Outdoor Games - Bar Games 101

11 Fun Summer Camp Games For Small Groups to Play

Murphy MacQuaid — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 04:59:45 +0000

I worked at a summer camp in Austin for nine weeks during my student years. I can honestly say they were some of the best weeks of my life. I got involved in all the activities, got to know the kids, and made some friends for life.

One of my favorite parts of working at the summer camp was participating in and coming up with new games for everyone to play while at camp. Some of them involved pairs, and some were for large and small groups.

So, if you’re planning on putting yourself forward for a stint at a summer camp, then coming up with some entertainment to put forward would be beneficial.

I have put together this guide of tried and tested games for small groups at summer camp that is proven to be balls.

I have included games that can be inclusive for everyone and will get everyone interacting with each other, which is vital, especially at the start of summer camp.

So, here are some great summer games you can play with small groups.

1. Camping Bingo

If you’re feeling a bit creative, you can make your own bingo cards at home. You can play Camping Bingo with large groups if you prefer, but it definitely works just as well with small groups. However, I recommend heading to Amazon and buying some camping bingo cards.

The game’s rules are the same as standard bingo; you select someone to be the bingo caller, and they will call out the items on the cards individually. Each time one of the items called out matches one of the pictures on your card, you mark it off or cover it with something.

Once you have all the items on your card marked off, you call out bingo, and the first person to do this is the winner. You can also introduce prizes into the game if you want and extra levels. For example, just like in the usual bingo, you could say the first person to get an entire row wins second prize, and the first person to get the whole card comes first.

2. Bean Bag Bucket Basketball

This is similar to real basketball in that the aim of the game is to get a bean bag to land in a bucket, bowl, or can (whichever you have to hand.)

All you will need to play with is some bean bags and something for them to land in. The buckets need to be placed a few feet apart from each other.

To make the game trickier, whoever throws the bean bag is not allowed to move or walk with it. They must throw instead from the spot they are on. However, if they can’t reach the bucket, they can toss it to another player.

A point is given to the other team if a player drops the bean bags or misses the bucket at any point in the game. The other team then gets to take the bean bag for another turn.

Players can try and block the opposing team’s bean bags, but you are not permitted to touch any other players, and you can’t snatch.

3. Ballon Charades

This is tons of fun, and the kids love it because to play the game, they have to pop the balloons, and what kids don’t love is an excuse to pop a balloon.

The game’s idea has the same concept as classic charades, but the start is slightly more exciting to keep the kids interested.

First, write down random words on small pieces of paper or post-it notes. These can be names of famous people, places, or items. Then, fold them all up, place them inside the mouth of a balloon, and blow the balloon up.

Once all the balloons are inflated, it’s time to start popping. Each player selects a balloon to burst and must act out whatever is on the piece of paper. Whoever guesses the action first gets to pop the next balloon.

4. Indy Five Hundred

This game is excellent fun, burns energy, and gets everyone super excited. However, this does get the kids giddy, so I wouldn’t recommend this as a perfect evening game.

To start with, have the players stand in a circle and give them each a number from one to four. Then provide each number the name of a car, such as Audi, Mercedes, Mini, Porsche, etc.

Next, call out the names of the cars, and whoever has been assigned that car/number must run around the circle and back into their place. Whoever makes it back to their place first is the winner.

The fun part of this game, especially if you’re the game leader like I was, is that you can occasionally shout out things like Flat Tire! This means they have to hop on one leg or a Petrol Leak! Which means they have to trek slowly. You can get creative with these and make up your own. They add another element of fun to the game.

5 Ladder Ball

You will need to invest in a ladder ball set, which you can pick up on sites such as Amazon to play ladder ball.

The aim of the game is to throw the bolas (balls attached by a rope) onto the rungs on a ladder.

It’s straightforward to understand and teach.

The game is played in two teams, and whoever is the first to reach 21 points wins.

You can use sneaky tactics in this game, such as distracting your opponents from scoring by shouting or performing silly actions. You can find a more in-depth version of the rule with our Ladder Toss guide.

6. Murder in the Dark

I love this game. It could be one of my all-time favorites.

To play, everyone is given a piece of paper. One has an “M” on it, and another has a “D” on it. This stands for murderer and detective. The rest of the papers will be blank.

Whoever is the murderer must then kill off the other players by winking at them without other players catching them. If you get winked at, you can fall down in a silly way, and be overly dramatic about it, which always makes everyone laugh.

The detective has to discover who the murderer is before everyone has been taken out.

If you like this game, you might enjoy playing the Mafia card game which has similar aspects but is a little more complex.

7. Noah’s Ark

This is an excellent game for younger children, especially after dinner when they’re getting ready to wind down for the night before bed.

All it entails is calling out the name of an animal that begins with a specific letter and working your way through the alphabet. However, if at any point someone is hesitant with their answer, you’re out of the game.

8. 1-2-3 Look

Another great game that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy is 1-2-3 Look! You also don’t need any special equipment to play it, so it’s accessible no matter where you are.

To start with, everyone shuts their eyes and puts their heads down. Whoever is the game leader then shouts, “1-2-3 Look!” After that, everyone must look up simultaneously while staring at one specific person. If that person is staring back at them, they both point and are out. If they are not, head back down and play again.

You can play another version of this where players scream while looking at each other. This is the original version called Scream Machine, but if you want to keep things on the quiet side, go for this one.

9. Cotton Ball Hockey

This game isn’t just great fun for summer camp but in any situation where you want a good laugh, and it has nothing to do with any hockey you’re probably thinking of. It’s a joke, so it can only be played once and when you’re playing with people who have never heard of it.

All you need is some cotton balls and some gloves.

Have two players sit opposite each other across a table, and ask them to put the gloves on, then empty a bag of cotton balls in the middle, scattered over both sides. Next, blindfold all players, and tell them that to win the game, they must sweep as many balls off the table as possible to get more than their opponent.

However, before they begin sweeping, remove all the cotton balls from the table so they will be frantically swiping away at an empty table when you shout, “Go!“. This is hilarious to watch, and I suggest you have a phone ready to film the whole thing.

10. Sardines

You are probably already familiar with the game sardines, and although it’s an old classic, it remains one of the best games to play at camp.

One person must go and find a perfect hiding place, and then the rest of the kids are released to go and hunt them down separately. When someone finds the hider, they must join them in their hiding place.

One-by-one, all the players should end up squashed in the same hiding place, hence the name sardines.

Whoever is the last person still looking for the hiders is the first hider of the next game.

11. Twister

Twister is another classic game that never gets dull no matter how many times you’ve played, and it’s a great game to get everyone tangled up together at camp.

You will need to invest in a Twister set to play the game.

The idea of the game is to spin the wheel, and whatever it lands on, the player whose turn it is must put a body part on that color, for example, right foot, yellow, or left leg blue. Then, when your next turn comes around, you must leave the other body parts where they are while you try to reach the next position. Anyone who collapses into a heap, or allows their body part to leave a color, is out of the game.

12. Five in Ten

Five in Ten is a nice easy game that you can play indoors and another good to play before winding down for the evening. To play this, players must name five objects from a particular category. Such as five things you see at the farm or five things you get in a kitchen.

You can make up your own rules with this, but when we played it, we had a timer that gave the kids a certain amount of time to share their answers, and if they failed, they were out. Don’t be fooled. This game is a lot tougher than it might sound.

To Round Things Up

There are so many games enjoyed while at summer camp that the kids love, but these are my Top 11, which went down really well when I worked at one in my student years.

Whether you run your own summer camp or are planning to volunteer at one during your next summer break, hopefully, this guide has given you some inspiration for games to keep the kids entertained. Of course, if you want more ideas, you could check out my other guides, such as How to Play Horseshoes and How to Play Bocce Ball.

The post 11 Fun Summer Camp Games For Small Groups to Play appeared first on Bar Games 101.

10 Best BBQ Party Game Ideas for Adults

Murphy MacQuaid — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 12:50:15 +0000

Although food might be the main attraction at any BBQ, there needs to be more to keep everyone entertained once the burgers and chicken wings have all been demolished. If you’re planning on keeping your BBQ a child-free zone, you can be more adventurous with the amusements you choose.

One good thing about adult-only party games is the ability to include drinking into the mix, which can always end up with a real laugh so long as nobody gets carried away.

I have put together a list of varied party ideas, such as drinking games, games you can play on devices in your backyard, and some more energetic games.

So no matter who you invite, there will be something to keep everyone entertained throughout the night. After all, nobody wants to host a BBQ where everyone leaves as soon as the food is gone, right?

The Best BBQ Party Games Ideas for Adults

Boring! I have kept the games as straightforward and easy-to-understand as possible so that there will be no struggle to try to gather everyone around to listen to a long list of rules.

However, with each game recommendation, I will briefly explain how to play the game and what you’ll need to play it.

So, here are my favorite adults-only BBQ game ideas. Feel free to adapt them to suit your group.

1 Giant Jenga

You’ve probably already heard of the stacking blocks game Jenga, but were you aware that there was a giant Jenga that adults in the yard could play?

This is an excellent game of patience and concentration and keeps everyone’s attention. At the same time, you try to compete with your opponents.

If you’ve never played Jenga before, the rules are pretty simple. You start by building a tower of blocks, each row crisscrossing from the one below.

Then each player takes turns removing a block from the tower without collapsing. The first player to cause the tower to collapse is the loser, and the game begins again.

2. Liar Liar

This is a game similar to two truths, one lie, which can be played with no equipment and follows similar rules. Liar Liar is a game in which friends and family test how well they know each other or learn things they never knew about their fellow players.

The game aims for each player to state one lie and one truth, and the player, guessing, scores points for each incorrect answer they give.

I prefer this set, in particular to the freestyle version, because it gives you over 200 topics and role cards, so it means you never get stuck on what to say. I think it keeps people a little more engaged in the game.

3. Giant Chess

Now, stay calm; I am not talking about the giant wizards’ chess like they played in Harry Potter (although how cool would that be?) You can purchase this genuine game to play in your backyard.

Giant Chess is great fun, even for those who need help understanding the proper rules of real chess. It gets everyone involved and can become quite intense once things start to get serious.

Also, if you still need to figure out playing actual chess, you can simplify it and play checkers instead.

4. Tug-O-War

This game has me reminiscing about the field days back in school when parents and kids would compete in super fun games such as relay races, limbo dancing, hoop tossing, and of course, the tug-of-war.

