Streets and Alleys

Name and Purpose

Streets and Alleys is a high-energy chase game where the whole group creates a shifting maze.
Players practise spatial awareness, listening, and quick reactions.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 15-40 players | 15-25 minutes | Large flat area, gym or field (minimum 15m x 15m)

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Arrange players in a grid (e.g., 5 rows of 5), arms stretched out to form “streets.”
One player is the Chaser, one is the Runner.
Facilitator calls “Alleys!” and grid players turn 90 degrees left, changing the maze.
Chaser and Runner move through gaps but cannot break through arms.
Rotate Chaser and Runner every 60-90 seconds.

Setup and Boundaries

Arrange the grid so rows and columns are evenly spaced (about 1.5m between players)
Grid players stand with arms outstretched, not holding hands (safety: no sprains)
Signal: facilitator voice call “Streets!” or “Alleys!” to shift the maze
1 whistle = freeze (safety stop); 2 whistles = round over, gather
Check ground for debris, holes, or wet patches

How to Play

All grid players face the facilitator with arms stretched out. This is “Streets” position.
One player is the Chaser, one is the Runner. They start on opposite sides of the grid.
On “Go,” the Chaser tries to tag the Runner. Both may only run through the open lanes between rows. No breaking through arms.
The facilitator calls “Alleys!” at any time. Grid players turn 90 degrees to the left, instantly changing the pathways.
The facilitator calls “Streets!” to return to the original layout.
If the Chaser tags the Runner, or after 60-90 seconds, rotate both roles to new volunteers.
Second Circle: players who want a break step out and become “Maze Architects,” suggesting when to call Streets or Alleys.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Chaser or Runner
S (Support): Grid player, actively shifting on command and helping create the maze
Q (Quiet): Grid player standing in place, turning on cue
O (Observer): Watch from the side, suggest maze shifts to the facilitator, choose when to rotate in

Inclusion Adaptations

Walk-only version: Chaser and Runner walk quickly instead of running (especially on hard surfaces)
Seated grid option: grid players sit on chairs with arms extended for players who cannot stand for extended periods

Stewardship Moment

“We used this whole space. Before we move on, everyone scan your zone for any litter.”
Quick 30-second pickup sweep

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game has two people chasing through a human maze. For those who’d rather be part of the maze than run, that’s a great role too. You can also watch and suggest maze changes.”
Mid-game check: After 2-3 rotations, pause. “Thumbs up, sideways, or down.”
Opt-out/re-entry: Step to the observer zone any time. Raise hand to rotate in.

Risks and Mitigation

Collisions in the grid: remind Chaser and Runner to watch for grid players turning; walk-speed first round
Grid players’ arms hit during a turn: space rows 1.5m apart; arms out but relaxed
Same player stuck as Chaser too long: rotate every 60-90 seconds, no exceptions
Hard surfaces: limit to fast walking on asphalt or gravel

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Compass Turns”: everyone practises turning 90 degrees left on a call, getting used to the grid mechanic
“Speed Walk Relay”: pairs walk as fast as possible across the space without running

Debrief Questions

What? “What happened when the maze shifted? How did it feel?”
So What? “What did you notice about adapting quickly to change?”
Now What? “When do you have to adjust your plan in real life because something shifted?”

Cleanup and Reset