About Survivor Games
Survivor Games is PLAY Youth's annual team competition where high school students compete in weekly challenges designed to test strategy, teamwork, communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Teams of three participants progress through a series of unique challenges throughout the season, earning points and advancing toward the final championship. The program combines friendly competition with personal growth — encouraging participants to develop leadership skills, build friendships, and strengthen their ability to work effectively as a team.
Since 2023, the program has brought together students from different schools across Ottawa in a structured, engaging competition where success depends on collaboration rather than individual performance.
What Makes It Special
The Essentials
How It Works
Survivor Games is a team-based seasonal competition where teams of three compete in weekly challenges and earn points throughout the season. Each week includes one game that affects your standing in the competition.
Points Game
Compete to improve your ranking.
- Earn points
- Move up the leaderboard
- Performance impacts season standing
Protection Game
Compete for safety.
- Earn immunity
- Secure your place for the week
- Avoid elimination risk
How a Week Plays Out
No elimination — the system introduction phase where teams learn how the competition works.
The first elimination begins, and every result starts to carry real weight.
Competition intensity increases steadily as teams push toward the finale.
As the season progresses, strategy becomes just as important as performance.
Four Types of Challenges
Each week teams face a new challenge. Game types stay consistent, but the specific games change every season to keep the competition fair and unpredictable.
Strategy Challenges
Test planning, logic, and decision-making under pressure. Teams must think ahead and make smart group decisions.
Creative Challenges
Focus on creativity, design, and expression. Teams build, create, or present ideas within set time limits.
Communication Challenges
Test teamwork and communication. Success depends on coordination, clarity, and how well the team works together.
Interactive Challenges
Focus on movement, coordination, and teamwork in active environments. Some weeks feature one main game; others combine several smaller activities into one challenge.
2026–2027 Season
The Survivor Games season runs from September to January, featuring weekly competition sessions throughout the program.
A Growing Tradition
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
Survivor Games is open to high school students.
How many students are in a team?
Each team consists of three participants.
Do we know the games in advance?
No. Challenge details are not fully released in advance, to ensure fairness and excitement throughout the season.
How long does the program run?
The season runs from September to January with weekly competition sessions.
Are all challenges physical games?
No. Challenges may include strategy, creative, communication, and interactive tasks.
Can students from different schools be on the same team?
Yes. Teams can include students from different schools.
What happens if a team member is absent?
With prior consent, teams may compete with an alternate participant or register a replacement depending on the situation.
Is there a prize?
Yes. Winning teams receive cash prizes and recognition at the end of the season.
Ready to Compete?
Build your team of three, take on the challenges, and make your mark in Ottawa's annual high school competition.