The accessible alternative to 2v2 current-events debate
Public Forum (PF) is a 2v2 debate format run by the National Speech & Debate Association, primarily for high-school students. Teams debate a current-events resolution that changes monthly and present to a "lay" judge meant to represent an ordinary citizen.
PF is known for crossfire, a round where opposing speakers question each other directly, and for being more accessible than Policy or Lincoln-Douglas. But it still requires a month of evidence gathering per topic, a coin flip for sides, and it lives almost entirely on the high-school circuit.
SuperDebate keeps what people love about PF, timely topics and plain-language argument, while removing the prep grind and opening it to adults of every level.
Build and present your original arguments. Make your case clearly and persuasively.
Question your opponent. Clarify positions and expose weaknesses in their arguments.
Respond to your opponent's arguments and reinforce your own. Deliver your closing.
That's it. Three speech types, infinitely configurable. From Quick 18-minute rounds to In-Depth 60-minute debates.
| Feature | SuperDebate | Public Forum (PF) |
|---|---|---|
| Participants | 1v1 to 5v5 (flexible) | 2v2 only (fixed) |
| Preparation | No advance prep. Topics at the event. | A month of evidence gathering per topic |
| Topic cycle | Fresh topics each event | One resolution per month |
| Side selection | Assigned at event | Coin flip decides side + speaking order |
| Age / status | Open to all ages | Primarily high school (NSDA) |
| Questioning | Structured cross-examination | Crossfire (simultaneous Q&A) |
| Evidence | Reason from the topic live | Pre-built cards & evidence files |
| Learning curve | Minimal. Start immediately. | Moderate. Circuit norms to learn. |
| Cost | Free or minimal | Tournament fees, coaching, travel |
PF is loved for timely, real-world topics. SuperDebate keeps that energy with fresh topics every event.
Skip the evidence-gathering grind. Topics land at the event and you compete on quick, clear thinking.
Not locked to 2v2. Go solo, 2v2, or up to 5v5 depending on the night and your preference.
PF is a high-school activity. SuperDebate is a real league for working adults, in person and online.
Direct questioning with a clear turn structure, instead of crossfire free-for-alls where the loudest voice wins.
No pre-cut evidence cards. Your case is built live from your own analysis, a level playing field.
No month of evidence prep. No coin flip. Just show up and debate.