The only rule of this game is to make sure that you have an even amount of people on each side, and of course, try and even it out, so you don’t have all the strongest people on one side; otherwise, it’s not fair.

If you didn’t already know, the aim of the game is for each team to grab an end of the rope and tug. The idea is to try and drag the other team over a line or boundary in the center. It’s great fun, even if it can end up with a few sore hands and butts.

5. Spike Ball

Spike Ball is a great game to invest in if you have a pretty large backyard and are looking for an energetic game for your guests to work up an appetite.

If you’ve ever played volleyball, you’ll already be familiar with the concept. After setting up your equipment, you’ll need to separate into two teams, and each team needs to take its place on either side of the net.

A player from one team serves the ball, and the players on the other side have three chances to return the ball to the other side or spike it into the net. Should they fail, the serving team scores a point. There are other ways to accumulate points throughout the game, too, and the first team to reach 21 points wins the game.

6. Beer Pong

Beer pong will be famous if you’ve any young adults at your BBQ who love to party. In fact, I’ve found it usually goes down with anyone who likes a drink.

Beer pong works with any group of two or more players, and you’ll need 12-20 plastic cups to play, a long table, and a ball.

I find wind balls work the best; they aren’t as heavy as tennis balls, so they don’t cause as much damage, but they are heavier than ping pong balls so that you can throw more accurately. Or, if you want to go all out, you can buy special beer pong sets.

You need to start by arranging the cups into two pyramid shapes at each end of the beer pong table (or any long-length table) and filling them with your beer of choice.

Players then take turns trying to toss balls into their opposing teams’ cups, and when they succeed, a player from the opposing team must drink the contents. The game ends when a team clears the other one’s cups.

7. Heads Up

My family and I love playing this game at any family gathering; its great entertainment and can be done by simply using someone’s mobile phone. All you need to do is download the Heads Up app to one person’s mobile phone, or if you don’t want to play with a phone, you can purchase the Heads Up card version.

You will be given a selection of categories, such as Blockbuster movies, accents, impressions, and animals gone wild.

Taking it in turns, each player selects a category and then proceeds to hold the phone (or card) against their forehead, so everyone else can see it while listening to clues from the other players hinting at what is on their head.

The player has just 60 seconds to determine the answer, or they need to get the point. The player, or team with the highest score at the end of the game, is the winner.

It’s a fast-paced game and almost always ends in tears of laughter for us.

8. Twister

Now I know you’ve already heard of this one, but how can I list my favorite games to play at a BBQ without mentioning the popular game of twister?

Twister has been going on for as long as I can remember. However, I find the original one just as fun. Still, when I purchased the updated game version, I was surprised to learn you can now get it to connect to your Alexa.

Twister is restricted to only 3 or 4 people; otherwise, you can end up in even more of a tangle than is anticipated. You will also need one person to be the moderator and tell each person where to put their hands and feet (if Alexa isn’t doing it for you, of course).

In case you aren’t familiar, the game starts with players standing at each end of the mat, the moderator spinning the arrow on the chart, and calling out a combination such as “right foot, red.”

The player must place their right foot on the red circle. When the next one is called, it could be “left arm yellow,” but you must leave the previous body part on its designated spot until asked to move it. Of course, this eventually ends up in a tangle of bodies.

If at any point your elbows, knees, or face touches the mat. The winner is the last person still in place on the mat. You are eliminated from the game.

9. Cards Against Humanity

Cards Against Humanity is definitely a game you don’t want to involve the kids in, mainly due to its vulgar language and crude tone.

To play the game, the card czar takes a black card and gives each other player ten white cards. The other players must then choose what they think is the funniest card to fill in the blank on the card czars card. The card czar then selects a winner, and they receive several points.

This will be a great addition to your party for anyone looking for a guaranteed laugh that isn’t easily offended. You should check out this more in-depth guide on playing Cards Against Humanity.

10. Ring of Fire

Ending with another drinking game, Ring of Fire is played using a standard deck of 52 cards. If you haven’t already got some sitting in your games cupboard, you can pick them up cheap on Amazon.

To begin the game, place a cup in the middle of your table or playing area, and surround your deck of cards around it in a circle. Each card represents a different action, which you can read more about in this Ring of Fire rules guide. One at a time, players should take cards from the ring and perform the action required.

This is not a game of scoring points as such, but more so about drinking and having a great time. How adventurous can you be with them is the question? You can also make this game entirely unique by adding your own actions instead of following the recommended ones.

A Closing Word

So, that is my top 10 favorite games to play at a BBQ. Hopefully, the list is varied enough for you to be the host with the most at your next BBQ and keep your guests entertained all night long.

Also, you can stick to the rules. The great thing about all the games I’ve discussed is that they are carefree and can be adapted to suit your group, making your BBQ more unique and memorable for your guests.

The post 10 Best BBQ Party Game Ideas for Adults appeared first on Bar Games 101.

Kubb Game Rules and How to Play?

Murphy MacQuaid — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 05:40:31 +0000

We all love a good outdoor lawn game, don’t we? From Washer Toss to Bocce, we all have our favorites. This brings us to Kubb, a unique outdoor lawn game perfect for both adults and children.

Kubb might seem a little unusual at first glance. But the game is quite simple when you know what to do. So, let’s take a look at everything you need to know about Kubb in more detail, shall we?

What is Kubb?

So, what is Kubb? Well, you can think of Kubb as a horseshoes-like game. The objective of the game is deceptively simple. Player’s need to knock over each team’s wooden blocks (the titular Kubbs) in order to win.

However, things aren’t quite that simple. The game can only be won when King Kubb is knocked over. But the King can only be knocked over after all the other Kubbs have been. You also only have a limited number of throws during each round. If you enjoy throwing games like Mölkky, then you’ll enjoy Kubbs.

Plus, Kubb needs to be played on a very specific-sized pitch too. But we’ll talk more about the game rules later on in this guide. Let’s take a quick look at the history. Kubb is a Swedish game that some people believe dates back to the Vikings.

Although there isn’t any supporting evidence for this, however, similar games were around in the early 1900s. Kubb as we know it today originated in the 1980s when some of the first known Kubb sets were manufactured.

While Kubb might not have the instant name recognition of some other outdoor games, it is still pretty popular. There are numerous tournaments held in America and across Europe every year. If you want to give Kubb a try, let’s take a look at what you need to play.

What You’ll Need To Play

Now to play Kubb, you’ll need a Kubb set. Finding one of these in a shop might be difficult. But the good news is you can find a wide variety of Kubb game sets online. This wooden set from Ropoda is a great example.

There are quite a few different components in a Kubb set. We’ll take about each of them below so you can better see what each does. Don’t let all the different pieces put you off playing, though. Once you know what to do, Kubb is quite a simple game.

Kubbs/ Skittles

The main components of any Kubb set are the Kubbs themselves. They are also known as Skittles to some people. These are the wooden blocks that need to be knocked over. In most Kubb sets, you’ll get 10 of these blocks.

Alongside these ten blocks, you’ll also get one larger Kubb block. This block will have a crown-like head on it and be taller than a regular Kubb. This has, I’m sure you have already guessed, is the King Kubb.

Batons

One of the things that makes Kubb quite distinct is that it’s played with Batons. These small wooden sticks are thrown during the course of the game. You should receive six of these batons with your set.

Pitch Stakes

You should also receive at least four pitch stakes with your Kubb set. Some sets may include more. These are used to mark out the playing field for your game. While these are commonly included, they aren’t always. We strongly recommend finding a set with stakes as it will make playing Kubb much more accessible for beginners.

Kubb Rules and Gameplay

The Aim of The Game

The aim of Kubb is quite simple. The game is played with two players, one on each team. To win, you need to be the first to knock over your opponent’s Kubbs. Then you need to knock over their King Kubb, and you win!

We know it sounds easy, but it’s more challenging than just throwing your batons. If you hit the King before all the other Kubbs have been knocked over, then you’ll be penalized. Kubbs also need to be thrown in a specific way.

The pitch also needs to be set up to a specific size, and things can change each round. Once you know everything, Kubbs is quite a simple game to play and is a great outdoor game for adults and children. So, let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

The Set-Up

The first thing to do is decide on how big your pitch is going to be. When you’re playing at home, you can use your own rules. But there are generally considered to be three different standard pitch sizes. These are as follows:

10 x 8m
10 x 5m
8 x 5m

8 x 5m is the official tournament size but is generally considered unsuitable for new players. Remember, when playing at home, you can relax the size rules and play your own way. So, don’t worry too much, just use them as a guide if you prefer.

Use the pitch stakes to mark your playing field, and then you can get your Kubbs ready. The lines at either end are called baselines. The middle line won’t be marked but will run in the center of the playing field.

Once everything is ready, you should place your King Kubb in the center. Each team will have 5 Kubbs they should put these against their respective baselines. The first round can then start. You can decide which player goes first by flipping a coin or choosing at random.

Round 1

For the first round, you can only throw four batons. Batons need to be thrown vertically in an underarm fashion. They also need to be thrown from behind the opponent player’s baseline. It is doubtful that a player will be able to win in round one. But they should still aim to knock over as many Kubbs as they can.

Subsequent Rounds

From the second round onward, the rules of the game change slightly. First of all, each team will be able to throw six batons instead of just four. But that is just the beginning of the changes. The most crucial difference is the addition of field Kubbs.

Any Kubbs that were knocked over during your opponent’s turn must be collected. You’ll then throw these Kubbs into your opponents half of the court. The throws must be done from your baseline.

Your opponent will then need to place the Kubbs up where they land, and this will create the field Kubbs. These will need to be knocked over on your next turn. However, rather than throwing from your baseline, you’ll be throwing from the new throwing line.

The throwing line is essentially the space from just behind the closest field Kubb. So, when throwing Kubbs, you’ll want to create the ideal throwing line to make the next round easier for yourself. Gameplay follows this loop till one player is in a position to win.

Winning Kubbs

So, how do you win Kubb? Well, first, you need to be able to knock down all the baseline and field Kubbs. Once this is done, if you have any remaining batons, you can aim for the King Kubb.

Any throw at the King must be taken at the baseline and not the throwing line. If the King is knocked over, then you win the game! If the King is knocked over before the other Kubbs, then you will be instantly penalized.

This is either immediately losing your turn or under traditional rules; you instantly lose the game. Ensure all players agree on what this rule will be before starting the game to ensure everything is fair.

