The game guide · Empathy
How to play A Different Perspective
Notice a different shape without calling it wrong. Look across a field of similar tokens and find the differently shaped one. The puzzle rewards careful observation of a visible detail, without assigning meaning to the people playing.
Your starting point
Notice a different shape without calling it wrong.
The rules
Scan the tokens and tap the one with a different shape. Compare outlines rather than relying only on colour; the odd token is visually distinct.
A helpful approach
Scan the board in a consistent direction. Compare the outline of each token, and take a second look before deciding which one differs. Notice the difference between the information you have been given and the story you might be assuming around it.
After the game
What detail did you overlook at first and notice on a second look? What respectful question could help you understand someone’s experience without deciding their feelings or needs for them?
There is no need to turn a small moment into a perfect performance. Play again if you want to explore it, or leave it here and take the thought into your day.
The feeling behind it
Listen before deciding what someone must feel. Make room for a perspective that is different from your own.
A women’s storytelling tradition inspires attention to perspective. These games are original and do not reproduce Hikaye tales.
Read our empathy story, inspired by Palestinian Hikaye in Palestine. The UNESCO: The Palestinian Hikaye provides the source context.
Share the invitation
I am here to listen, without writing your story for you. Try A Different Perspective with me, if you fancy a little empathy today.
If someone comes to mind, send them a game they might enjoy. Add your own words, let them choose whether to play, and keep private details out of a public link.