Fun & Easy Games to Play On Course Everyday

Golf games that cater to players of all abilities can make a round more enjoyable and competitive for everyone involved, regardless of skill level. These games emphasize fun, strategy, and a bit of luck, making every round engaging for beginners, intermediates, and advanced golfers alike. Here are some entertaining golf game ideas:

• Bingo Bango Bongo
  Objective: Points are awarded on each hole for three achievements: being the first player to get their ball on the green (Bingo), being the player whose ball is closest to the pin once all balls are on the green (Bango), and being the first player to hole out (Bongo). This game rewards strategic play and can be won by players of any skill level.
• Scramble (Best Ball)
  Objective: Players form teams of two or more. Each player tees off, and the team chooses the best shot. From there, all team members play their next shot from that location. This process is repeated until the ball is holed. Scrambles level the playing field and allow players of all skill levels to contribute to the team’s success.
• Wolf
  Objective: Played in a group of four, where each player takes turns being the “Wolf.” On each hole, the Wolf decides whether to pick a partner based on the outcome of their drives (before the next shot is taken). The hole is then played as a best ball match between the Wolf (and their partner, if chosen) against the other two players. Points are awarded based on the outcome of the hole, and the player with the most points at the end wins.
• Vegas
  Objective: This is a two-on-two game where team scores are paired together, rather than combined, to form a double-digit number. Lower scores are paired first, meaning a 4 and a 5 would be 45 rather than 54. This game can lead to big swings in points and is great for mixed ability groups because a good shot from a higher handicapper can significantly impact the team’s score.
• Stableford
  Objective: A scoring system that awards points based on the number of strokes taken at each hole, adjusted for handicap. For example, 1 point for a bogey, 2 points for a par, 3 points for a birdie, and so on. The goal is to accumulate the highest point total. Because it’s adjusted for handicap, it’s an excellent format for golfers of varying abilities.
• Flags
  Objective: Each player receives an allocation of strokes based on their handicap (for example, a par 72 course plus their handicap). Players then see how far around the course they can get with their allocated strokes. The game ends when a player uses up their strokes; the ball’s final resting spot is marked with a flag. The furthest flag wins.
• Match Play vs. Par
  Objective: Players compete against the course in a match play format. On each hole, a net par (adjusted for the player’s handicap) is considered a “halve” with the course, a net birdie or better wins the hole, and a net bogey or worse loses the hole. This format allows players of all skill levels to compete on an even footing.

Fun Additions for Any Game

• Mulligans: Allow one or more mulligans during a round to forgive poor shots, beneficial for high handicappers.
• Gimmies: Agree on a “gimmie” distance for putts to speed up play and help level the playing field.
• Handicap Adjustments: Use handicaps to adjust scores, making the competition fair regardless of skill level.

By incorporating these games into your rounds, golf becomes accessible and enjoyable for players with a wide range of skills and experiences. Remember, the key to any golf game is not just the competition but enjoying the camaraderie and challenge of the game itself.