Cooperative Play

Traditionally Kubbs is a two-player outdoor yard game. However, for at-home games, you can easily play in groups and take turns when throwing batons. Teams don’t even need to be equal either. So, if you’re looking for a fun outdoor party game, Kubbs is certainly worthing playing.

Kubb – A Splendid Swedish Classic

Kubb is a tremendous outdoor yard game! The rules are simple, and once you get used to the set-up, you should have no problems playing. You’ll need good aim and steady hands just like in darts. But there is also a strategic element to the game as well.

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How to Play Washer Toss Game – Rules and Plans

Murphy MacQuaid — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 04:27:42 +0000

When it comes to outdoor/ garden games, it can seem like your options are endless. There are plenty of sports you can play, but if you want a game everyone can enjoy, Washer Toss would be a fine choice.

Washer Toss goes by many names, including Washer Pitching and Washers. This game’s exact origins aren’t known, but it was likely a variant of other similar outdoor games like Horseshoes.

Washer Toss and Horseshoes do have quite a few similarities. But they aren’t the same game by any means. If you want to give Washer Toss a try, let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

What is Washer Toss?

Washer Toss is a ring toss-style game. Players have to throw washers towards the washer box. The washer box has a smaller cylinder pipe at its center called a cup. Players will score more points if their washer goes into the cup.

But points are also scored for going into the washer box as well. Once players have thrown all their washers, the points are tallied up, and the winner is declared. Washer Toss is a straightforward garden game that you can easily play with family and friends.

The rules are simple, and the game can even be played in several different ways. Players can all shoot towards the same washer box. Or they can have their individual one they must target.

Before we talk about how to play Washer Toss in more detail, let’s take a look at what you need to play the game.

What You’ll Need To Play

To play Washer Toss, you’ll need a game set. This will include washers and the washer box. Now while these are available in shops, they can be hard to find. But thankfully, there are plenty of sets available online.

This wooden Washer Toss set is an excellent example of what you can get. While wooden sets are popular, you can also find sets made from other materials. This plastic Washer Toss set is another great choice.

Most Washer Toss sets will come with washers included. But you can also purchase Washers separately as well. Before we take a look at how you play Washer Toss, let’s take a quick look at how the washers work.

The Washers

Washers are small circular throwing discs. Washers are normally around two to three inches in diameter. They can be made from a range of different materials but are normally metal or plastic.

Washers come in many different colors and designs, which gives you a way to personalize your game. When playing, make sure each player uses different colors/ designs to tell their washers apart.

Washer Toss Rules and Gameplay

The Aim of The Game

The aim of Washer Toss is simple. Players throw their washers and the player who scores the highest wins! There are plenty of house rules when it comes to Washer Toss but the basic gameplay is simple, fast, and fun.

Set Up

To set up the game you should place the washer box on level ground, and each player should stand an equal distance away from it. You can decide the distance yourself but it is usually around 15 – 20 feet.

If you are having trouble judging a fair distance, simply take 10 paces back from the washer box. Younger players will normally stand closer to make the game fairer.

You should also try to ensure the washer box isn’t near potential hazards like windows or pots. Washers, when thrown with enough force, could easily break something or hurt someone. So, make sure there’s enough space to play safely.

Playing Washer Toss

Once everyone is in position, players should decide who will throw first. Every player should have the same number of washers. In traditional games, every player will have 4 washers. But you can have more or less.

Players can take turns throwing their washers one at a time. Or a player can throw all their washers, and then the play will move to the next player. How you decide to throw isn’t important as long as all players follow the same rules.

Any washer that lands in the washer box will score 1 point. While any washer then goes into the cup in the center of the box will score 3 points. Washers that don’t land in the box will score no points.

After every player has thrown their washers, the scores should be tallied. The highest score will win. If two (or more) players have the same score then you can either declare a draw or they can throw again to decide the winner.

House Rules

Washer Toss is a very casual, friendly garden game perfect for family barbecues and parties. While the game can easily be played with its classic traditional ruleset, you can also utilize many other fun house rules to add new twists to the game. We’ve listed some of the more popular house rules you can try below.

Cup Only

With this rule, you will only score points by throwing your washer into the cup. If you are a veteran Washer Toss player, then this can be a fun challenge.

Avoid The Cup

This house rule reverses the core concept of the game. Because landing in the cup will minus a point from your score. This is a fun challenge for players and really flips the game on its head.

First To 21

With this house rule, instead of just throwing 4 (or whatever your set amount is) washers, each player will take turns throwing one washer at a time. The game will continue until one player reaches 21 points. The first player to reach this wins!

Bonus Score

This house rule will add a bonus to your score if you get multiple washers in the cup. For every extra washer you get in the cup, you add an extra 2 points!

Washer Toss – A Wondrous Outdoor Game

Washer Toss offers you everything you could need from an outdoor party game! It’s easy to learn but challenging to master and offers you plenty of room to develop your strategy. Plus, with a great variety of house rules, you can alter the game to create new twists and challenges.

The post How to Play Washer Toss Game – Rules and Plans appeared first on Bar Games 101.

10 Best Bocce Ball Set Reviews (Updated)

Murphy MacQuaid — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 14:23:06 +0000

If you are looking for a fun game to play outdoors, then Bocce could be for you! The game is much like traditional lawn bowling with a few small differences. The main one being the Bocce balls themselves. This is where our 10 best Bocce Ball set reviews can help!

At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Best Bocce Ball Set

Bocce balls can all look the same to the untrained eye. But there are certainly going to be some differences to consider when it comes to choosing a ball set to buy.

We’ve made our top 10 choices based on several different factors, including the ball sets color, material, build-quality, and price. So, without further ado, let’s begin the countdown of our picks:

10 Best Bocce Ball Sets Reviews – Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT
	Our Top Pick Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set Ideal for ages 14 and up 4 green balls and 4 red balls in the set	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	GoSports Bocce Set Ideal for ages 12 and up 8 premium balls (2 Red + 2 Green + 2 Blue + 2 Yellow)	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Triumph Bocce Ball Set Ideal for ages 12 and up Easy to clean	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Draroad Bocce Ball Set 8 100mm balls included with the set Easy to carry	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	ApudArmis Bocce Balls Set Made of premium quality poly-resin material Includes a stylish green zip-up bag	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Play Platoon Beach Bocce Set Perfect For All Ages Includes Measuring Rope	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Japer Bees Bocce Ball Set Made of high grade polyresin Includes a measuring rope, a carrying case and a pallino ball	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rally And Roar Bocce Ball Set Made of premium material includes a high-quality pallino ball and a measuring tape	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Rally And Roar Rubber Bocce Set Made entirely out of rubber Ideal for ages 10 and up	VIEW ON AMAZON →
	Franklin Sports Bocce Ball Set Lightweight and portable Ideal for ages 5 and up	VIEW ON AMAZON →

1. Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set

This amazing Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set would make a great addition to anyone’s gardening game plans! You get 8 balls in the set, 4 red, and 4 green. You also get the pallino ball and a measuring device so they’ll be no trouble finding out who wins a match.

The Bocce balls are 100mm each and made from a high-quality, poly-resin composite. This will give the balls a smooth roll on the grass while ensuring they are strong and damage-resistant. You’ll be able to play with this Bocce ball set year after year without issue.

This ball set also comes with its own sleek carrying case with a removable ball holder. This will ensure transporting these balls from place to place will be quick and easy. This set may have basic in the name, but it ticks all the important boxes and is available for a great bargain price tag.

2. GoSports Bocce Set

This brilliant GoSports Bocce Set offers plenty of colors and will cater up to 8 players. Eight balls are included and you’ll get 2 of each color red, blue, green, and yellow. Balls come in both circle and square cuts as well.

There is plenty of variety with this Bocce Ball Set and each ball is 90mm, making them a little smaller than the average size of 100mm. You can also choose between a hard resin or soft rubber for the ball’s construction as well.

The debate between soft or hard Bocce balls is fiercely debated between players but both have their pros and cons. So, whichever you choose, they’ll be sure to play just fine. Finally, the durable canvas bag will store the balls in perfect order and comes with the always essential pallino ball and measuring rope.

3. Triumph Bocce Ball Set

The first thing you’ll likely notice about the Triumph Bocce Ball Set is the rather unusual color scheme. It uses black and dark red rather than the brighter colors typically used with Bocce balls. So, this certainly helps this set stand out amongst others.

But unusual colors aren’t the only great benefit of this set; the 100mm balls are made from high-quality resin so they’ll be able to roll smoothly across all surfaces. The set also comes with a pallino ball and a quality canvas bag for easy transport.

The Bocce balls are designed to be easy to clean as well, so don’t worry if they get messy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or some wipes and these balls will look brand new again. Stylish with a more unusual color scheme, this Bocce Ball Set is the perfect choice for people who want something a little different.

4. Draroad Bocce Ball Set

No products found.

Bocce is often considered an adult game, but children and families will find it plenty of fun as well. That is what this Draroad Bocce Ball Set is designed for! It’s not the most premium set available, but it certainly has its benefits.

There are 8 100mm balls included with the set and 2 of each color, which includes red, yellow, green, and blue. A pallino ball is also included which means this set can accommodate up to 8 players. Each of the balls has been carefully crafted from molded plastic cement, which makes them a little more lightweight.

This will give them a little more roll across all different terrain and makes them more suitable for children. The set comes with its own plastic mesh case designed for easy transport. If you are looking to play Bocce as a family or just want a budget-friendly option, then this set from Draroad is easy to recommend.

5. ApudArmis Bocce Balls Set

This ApudArmis Bocce Balls Set has a real premium quality to it! 8 balls are included and you’ll get two of each color including red, blue, yellow, and green. Both square and circle-cut balls are included along with a pallino ball and measuring rope.

The 100mm balls are made from a high-quality poly-resin and are designed for long term use. So, if you buy this Bocce ball set it should easily last you a good few years. They are also designed to be waterproof and non-crack as well.

The green zip-up bag is very stylish and stands out amongst the many black bags commonly included with Bocce ball sets. The longer handles make carrying this set much easier, which makes it ideal for beach trips.

6. Play Platoon Beach Bocce Set

Bocce is a popular back garden game, but with this Play Platoon Beach Bocce Set you can play effortlessly on the sands as well! This Bocce ball set is specially designed for the beach, so let’s see what it offers in a bit more detail.

