5 Games to Play on The Golf Course

Playing traditional golf and counting your score will always be your number one way to improve. However, within the game of golf, there are so many different games that can be played. This makes playing with buddies more competitive and a lot more fun. If you lack ideas for what games to play, this article will list 5 games to play on the golf course that have stood the test of time and are considered the most fun.

1 – ALTERNATE SHOT

If you’ve ever watched the Ryder Cup you should know this format already. This is where a foursome breaks up into two teams. They will play 2v2 every hole and the team with the lower score on a hole will win a point. After 18 holes the team with the most points will win the game.

How this differs from standard matchplay, is that each shot will be taken by a different teammate. For example, if Play A tees off the hole, Player B must play the approach shot. The shooter will alternate every stroke. Making it very challenging as your partner can leave you in some bad spots.

The intensity of this game and the laughs between teammates make it a top game to play on the golf course. Another reason it has become a much-played game is because you can have 2 bad players and pair them with a good player and have a competitive round.  This is something me and my buddies do all the time when we bring on new golfers. Watch Foreplay Golf play Alternate Shot here.

2 – SCRAMBLE

This game is by far my favorite game. This game can be played with 2-4 players. It isn’t a competitive game. However, it’s great for playing with your friends.

You and up to 3 players all play the scorecard. Every player drives the ball and then you pick which ball you want to play. Then every player hits again from that shot. You keep doing this until the ball finds the hole. When calculating your score, you only count how many shots were chosen, not how many times you guys hit the ball.

The best part of Scramble is that if you play with 3 of your friends, you guys spend the entire round side by side. Instead of separating in twos and going off and finding your balls, hitting, and only meeting up and the green and tee box. It also relieves stress for the beginners in your group.

3 – SKINS

This game is almost always motivated by money. However, for this example, we’ll use points. Each hole is valued at a certain number of points. If a player wins the hole he is granted those points. Should a hole be tied, it will carry over to the next round. This can make the later rounds worth a lot of points and be very intense!

The game can be played by any number of players. Watch this crazy 60-person Skins match here!

4 – SIXES

This is as simple as it gets. In a round of 18, the holes are divided into groups of 6. Front 6, Middle 6, Back 6. At the end of every 6 holes, the player with the lowest score will be crowned the winner. You may need to add in strokes for those with high handicaps. However, this will grant you a fresh score every 6 holes which is great for the mental and will keep you engaged throughout the 18 holes.

Any number of players can play this game.

5 – BINGO, BANGO, BONGO

This is one of the odder games to play on the golf course but can be very fun for higher handicappers. The point of the game is to be the first to do something.

The first person on the green gets a point – BINGO!

Closest to the pin once all balls reach the green gets a point – BANGO!

The first person to hole out gets a point – BONGO!

At the end of the round, whoever player has the most points wins! Can be played by 2-4 players. Watch a video about it here.

Golf offers a myriad of entertaining game variations that add a competitive and enjoyable twist to the traditional sport. From the strategic challenge of Alternate Shot to the camaraderie of Best Ball, these games enhance the golfing experience and cater to players of all skill levels. Skins introduces a touch of excitement with points on the line, while Sixes provides a refreshing scoring format every six holes. The quirky Bingo, Bango, Bongo adds a playful element, particularly beneficial for higher handicappers. These timeless and engaging golf games not only foster friendly competition but also create lasting memories on the course, making golf a sport rich in diversity and enjoyment. Hope this helps you have more fun!

Check out my latest articles on how to save money on golf!