you personalise the activities?
Absolutely. We can include custom trivia, team names, and even brand elements to make it feel 100% yours.
Do we need special tech?
Nope — just Zoom, Microsoft Teams or similar. We’ll do all the behind-the-scenes setup so your team just logs in and enjoys.
Are these activities good for international teams?
Yes! All activities are designed to run globally, with live hosts and clear instructions that work across time zones.