There are 8 balls included and you’ll get 2 of each color which includes red, yellow, blue, and green. They are made from impact-resistant resin and feature a durable rubber core. The balls are slightly smaller at just 84mm which makes them ideal for beach playing.

But these Bocce balls can still be used on other terrains like grass without issue. You’ll also get a pallino ball and measuring rope. This all comes with a gym-style canvas bag for easy, simple, and quick transport. Perfect for a playing Bocce down at the beach, this set is perfect for children, adults, and families.

7. Japer Bees Bocce Ball Set

If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, then this Japer Bees Bocce Ball Set is perfect for your needs! It features 8 balls and the high gloss design is sure to be very eye-catching. The set features red and green colors and 4 of the balls have a stripe design to help differentiate them.

The balls are made from high-quality poly-resin and are designed for higher levels of durability and greater balance. This makes them an excellent choice for more experienced or veteran players of Bocce. A measuring rope and pallino ball are also included as well.

Finally, let’s talk about the impressive canvas carry case! The white color is stylish and fashionable but also very high-quality and strong. There is also a built-in divider to help ensure the balls are held securely during transit.

8. Rally And Roar Bocce Ball Set

This stylish Rally And Roar Bocce Ball Set features 8 balls in the classic colors of red, blue, green, and yellow. The balls are sized at 90mm, making them a little smaller than the average size, so if you are planning to play Bocce with children, these make a good choice.

The set also includes a high-quality pallino ball and a measuring tape. A measuring tape will usually be a little easier to read accurately than rope so it could be the better option for more professional, experienced players.

The set also comes with its own compact canvas bag that will make moving the balls easy! The bag is also water-resistant which makes it a great choice for trips to the beach. A great all-rounder this Bocce set is ideal for beginners to the game and veteran players alike.

9. Rally And Roar Rubber Bocce Set

This Rally And Roar Rubber Bocce Set offers something very unique. In all the sets on this list, this is the only one that can safely be played indoors without the risk of causing damage. This set which features 8 84mm balls is made entirely out of rubber!

They are filled with sand to add some weight and while this softer design means they can be played indoors safely, but they can also be used outdoors as well. This Bocce set is designed for family play and comes with a pallino ball and measuring tape.

Everything comes packed in a small canvas bag for safe storage and easy transport as well. While it’s ideal for children and families, this Bocce ball set could also make a great choice to introduce someone to the game with as well.

10. Franklin Sports Bocce Ball Set

If you are looking to play Bocce for the first time, then this Franklin Sports Bocce Ball Set is easy to recommend. The budget-friendly price tag makes it ideal for families, children, and anyone else who wants to give this classic garden game a go!

You get 8 90mm balls in the set and all the popular colors are included: blue, green, red, and yellow. The balls are designed to be extra-sturdy and feature waterproofing, so whether it’s rain or shine, you can play Bocce with this set.

The pallino ball is included and the roomy carry case helps spread the weight to make it easier to transport the balls from place to place. If you are looking for a high-quality budget-friendly option, then this ball set is easy to recommend.

Best Bocce Ball Set Buyers Guide

So, that completes our look at 10 of the best Bocce Ball Sets. This classic game can be fun for the whole family, it’s easy to learn but difficult to master, which makes it the perfect outdoor activity. But before we decide what the best Bocce set is, let’s take a look at what you need to consider before making a purchase.

What’s Your Budget?

The first thing to decide is how much you want to spend. Some Bocce ball sets are quite budget-friendly while others are more luxurious and, therefore, more expensive.

If you are new to Bocce, then opting for a cheaper option like the Franklin Sports Bocce Ball Set could be the better option. But if you want something a little more luxurious, the Japer Bees Bocce Ball Set is a good choice.

Casual or Experienced?

You also need to think carefully about the experience/ skill of the people you’re going to be playing with. If you are looking for a set to play with your children or complete beginners then the Rally And Roar Rubber Bocce Set or the Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set could be your best option.

However, if you are playing with more experienced players, then opting for the ApudArmis Bocce Balls Set or the GoSports Bocce Set is likely to be the better choice.

What’s the Best Bocce Ball Set To Buy?

So, what is the best Bocce Ball set to buy? Well like always, it will really all depend on your own individual needs, a great all-rounder though would have to be the Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set or the GoSports Bocce Set. Both offer everything you need, whether you’re a newbie or a veteran player.

The post 10 Best Bocce Ball Set Reviews (Updated) appeared first on Bar Games 101.

Polish Horseshoes: How to Play and What You’ll Need

Murphy MacQuaid — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 15:06:04 +0000

Also known as Beersbee, the game of Polish Horseshoes is perfect for barbeques, days at the beach, campgrounds and more.

It’s a fun drinking game to play outside, but families can enjoy this one too.

The objective of the game is to throw a frisbee at a bottle that is resting on top of a pole.

The other team tries to catch the frisbee and/or bottle to prevent you from scoring points.

But there is a little more to it than that.

This guide will teach you how to play polish horseshoes, including setup instructions, game rules and additional tips.

Looking for traditional horseshoes? Check out this guide.

Setting Up Polish Horseshoes

Polish horseshoes is simple to set up. For a DIY version, all you really need is two poles, a frisbee and a couple beer bottles or cans.

But if you want to play frequently and take your set to different venues (i.e. the beach, pool, backyard, etc), it may be worth investing in a ready-made polish horseshoes set.

Let’s take a look at both options.

DIY Polish Horseshoes Setup

Yardies Polish Horseshoes (Beersbee), Red (OG001NS1)

Buy Now on Amazon Affiliate link / commissions earned (read disclosure)

Poles

For a proper DIY version of polish horseshoes, you’ll need two poles about 6 feet tall.

Some players use shorter poles, but we prefer at least 6 feet or higher.

A taller pole makes for better throws and gives the defense more time to catch the bottle when it’s knocked off.

Set the poles in the ground about 20 to 40 feet apart.

If you’re playing at a beach or campground with a soft surface, you’ll want the pole to have an angled or pointed end so you can stake them into the ground.

To make your poles more stable, one common method is to use wooden dowels, about a foot high, with pointed ends.

Dig each dowel firmly into the ground and then fit your PVC pipes over them.

Dig the PVC poles about 1 – 2 inches into the ground.

The top of the PVC pipe or other hollow pole should be covered with tape to create a flat and stable platform to set your beer bottle on.

If you’re playing the game of polish horseshoes on a hard surface, either inside or outside, you will need to create a base to hold the poles.

This is when a polish horseshoes or beersbee set comes in handy (more on this below).

You Might Also Like: The Ultimate Guide to Ladder Toss

The Frisbee

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You can use any size frisbee disc to play Polish Horseshoes.

I prefer using a regulation size 175G frisbee.

a quality regulation size disc makes it easier to throw the disc within a catchable range.

It’s also easier for the defense to catch, which makes the game more fun for everyone.

Beer Bottles or Cans

Finally, you need an empty bottle or can to place on top of each pole.

Keep in mind that if you’re playing on a hard surface, you probably don’t want to use empty glass bottles.

Why Use a Polish Horseshoes Set

Yardies Polish Horseshoes (Beersbee), Red (OG001NS1)

The advantage of using a Polish Horseshoes set, such as the one offered by Yardies, is that it is easily portable, perfect for indoors and designed specifically for the game of Polish Horseshoes.

For example, the Yardies Polish Horseshoes set comes with the following:

Steel bases wrapped in a multi terrain enamel
Poles that can be broken down to be stored in the carrying case
Impact resistant bottles that float in water
Rubber tops to protect the poles during pavement play
175 gram official ultimate Frisbee
Wingman carrying case that holds your game set and has a cooler compartment.
Instructions on how to play and how to keep score.

How to Play Polish Horseshoes

The basic goal of Polish horseshoes is to throw a frisbee at a bottle that is resting on top of a pole.

Very simple in concept.

You can either strike the bottle directly and knock it to the ground, or strike the pole so the bottle falls off.

Each player on a side alternates throws while the other side plays defense by trying to catch the frisbee and keeping the bottle from hitting the ground.

After two throws, the defense becomes the offense and take their two throws.

Scoring

Only the offense can score in polish horseshoes.

The defense tries to prevent them from scoring.

Here’s how scoring works:

If the thrower hits the pole and knocks off the bottle, and:

Defense misses both the bottle and the disc = 2 points for the offense
Defense catches either the bottle or the disc = 1 point for the offense
Defense catches both bottle and the disc = 0 points for throwing team

If the thrower hits the bottle, knocking it off the pole, and:

Defense misses the bottle and the disc = 3 points for the offense
Defense catches eithert the bottle or the disc = 2 points for the offense
Defense catches both bottle and the disc = 1 point for the offense

If the defense does not catch the frisbee on a catchable throw, the offense gets 1 point.

First team to reach 11 or 21 points, depending on what you’re playing to, wins the game.

The Rules of Polish Horseshoes

Bottle Bash Outdoor Flying Disc Game Set – Disc Toss Game for Family, Adult & Kids, Backyard and Beach Game - Frisbee Target Lawn Game with Poles & Bottles (Beersbee & Polish Horseshoes)

In addition to the the scoring rules, here are some other guidelines that to know about when playing a game of beersbee:

All players must have a drink in one hand at all times. This does not need to be an alcoholic drink. Any beverage will do.
Frisbee throws must be “Catchable”. Generally this means that the thrower should not intentionally make the frisbee hard to catch. So, the Frisbee can’t be thrown lower than knee height. The throw should not be too high or too far out of a catchable radius. It cannot hit the ground before the pole. If a throw is not catchable, no points will be awarded.
No Interference. Players cannot interfere with a throw by catching the frisbee in front of the pole or blocking the pole in any way. If you are called for interference, 3 points will go to the throwing team

Drinking Game Rules

If you are playing polish horseshoes as a drinking game with alcohol, there are a few additional specific rules that apply:

Defense takes one drink if they miss a catchable throw
Defense takes three drinks if the bottle hits the ground
Offense takes a drink for an uncatchable throw
Any player takes a drink if they spill their drink at any time – including diving
Drink if at any time you do not have a drink in one hand
Losing team must finish the drinks they are holding

Again, the drinking aspect of polish horseshoes is optional.

And that’s it. Polish Horseshoes is a fun and challenging yard game.

While not technically a ‘bar game’, Polish Horseshoes is a fun and physical game that you can take to the beach, base of a ski mountain (try using ski poles), your local park, or anywhere else where you have the space and the right equipment.

If you want a stable and sturdy set of Polish Horseshoes to take anywhere, we recommend the Yardies kit.

But there are several other versions out there as well.

Or, as mentioned, it’s pretty easy to grab a couple poles and make your own set.

Have fun!

The post Polish Horseshoes: How to Play and What You’ll Need appeared first on Bar Games 101.

10 Best Outdoor Games for Adults

Murphy MacQuaid — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 23:27:41 +0000

The sun is shining, the kids are away at summer camp and you’ve got the whole weekend to yourself. So what better way to pass the time than breaking out some of your favorite backyard games for adults and inviting your friends over for a few games, a few laughs and, of course, a few cold ones?

Can’t decide what to play? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we offer our pick of the ten very best outdoor games suitable for adults, each one adding something different to your next summer BBQ, tailgate party, or family get-together.

Top 10 Best Backyard Games for Adults


1.	Bottle Bash
2.	Croquet
3.	Spikeball
4.	Bow and Arrow
5.	Cornh o le
6.	Ladderball
7.	KanJam
8.	Hook and Ring
9.	Bocce Ball
10.	Horseshoes

1. Bottle Bash

Sometimes known as Polish Horseshoes, Beersbee, or Poles, Bottle Bash goes straight to the top of our list because it combines everything we look for in a good outdoor game and then some.

First of all, there’s simplicity. Bottle Bash is such a breeze to set up and play that you could easily get a game underway in a couple of minutes.

Simply place two poles into the ground either 20, 30, or 40ft apart and place a bottle on top of each pole.

Next, divide into teams and take turns at throwing a flying disc at your opponent’s bottle and knock it off the pole. As the defending team, your job is to catch both disc and bottle before they hit the ground.

Then there’s the game set itself.

If the idea of knocking bottles around seems a little dangerous, there’s no need to worry. With the official Bottle Bash Standard Outdoor Game Set, you get a couple of unbreakable bottles, plus the poles and flying discs, all of which are not only super durable but really well-designed, adding a cool look to your summer bbq, garden party, or day at the beach.

Finally, there’s the most important factor of all:

Enjoyment.

One of the most entertaining games we’ve played in a long while, Bottle Bash is best suited for four or more players divided into teams, making it a great game to break out any time you get together with a bunch of friends.

Overall, a simple yet incredibly enjoyable yard game with well-built equipment that’s sure to provide you with hours of fun for years to come.

2. Croquet

If you prefer something slightly less taxing than the high-energy hijinks of Bottle Bash, you might find the classic game of Croquet more your speed.

Though it may suffer from a reputation as being the exclusive reserve of the elite and well-to-do, this ancient game of skill and strategy has proven to be a hit at picnics and garden parties across the United States.

Over time, it’s begun to develop a brand new reputation as one of the best backyard games for adults who prefer much more relaxing get-togethers with games that focus more on wits and ingenuity than speed and adrenaline.

Buying a good quality croquet set (complete with mallets, balls, stakes, and wickets) means you’ve got everything you need to play one of the many different versions of the game that have developed over the years, each one offering its own unique and entertaining challenges.

That said, we prefer the version known as Six Wicket American Croquet, partly because it’s the one most of our friends in the US are familiar with, but mostly because it’s genuinely the most fun.

3. Spikeball

Fast, frantic, and fantastically fun, spikeball is a high-octane team game that’s guaranteed to get your blood pumping and your adrenaline flowing.

To play, place the spikeball net in the middle of a large playing area and divide into two teams. The first team serves the ball by spiking it into the net so that it bounces out and towards the other team.

From then on, both teams battle it out to score points, with each team allowed to touch the ball no more than 3 times before it touches the net again and bounces out to the other players.

Unlike some outdoor games, there are no boundaries or limitations in spikeball.

Players are allowed to go wherever they need to go to stop that ball from hitting the ground, so expect plenty of running around and maybe the occasional Superman-like dive if you’re going to emerge victoriously.

If you were planning to relax and take it easy, Spikeball may not be the game for you, but if you’re looking for a great way to stay active this summer, this is definitely a great game to consider.

4. Bow and Arrow

What’s not to love about archery? An ancient sport with a thoroughly modern set-up, this timeless target game takes minutes to learn but a lifetime to master.

If you’re looking for a great summer alternative to being stuck inside playing darts, then you’ll love breaking out the bow and arrows and pitting your wits in an invigorating game that, much like your favorite darts games, requires a steady hand and an eye for accuracy.

The best part is that you don’t have to be a master bowsman to enjoy archery. Beginner-level bow and arrow sets are specifically designed to help you get to grips with the basics in no time.

5. Cornhole

Ah Cornhole, an American summertime institution up there with baseball, July 4th fireworks, and hot dogs.

Like horseshoes and other classic backyard games, Cornhole has long been a staple at picnics, parties, and family get-togethers, often proving popular thanks to its simple set up and straight forward rules.

Cornhole boards like the ones in this classic set from GoSports take less than a minute to set up, while the rules make it so easy to play that you could still be in with a fair chance of scoring some points even if you’d already downed a few beers before the game began.

Don’t believe us? Check out our step-by-step guide to playing Cornhole to discover all the fun of this great American classic for yourself.

6. Ladderball

Sometimes known as ladder toss or ladder golf, ladderball is a relatively new outdoor game that’s great for those chilled out gatherings when you’re looking for a relaxing way to while away the afternoon.

The aim is to throw your trusty bolos (two golfball-like balls connected by a short piece of rope) onto the rungs of the specially designed ladderball ladder. The higher the rung, the more points you pick up.

It sounds easy, but there’s a real skill involved in consistently landing those higher rungs, making it a great game for all abilities.

To get your game started, you’ll need a quality ladderball set like this one from GoSports, but if that doesn’t float your boat, check out some top alternatives in our guide to the top 10 best ladderball sets.

7. KanJam

If you liked the disc-throwing aspect of our top-ranked game, Bottle Bash, but found the targets just a little too small for your liking, you might find a lot to love about KanJam.

By far one of our favorite backyard games for adults to have come along in the last couple of years, KanJam involves dividing into teams, with each team striving to get that flying disc into the can-like goal more times than your opponents.

It’s exciting, competitive, and comes with several cool twists and variations to keep things interesting.

Though you can technically play a version of the game using any old frisbee and a couple of garbage cans, we prefer to use an official KanJam set to enjoy the game the way it was meant to be played.

Need to brush up on the rules before you get started? See our beginner’s guide to playing KanJam.

8. Hook and Ring

Some call it Tiki Toss, others prefer the name Ring Toss, while others still know this traditional British pub favorite as Ringing the Bull. Yet if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that it really is as simple as it sounds:

Throw your rings over a hook mounted to the wall and the player who successfully gets the most rings over said hook is declared the victor.

As basic as it sounds, there’s no denying that Hook and Ring can quickly get addictive, and you’ll find yourself heading back to the hook to practice even after everyone else at the party has gone home.

9. Bocce Ball

Over the past couple of years, bocce ball has enjoyed a surge in popularity as an indoor bar game, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t every bit as enjoyable outdoors as it ever was.

A standard outdoor bocce ball game set comes with a small, white ball known as a pallino and a set of eight balls, with four balls for each team.

The goal is to get your team’s balls as close to the pallino as possible, and if that means you have to knock your opponent’s balls out of the way to do so, then hey, so be it.

This straightforward strategy gives bocce ball an enjoyable competitive edge that you might easily overlook if your only experience with the game is watching a few old folks leisurely roll the balls on a bocce ball court.

Speaking of which…

Official bocce ball rules dictate that the game should be played on a standard court, though if you’ve only got a modest amount of space in your backyard, that will work just as well for a quick game with friends on a sunny afternoon.

10. Horseshoes

And finally, no guide to the best outdoor games for adults could ever be complete without mentioning the traditional game of horseshoes.

This all-time classic dates way back to the 1800s, if not earlier, drawing influence from the popular Victorian pastime of quoits.

Despite being over a century old, horseshoes remain as widely-played today as ever was, with best-selling horseshoes sets popping up at picnics, tailgating parties, family reunions, and just about every kind of outdoor gathering you can think of.

If you loved the other throwing games on this list such as Cornhole and Hook and Ring, you’ll love horseshoes, a game that’s perfect for players of all abilities.

Since all you have to do is throw your horseshoes at the two stakes, beginners can pick the game up in minutes, while more experienced players will have hours of fun trying to outdo each other’s highest score.

For a breakdown of the rules, see our complete guide to playing horseshoes, or check out our DIY instructions for building your own horseshoes pit.

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Game for Adults to Play

If our list of the ten best adult-friendly backyard games has left you feeling a little spoiled for choice, there’s a quick and easy way to determine which one is best suited for your next outdoor gathering.

If you can’t make your mind up between Bocce Ball or Bottle Bash, KanJam or Cornhole, simply ask yourself the following key questions:

What Kind of Get-Together are You Planning?

Is it going to be a lively, vibrant affair with friends who like to stay active, run around, and work up a sweat? If so, you’re going to want an exciting, fast-paced game like Bottle Bash or Spikeball.

If it’s a chilled out afternoon where the games should be fun without requiring too much energy, a more relaxing game like Bocce Ball may be more your speed.

How Much Space do You Have?

Are you heading to the beach or a park with lots of wide-open space? In that case, you’ll have plenty of room to set up a game such as KanJam.

Are you sticking to your backyard? Ladderball and Cornhole can still be enjoyed even if you have limited space.

How Much of a Challenge do You Want?

Setting up a game of Bow and Arrows can be a great way for skilled players to while away the afternoon, but for absolute novices, it can prove to be so much of a challenge that playing it is more frustrating than enjoyable.

Meanwhile, a simple game like Hook and Ring can be lots of fun for beginners, but leave more experienced players craving something a little more testing.

In other words, think about who you’ll be playing with, and adapt accordingly.

Other Enjoyable Backyard Games to Try Out

If none of the games we’ve featured in this guide quite do it for you, don’t worry, there are lots of alternatives.

If you enjoyed the throwing aspect of games such as horseshoes and cornhole, you should enjoy the unique game of Mölkky, a skittles-like game that is quickly becoming a hit across the United States.

Need something a little more exciting to really get the blood pumping? You could do far worse than a good old fashioned game of Tetherball.

And if neither of those are quite right either, check out our guide to the best oversized outdoor games such as Giant Jenga and Giant Connect four, games which provide all the fun of the indoor classics with the added hilarity of the huge game pieces, making them the perfect choice for your next grown-up gathering.

The post 10 Best Outdoor Games for Adults appeared first on Bar Games 101.

Best Ladder Ball Set: Read Our 2023 Buyers Guide

Murphy MacQuaid — Fri, 08 May 2020 01:25:24 +0000

Summer is here again, bringing with it beautiful weather, longer days, and plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy some traditional yard games.

Yet let’s face it:

The kids have played horseshoes so many times it’s simply not fun anymore, and your adult friends are wary of even visiting you over the summer lest you suggest another game of cornhole for the millionth time.

What you need is something different. What you need is one of the best ladder ball sets you can set up in your garden to keep both kids and grown-ups alike entertained for hours.

Below, we’ll offer our pick of the five top sets suitable for all ages, as well as offering our comprehensive ladder ball set buyers guide to help you determine which one is best suited to your needs.

What is Ladder Ball?

Also known as ladder golf, ladder toss, or even ball rope, ladder ball is a fun game in which two teams take turns to score points by throwing a bola (a set of two golf-ball-like balls connected by a short nylon rope)onto a target frame designed like a ladder.

Like a ladder, each frame has three rungs or tiers. The top tier is worth three points, the second is worth two points, and the bottom tier scores players one point.

The first team to score exactly 21 points wins the game.

If you’re completely brand new to the game, you’ll find everything you need to know in our Ultimate Guide to Ladder Toss.

For now, though, let’s dive into our pick of the five best sets you can buy this year

Top 5 Best Ladder Ball Sets

	Product	Ladder Material	Bolas Material
1.	EastPoint Sports Go! Ladder Ball Set	Steel	Soft rubber (weighted)
2.	Rally and Roar Ladder Toss Set	PVC	Soft rubber
3.	Viva Sol Premium Outdoor Ladderball Set	Wood	Hard Plastic
4.	Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set	Steel	Soft Rubber
5.	AmazonBasics Ladder Toss Set	PVC	Hard Plastic

1. EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Ladder Ball Set

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EastPoint Sports Go! Premium Ladder Ball Set

As you’ll see in our ladder ball buyer’s guide later in this article, there are two key things we looked for when determining the best sets:

The material used to build the target ladders
The material used for the bolas.

Ideally, the ladder should be tough and sturdy enough to withstand game after game for years to come, while the bola material should be solid enough to ensure satisfying play yet not so hard that a rogue bola could cause an injury.

This double ladder ball game set from EastPoint Sports offers the best of both worlds, making it hands down the best of the bunch.

The steel construction of the target frames offers exceptional durability without being excessively heavy, making it easy to set up, pack down, and carry around. To make this even easier, the legs fold up and latch together, like an actual ladder. The frames also have a built in sliding scorer

As for the bolas, the game comes with the standard six sets (three per team) which are the same weight as golf balls to ensure a quality playing experience. Unlike golf balls, however, they’re made from a soft, rubber coating and filled with sand.

This makes them a safer option for families with young children. Indeed, while most ladder golf sets are aimed at ages eight and above (or even older in some cases), this is one of the few high-quality sets suitable for ages four and up.

Note: Because this one is made of steel, you need to check the assembly to make sure everything lines up correctly. While it’s normally not an issue and you’ll find that the frame is nice and sturdy, some buyers received frames with misaligned holes. Check right away to make sure.

2. Rally and Roar Premium Ladder Toss Set

Rally and Roar Premium Ladder Toss Set

Well known for their foosball tables, dartboards, and tabletop pool sets, Rally and Roar have built their reputation by creating premium quality versions of many game room classics.

Thankfully for us, they’ve taken that same quality outdoors to come up with this excellent PVC ladder golf set with sand bases, six bolas, and a stylish blue-and-orange carry case.

While PVC sets tend to be at the lower end of the price scale, this is one instance where cheap price doesn’t mean cheap quality.

The PVC pipes that make up the target ladders are of a solid thickness to ensure it can hold its own even after lots of heavy use. What’s more, most of the parts come pre-assembled, so it shouldn’t take you more than five minutes to set up and start playing.

As a company that specializes in making games for adults, it doesn’t come as a shock to see Rally and Roar pitching this for tailgate parties and other grown-up occasions, but the soft-yet-firm rubber balls make it just as suitable for older kids.

3. Viva Sol Premium Outdoor Ladderball Set

Viva Sol Premium Outdoor Ladderball Game

Though most of the sets on this list are designed for families, this premium wooden ladder golf set from Viva Sol has a decidedly grown-up feel about it.

A great choice for anyone who wants to offer something other than the standard beer pong at your next party, the attractive wooden ladders come with their own built-in bottle opener so that you can crack open a cold one while you’re waiting for your turn to throw.

That’s a nice little gimmick, sure, but this set is no novelty. Those solid, hardwood frames are complemented by sturdy steel bars to withstand endless hours of even the most enthusiastic gameplay, while the frames’ smooth, furniture-grade walnut finish make them a stylish addition to any garden party.

Elsewhere, the bolas are made from hard, golf-ball-like plastic, another reason why this is a better option for playing ladder golf with your buddies rather than your kids.

4. Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set

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Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set

Honestly, the only reason the Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set didn’t rank higher on our list is the cost. Though steel and metal sets are generally always more expensive than their PVC counterparts), this is definitely one of the pricier versions out there.

Still, that alone shouldn’t be enough to rule out what is otherwise an excellent offering from the Triumph All Pro Series.

The all-metal target frames are some of the strongest we’ve ever come across, built to stand tall and unwavering even after years of serious play. Yet even that isn’t the best part about the ladders themselves. No, the best part is the unique, hardware-free assembly,

An ideal option for families with infants and small children, there are no screws or small parts to lose with this one. The whole kit slots together in seconds and uses pressure-fit joints to keep everything in place.

Speaking of all things child-friendly, the six bolas are finished in a soft rubber for safe play yet still pack substantial weight to ensure top quality play.

5. AmazonBasics Ladder Toss Set

AmazonBasics Ladder Toss Set

The AmazonBasics brand has made great inroads into the outdoor games market over the last few years, offering affordable, family-friendly versions of popular past-times like ring toss and Bocce.

So it’s no surprise to see them come out with a ladder ball set that is not only built to last but designed to offer hours of fun for the whole family.

The set comes with three red bolas and three blue ones, making it just as ideal for one-on-one games as it is for teams of up to three players each.

The highlight, however, comes in the form of the two target ladders. Despite being incredibly lightweight, the PVC pipes are incredibly sturdy and can withstand a fair bit of force when you throw the bolas.

The pipes slot together easily using the connected joints, and then be quickly taken down and stored in the helpful carry case.

The only downside to this one is that while the PVC targets make it a great choice for families with young children, the hard-plastic bolas do not. As hard as actual golf balls, the bolas in this set can hurt if they’re not used properly, so young families should take extra care when playing.

Otherwise, this is a great low-budget, entry-level set that will offer plenty of entertainment for many a summer.

Ladder Ball 2023 Buyer’s Guide:

You’ve seen our pick of the best five ladder ball sets currently available, but how exactly did we determine which sets made the cut?

More importantly, how can you decide which set is right for you?

The answer to both of those questions lies in the materials that each ladder ball set is made of.

Sure, your budget will naturally play a part as it does with just about every purchasing decision you make, but really it all comes down to how you’ll be using your set and who you’ll be playing it with as each option is generally best suited to a specific environment and audience.

Let’s consider each one in turn:

Ladder Material

Wooden Ladders

Wooden Ladder Ball Set, available on Amazon (affiliate link)

Personally, we love a good wooden ladder golf set. There’s something about the smooth finish and the way they’re constructed that lends them an appealing, traditional look.

Having said that, this certainly isn’t a case of style over substance.

The best thing about wooden ladders is that they’re built to last and offer a higher level of stability and long-term durability than any other type.

In our estimation, this combination of gorgeous aesthetic appeal and unbeatable resilience makes them a great choice for adults.

Unlike other types, they don’t look like a child’s toy, so there’s no chance of them looking out of place when you have your friends round for a summer afternoon of beers, barbecue, and brilliant gaming fun. What’s more, the sturdy design makes them well equipped to handle the kind of vigorous play you tend to get with adults.

The only drawback with wooden ladders is, of course, the cost. As the most expensive of all three varieties, they may not be the best option if you’re only looking for a cheap game to while away the summer.

Metal Ladders

Offering a great compromise between the high price tag of wood ladders and the lack of strength that you get with cheaper PVC options, metal ladders are usually made from lightweight metal tubes that are properly treated to prevent rust.

They tend to be the easiest to assemble which makes them a great choice if you’re looking for something you can set up quickly and get playing with minimal fuss and, given their affordability, make a great choice for families.

PVC ladders

Last but by no means least, PVC ladder golf sets are the most affordable of the three.

They usually cost significantly less than the top-end wooden varieties, but also offer much less strength and durability too.

However, that may not necessarily be a bad thing.

With their lightweight design and relative lack of resilience, everything that makes them a poor fit for eager, heavy-handed adult players makes them ideal for families with young children.

Bolas Materials

The quality of the ladder targets may be the most important factor, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook the quality of the bolas when deciding on which ladder ball set to buy.

Hard Plastic Bolas

If you’re wondering why ladder ball is sometimes called ladder golf, it’s because the bolas are literally made to look just like actual golf balls and use the same hard plastic materials.

This hard and heavy design allows for better aerodynamics and means you can throw faster and with greater accuracy, making them a good choice for more competitive games. This is perhaps the reason why the official ladder golf rules and regulations stipulate that these are the kind of bolas required for official competitions.

However, as anyone who’s ever accidentally been struck by a golf call can tell you, those things can seriously hurt!

So, if you’re playing with young children, you might want to give them a wide berth to prevent the risk of injuries and nasty bruises.

Soft Rubber Bolas

The good news is that not being able to use the harder bolas doesn’t mean you and your young ones can’t play. One of the reasons why we chose three of our top-five picks is that they used soft bolas.

These tend to be either all-rubber or rubber casing filled with sand to give them the same kind of weight and aerodynamic properties as the harder golf ball variety. Either way, both options are much safer for playing ladder ball with young children.

How to Choose the Best Set for You

To sum up, then, choosing the best ladder ball set is all just a question of whether you’re looking forward to enjoying quality outdoor time with your young family, or whether you’re looking to provide some unique entertainment the next time your friends come over for your big summer get-together.

If it’s a fun-filled family afternoon that you have in mind, then the soft-rubber bolas included in either our number-one ranked EastPoint Go! or our second-placed Rally and Roar Ladder Toss Set will work perfectly.

Between the two, the key difference is that the EastPoint steel set offers a little added durability so that mom and dad can play too without worrying about knocking the whole thing over.

If, on the other hand, you’re looking for something different for your friends to play the next time they come over to hang out, then the gorgeous oak finish and exceptional durability of the Viva Sol Premium Outdoor Ladderball Set will certainly prove to be a big hit.

The post Best Ladder Ball Set: Read Our 2023 Buyers Guide appeared first on Bar Games 101.

How to Play Mölkky? The Finnish Throwing Game

Murphy MacQuaid — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 18:43:37 +0000

Since it first made its way from Europe to the United States, the Finnish game of Mölkky has gradually grown from a niche curiosity to one of the best-selling lawn games in the country, proving a hit with kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re fed up of playing cornhole for the millionth time and looking for something different to play at your next summer barbeque, or whether you’re just trying to find out why so many people seem to be going Molkky-mad this summer, here’s everything you need to know about how to play Molkky, this ever-popular outdoor game.

What You’ll Need

Like most yard games, the great thing about Mölkky is that you don’t need much to get started. In fact, all you need is a set of pins and something to create your throwing line.

The Pins

A standard Mölkky set contains twelve wooden pins that should be of at least similar -if not identical- dimensions, as well as one larger pin known as the molkky. Each pin features a different number from 1 – 12 on its top surface.

Though it’s possible to make your own, it’s far easier to buy one online or from your local toy and game store.

The Throwing Line

In official competitions, players stand behind what’s known as the mölkkaari. This is a simple piece of equipment made from four interconnected blocks of wood which mark out the throwing area.

Again, this can be bought from the same place as your Molkky kit, but it isn’t actually necessary. You can simply create your own throwing line using anything from a piece of wood to rope, string, or even the kind of spray paints they use to mark lines on sports fields.

Setting Up Your Game

To set up your game, you first need to arrange your pins in a specific formation as outlined by the game’s rules. This formation isn’t too dissimilar to that used in bowling, with the number of pins featured in each row increasing from top to bottom. However, unlike bowling, the bottom row starts with two pins and the top row features three.

Remember we said that each pin has a number? When you’re setting up your formation, each row should always feature the same numbered pins, as follows:

Row 1: 1,2

Row 2: 3,10,4

Row 3: 5,11,12,6

Row 4: 7,9,8.

Another way to think of the formation is this:

Starting with the number 2 pin on the bottom row, all the even-numbered pins go in ascending order around the right-hand side of the formation, and all the odd-numbered pins go around the left-hand side from 1 – 7 with the remaining numbers (9-12) in the middle.

Where to Set Your Throwing Line

If you were playing in an official Mölkky competition, then your mölkkaari would be set exactly 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) from the pins, but if all you’re trying to do is have a little fun with friends at your summer BBQ, then there’s no need to waste time with exact measurements.

A distance of roughly 12 feet is good enough.

With that, it’s time to let the game begin.

The Rules

At first glance, the rules can seem a little complicated, especially when compared to simple games like horseshoes that you’re already well familiar with.

Spend a little time with them, however, and those rules won’t take long to master.

Though it’s possible to enjoy a game with just two players, Molkky is often more fun if you get your friends involved and divide up in two teams.

After deciding who goes first, players from each team take turns to try and knock over the pins by throwing the main molkky pin at them. While the game is commonly played with underhand throws (like in a game of Kubb), there are no official rules with regards to throwing styles.

If you prefer to pitch the throwing pin like a baseball or launch it like a shot put, there’s nothing to stop you.

If a player knocks down one or more pins, their score is counted (more of which in a moment), and those pins are then stood back up wherever they fell. In other words, you don’t return them to their original formation. As you can imagine, this makes it more challenging the longer the game goes on.

If a player fails to knock any pins down at all after three attempts, then they’re eliminated from the game altogether. The game ends with the winner being the first person (or team) to reach exactly 50 points.

If all players are eliminated, then the last person still in the game is declared the winner.

How Scoring Works in Molkky?

Here’s where things do get a little complicated.

There are two ways to score points in this game.

1. Knock down one pin.

The number written on the top of that pin is your score for that round. So, for example, if you knock down a pin that has the number ’10’ written on it, you get ten points.

2. Knock down several pins

If you topple two or more pins, then rather than adding up all the numbers written on them, you simply get one point for each pin. So, for example, you’d get two points for knocking down two pins, three points for three pins, and so on.

Remember, the aim of the game is to be the first to reach exactly 50 points. Score anything over 50, and you’re penalized by having your score knocked back down to 25.

Naturally, this all contributes to the fun and challenge of the game. Imagine, having clocked up 45 points for your team, putting all of your skills to the test to knock down just the one single Number Five pin, or the triumph of managing to knock down exactly five pins.

Or how about the heartbreak of being just one pin shy of 50 but accidentally knocking two pins over. There you were, so close to victory but now, as a result of scoring 51, you’re knocked back down to 25.

What Constitutes a Knocked-Over Pin?

The rules of Mölkky are pretty strict when it comes to what does -and doesn’t- constitute a knocked down pin.

For a pin to count towards your score, it has to have been knocked completely to the ground. If it was knocked off balance but is resting against another pin (including the throwing pin) or a natural element of your surroundings (such as a tree or plant), then that doesn’t count.

However, if you knock it and it rests against something man-made such as the bottom of a garden chair or a garden border, then that can count as a point.

Of course, if you’re only playing for fun, then you might decide not to be so strict when it comes to enforcing that rule. If that’s the case, you’ll find it better to ensure everyone agrees about what you’ll class as a fallen pin before you start playing as that could affect the scores.

Worse yet, what started as a light-hearted day of yard games could soon descend into an argument if there’s any disagreement or uncertainty.

Playing Mölkky in Rounds

Though you can, of course, play a single round in which the first person who scores 50 points is the ultimate winner, most Mölkky games are usually in a best-two-out-of-three rounds situation.

After deciding who starts the first round (usually via coin toss), the winner of that round gets to throw first in the second round, and the winner of that round will throw first in the third round.

How to Determine the Winner in the Event of a Draw

Though they may be rare, an even-draw can occur in a competitive game of Mölkky between talented players.

When it does, the first solution is for each team to total up the points they scored across the rounds, with the person or team who scores the most being declared the winner. If both teams score the exact same number of points, then a tie-breaker round known as a mölkkout is played.

In this situation, all of the even-numbered pins are laid out in the following order with the length of the length of the mölkky pin between each one.

6,4,12,10,8

For teams of one or two players, each player is required to throw the mölkky pin twice. For teams of two or more players, each player gets one throw each.

The same rules for scoring the game apply as in the standard game and, once all players have taken their turn, the team who scores the biggest number of points wins the game.

If things are still even after all that, then you get to experience all of the excitement and drama of sudden death.

Each person takes one more go until finally, one team scores the most points.

Frequently Asked Questions About Molkky

What Does Molkky Mean?

With its roots dating back hundreds of years to the traditional throwing game of kyykkä (basically the Finnish version of Skittles), Mölkky has been steadily growing in popularity since it was first invented by Finland-based company Lahden Paikka back in 1996.

Yet despite its ever-increasing appeal, many of the game’s fans remain confused about what it’s name actually means.

That’s because it doesn’t actually mean anything.

Unlike other European lawn games such as bocce where the name is an actual word in the country of origin (bocce means ‘bowls‘ in Italian), Molkky is a word entirely made up by its creators.

While some suggest that it is based on the word pölkky, the Finnish term for a block of wood, Molkky refers to nothing more than the game itself.

How do you say Molkky?

It’s often said that the most difficult thing about Mölkky is saying it right. It’s such a strange-looking word (especially with that weird ö in there) that you’ll hear people calling it everything from “molky” to “mulka.”

We’ve even heard people pronouncing it as “milk-eh,” though to be fair, they’re probably the closest.

The name is actually pronounced [ˈmølkːy], with the o sounding a bit like the “eu” sound in words like pseudo and the y making an “uh” sound. So, to say Mölkky correctly, you’d actually say “Meulk-kuh.”

Is Finska the same as Molkky?

For the most part, yes, the Finska game you may already be familiar with is the same as Molkky.

So why the different names?

Basically, it all comes down to branding and copyright law.

In 2016, the game’s inventors sold all of their manufacturing and intellectual property rights to a company called Tactic.

The Finnish company now owns the registered trademark on the name MÖLKKY, but other manufacturers continue to sell similar versions under various brand names such as Finska.

While the rules and scoring are the same in both games, the only noticeable difference between Finska and Molkky is in the layout of the pins. Both have a specific formation, but the latter has the pins in a different order to the former.

Final Thought: Taking Your Molkky To the Next Level

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, a large part of Molkky’s appeal is that it’s the perfect outdoor game for all ages, providing just as much fun for an afternoon of BBQ and beer with your buddies as it does for quality family time with the kids.

Still, while it might be an entertaining way to spend an afternoon, there’s no denying that the game can get pretty addictive. In fact, for many people, what starts out as a way to pass the time on those long summer days soon turns into a serious hobby, with associations and tournaments cropping up all over the world.

In America, the United States Molkky Association organizes competitions in their home state of Minnesota and across the country.

If you find yourself drawn in by the game, why not get involved with the US Molkky Association and pit your skills against the best players in the land at the next big Molkky tournament?

Better yet, you could always start your own association, tournament, or competition in your home state and help others discover exactly why Molkky is fast becoming one of the most popular outdoor games in the country.

Featured Image Credit: Image by ullajj from Pixabay

The post How to Play Mölkky? The Finnish Throwing Game appeared first on Bar Games 101.

How to Play Croquet? “A Curious Ancient Pastime”

Murphy MacQuaid — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:00:49 +0000

When you think of croquet, what images pop into your mind?

Do you imagine older players, all of whom are dressed in white from head to toe, and similarly dressed fans seated under the cover of a pavilion, enjoying finger sandwiches and champagne spritzers?

While in some circles, croquet does continue to have a lingering stench of elitism, today’s croquet is much more proletarian in nature than that.

Croquet, especially as it is played in the US, is a challenging sport that emphasizes finesse and strategy over brute strength.

Anyone, regardless of age or gender, can enjoy playing. That is the reason why croquet is slowing building a base of new players.

Now is the time to give the sport a shot. And you can use this primer to learn how to play croquet, and get your friends hooked on this “curious ancient pastime”.

How to Play Croquet (American-Style)

Like most traditional games with histories stretching back over 400 years, there are many variations when it comes to sport.

This article describes how to play American-style, or Six Wicket American croquet.

American-Style croquet is, at its heart, a race game. Players, individually or in teams, try to maneuver balls through a series of wickets, or hoops, in a particular sequence before being the first to strike their balls against the center stake.

Due to its popularity in the US and the ease of finding other players, American-style croquet is a good variety of the game to dip your toe into the world of croquet.

Once you acquire the necessary skills and strategies of the sport, transitioning to a different version of the game isn’t too difficult.

The Equipment to Play Croquet

On Sale

Hathaway Deluxe 6-Player Croquet Set Multi, 33.5"L x 9"W x 2.75"H

You can find a huge range of croquet sets from plastic sets that cost less than 50 bucks and are made for children to high-end sets costing thousands.

A decent backyard croquet set may cost you a few hundred. When you choose a croquet set, look for one which contains the following:

Four mallets. You will need one mallet per player.
Four croquet balls. One side uses a blue and a black ball; the other side uses a red and an orange ball.
Six wickets. Many croquet sets come with nine wickets to allow you to play other varieties of the game, but for American-style croquet, you only need six.
A center stake. You may find a set with two stakes necessary for other croquet games.
Four clips; one each of blue, red, black, and yellow.
Four corner stakes or flags (optional). These are used to mark out the court boundaries and secure boundary line.
A deadboard (optional). A deadboard helps to keep track of a ball’s deadness on another.

Setting Up the Six Wicket American Court

The first time you step onto a regulation-sized playing field, or court, for American-style croquet, you might be surprised at the dimensions.

A full-sized court measures 105′ long by 84′ wide and can be intimidating to new players. Inexperienced players or those who do not have the space requirements for a regulations court may find shrinking down the size beneficial.

Choose a size that works for you, but you will still need to while to retain the five by four ratio of a full-sized court.

Reducing the dimensions of the court to 50′ by 40′ is a popular choice, especially when playing on grass higher than the preferred 1/4 of an inch in length.

It is critical to the gameplay that you clearly delineate the boundaries of the court. You can use any suitable field marking paint or stakes and boundary line.

If your set includes numbered corner stakes or flags, place the number 1 at the bottom-left of the court, number 2 in the upper-left, number 3 in the upper-right corner, and finally, number four in the lower-right.

The numbers help players to remember which direction they should be playing.

Once you lay down the boundaries, and the corner stakes or flags are in the correct locations, you are ready to place the center stake. As you can imagine, the center stake is in the exact center of the court.

Now you can put in the wickets. One wicket goes in each corner of the court, precisely one unit from each of the two closest boundary lines. This means that if you are playing on a 50′ by 40′ court, all corner wickets are set 10′ from boundary lines.

The two wickets in the center are lined up with the center stake vertically and are put in one unit away. Starting at the lower-left corner and moving clockwise, the wickets are numbered one through four.

The wicket under the center stake is numbered five, and the one above the stake is six.

After setting up the court, it should look like this.

Beginning the Game

With the court ready, you can start playing.

As mentioned above, Six Wicket American Croquet is a race. One side uses the blue and black balls, while the other side uses the red and orange balls.

The game may be played as either singles or doubles. In singles, each of the two players uses two balls. In doubles, each player uses a single ball, but two players on a team.

One of the most essential aspects of Six Wicket American croquet is that the play must always be in the same order: blue, red, black, and then yellow.

If you are ever confused about the order, all you need to do is look at the center stake. The order of play is shown in colored bands from top to bottom.

To start the game, the players decide teams and who will use the blue ball. This may be done through mutual agreement or by some other method.

The player using the blue will place the ball one mallet length in front of the first wicket. At this point, play may start.

The Progression of Play in Six Wicket American Croquet

Proceeding in the established order of blue, red, black, and then yellow, each player attempts to strike her ball using the end of the mallet in such a way to drive the ball through the first wicket.

Each player starts with a single stroke but can earn bonus strokes by accomplishing different actions.

Players can earn bonus strokes by:

Passing through a wicket. Players who hit their ball through the proper wicket going the correct direction will earn one bonus stroke. To qualify as going through a wicket, no part of the ball must be visible on the playing of the wicket when viewed from the side. Therefore, a ball is deemed to pass through a wicket even when the tail-end is partial under the wicket.
Hitting another ball. A player earns two bonus strokes by hitting another live ball with his own. This ball may belong to either his side or the opposing side. The first bonus shot is called a croquet shot. A player takes a croquet shot by picking up the striking ball and placing it in such a way that touches the ball that was struck. Then the player hits his ball in such a way that causes both balls to move. Unlike other croquet games, players are not allowed to prevent their ball from moving by holding it down in any way. After the croquet shot, the player then receives a bonus continuation shot that he plays normally.

An important concept to understand in Six Wicket American Croquet is deadness.

When a ball hits another ball, the striking ball is considered dead on the target ball. That means the striking player is unable to strike the same ball again until the striking ball is cleared.

A ball is cleared when it passes through a wicket. You may also choose one ball to clear when the opposing side passes through the seventh wicket.

Six Wicket American Croquet is unique in the fact that it is the only croquet game where deadness carries over for multiple turns until it is cleared.

To make it easier for players to remember, most use a deadboard which you may want to consider purchasing.

To help a player remember which wicket is next, once a player makes a wicket, she will place her ball colored clip on the next target wicket.

The first time around, clips go on the top of the wicket. During the return trip, clips go on the side of the wicket. The player will then continue trying to make wickets in order. A turn ends when a player runs out of strokes.

Any player who makes wickets one through six in order then must then run the same wickets in the order of two, one, four, three, six, five.

Once it makes all 12 wickets, it becomes a rover ball.

A rover ball has unique abilities. It may hit any other ball. Once it hits a ball, it becomes dead to that ball as usual. But unlike other balls, a rover ball must hit two different balls before it can clear itself.

Rover balls can clear itself by passing through any wicket in any direction. A rover ball is removed from play if it makes contact with the center stake.

>> Also worth checking out: How to play Bocce Ball

Winning the Game

The winner is the first side that strikes the center stake with both of the balls it controls.

Penalties

Breaking the rules of the game means suffering a penalty.

Each of the following penalties results in the striker ending the turn and replacing the balls where they were previously:

Going out of bounds. A ball is out of bounds if more than half of it is over the boundary. If a striker knocks his own ball out of bounds or if he hits another ball out of bounds for any reason, the ball is replaced inbounds one mallet head from where it went out.
Hitting a ball you are dead on. The exception is if the ball obstructed the target wicket for two consecutive turns.
Crushing the ball against the wicket or stake. If at any time the striker’s mallet and a wicket or stake are touching the ball at the same time, it is considered ‘crushing the ball.’
Playing the wrong ball. This applies even if your side controls the ball.

A player who commits the following two fouls must reset the balls, but will not lose her turn.

Playing out turn. This only refers to playing your ball at the wrong time.
Playing the ball in the wrong direction. All wickets must be made in a particular direction to count, and you may not pass through a wicket to get to the other side.

Six Wicket American Croquet is a wonderful game to try, most players find it can be a little confusing at first.

To better understand the game, it is an excellent idea to visit a local croquet club.

Many communities have public croquet courts you can use.

You can find a croquet club in your area, along with a lot more information on this exciting game at the United States Croquet Association’s website.

The post How to Play Croquet? “A Curious Ancient Pastime” appeared first on Bar Games 101.

Outdoor Games - Bar Games 101

11 Fun Summer Camp Games For Small Groups to Play

1. Camping Bingo

2. Bean Bag Bucket Basketball

3. Ballon Charades

4. Indy Five Hundred

5 Ladder Ball

6. Murder in the Dark

7. Noah’s Ark

8. 1-2-3 Look

9. Cotton Ball Hockey

10. Sardines

11. Twister

12. Five in Ten

To Round Things Up

10 Best BBQ Party Game Ideas for Adults

The Best BBQ Party Games Ideas for Adults

1 Giant Jenga

2. Liar Liar

3. Giant Chess

4. Tug-O-War

5. Spike Ball

6. Beer Pong

7. Heads Up

8. Twister

9. Cards Against Humanity

10. Ring of Fire

A Closing Word

Kubb Game Rules and How to Play?

What is Kubb?

What You’ll Need To Play

Kubbs/ Skittles

Batons

Pitch Stakes

Kubb Rules and Gameplay

The Aim of The Game

The Set-Up

Round 1

Subsequent Rounds

Winning Kubbs

Cooperative Play

Kubb – A Splendid Swedish Classic

How to Play Washer Toss Game – Rules and Plans

What is Washer Toss?

The Washers

Washer Toss Rules and Gameplay

The Aim of The Game

Set Up

Playing Washer Toss

House Rules

Washer Toss – A Wondrous Outdoor Game

10 Best Bocce Ball Set Reviews (Updated)

10 Best Bocce Ball Sets Reviews – Overview

1. Amazon Basic Bocce Ball Set

2. GoSports Bocce Set

3. Triumph Bocce Ball Set

4. Draroad Bocce Ball Set

5. ApudArmis Bocce Balls Set

6. Play Platoon Beach Bocce Set

7. Japer Bees Bocce Ball Set

8. Rally And Roar Bocce Ball Set

9. Rally And Roar Rubber Bocce Set

10. Franklin Sports Bocce Ball Set

Best Bocce Ball Set Buyers Guide

What’s Your Budget?

Casual or Experienced?

What’s the Best Bocce Ball Set To Buy?

Polish Horseshoes: How to Play and What You’ll Need

Setting Up Polish Horseshoes

DIY Polish Horseshoes Setup

Yardies Polish Horseshoes (Beersbee), Red (OG001NS1) Buy Now on Amazon Affiliate link / commissions earned (read disclosure)

Poles

The Frisbee

Beer Bottles or Cans

Why Use a Polish Horseshoes Set

How to Play Polish Horseshoes

Scoring

The Rules of Polish Horseshoes

Drinking Game Rules

And that’s it. Polish Horseshoes is a fun and challenging yard game.

Yardies Polish Horseshoes (Beersbee), Red (OG001NS1)

Buy Now on Amazon Affiliate link / commissions earned (read disclosure)