• Beer pong is the quintessential drinking game involving ping-pong balls
  • Many other popular games can be played with ping-pong balls
  • Get creative and add your own twist to ping pong ball drinking games
  • Take precautions and drink responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience

Introduction to Drinking Games with Ping Pong Balls

Welcome to the world of drinking games with ping pong balls! If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to spice up your parties or gatherings, you've come to the right place. In this complete guide, we'll introduce you to some of the best drinking games that incorporate ping pong balls, including the classic beer pong and its many variations. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete newbie, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of beer pong and other ping-pong ball-drinking games.

Drinking games have been a staple of social gatherings for centuries, and ping pong balls have become an essential ingredient in many of the best drink party games for adults. The beauty of these games is that they can be played with a wide range of skill levels, making them perfect for both casual players and competitive gamers alike. Plus, they're a great way to break the ice and get people talking, laughing, and having a good time.

One of the most popular drinking games with ping pong balls is, of course, beer pong. This classic game has been played at parties and bars across the globe, and its official rules have evolved to create a challenging and entertaining experience. But beer pong is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to drinking games with ping pong balls. In this guide, we'll also explore other popular games, creative variations, and even drinking games for two people, ensuring that you'll never run out of options for a fun night or a lively party.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the world of drinking games with ping pong balls and discover the best gamer drinks, strategies, and tips to become a true drunk game champion. Cheers!

group of friends playing beer pong at a party

The Classic: Beer Pong

Beer pong is the quintessential drinking game involving ping pong balls and is a staple at parties, bars, and college campuses worldwide. The game's objective is to throw or bounce a ping pong ball into your opponent's cups, which are filled with beer or another beverage. When a ball lands in a cup, the opponent must drink the contents of that cup. The game continues until one team has successfully eliminated all of their opponent's cups.

beer pong table setup

The standard setup for beer pong involves two teams, each with 10 cups arranged in a triangular formation at opposite ends of a long table. The cups should be filled with a reasonable amount of beer or another beverage, typically around 1/3 to 1/2 full. Each team takes turns attempting to throw or bounce the ping pong ball into the opposing team's cups. If a ball lands in a cup, the contents must be consumed, and the cup is removed from the table. The game continues until one team has no cups remaining.

While the basic rules of beer pong are simple, many variations and house rules can be introduced to make the game more challenging or entertaining. Some popular variations include "re-racking" the cups into different formations, allowing for "trick shots" or "bounce shots" that can result in multiple cups being removed, and implementing a "redemption round" where the losing team has a chance to come back and win the game.

beer pong variations

Beer pong is not only a test of skill and accuracy but also a social game that encourages friendly competition and camaraderie. Whether you're a seasoned beer pong veteran or a newcomer to the game, it's essential to remember that the primary goal is to have fun and enjoy the company of your fellow players. So, grab your ping pong balls, fill up your cups, and let the games begin!

While beer pong may be the most well-known drinking game involving ping pong balls, there are plenty of other games you can play with these versatile little balls. Here are a few other popular games to try out:

1. Flip Cup: This game is a team-based relay race that involves flipping a cup upside down after drinking its contents. The first team to finish flipping all their cups wins.

Flip Cup is a popular team-based drinking game that involves coordination, speed, and a bit of fun competition. Here are more detailed instructions for playing Flip Cup:

Objective:

The main goal of Flip Cup is to be the first team to successfully flip and land all of their cups upside down by flicking them with your fingers.

Setup:

1. Gather your friends and divide them into two teams. Each team should have an equal number of players.

2. Place a long table or a flat surface in the center of the playing area.

3. Set up cups in a straight line along the edge of the table. Each player should have a cup filled with the same amount of beverage, usually beer or another drink. A common number of cups per team is 5, but you can adjust this based on the number of players and your preferences.

Gameplay:

1. Each team lines up on one side of the table, facing the cups.

2. Decide which team will go first through a coin toss or another fair method.

3. The first players from each team stand across from each other at the table, ready to play.

Round Sequence:

1. The game is played in rounds. A round consists of the following steps:

a. The first player from each team drinks the contents of their cup as quickly as possible.

b. After finishing the drink, the player places the empty cup on the edge of the table, the rim hanging slightly over the edge.

c. With a quick finger flick, the player attempts to flip the cup upside down by hitting the rim. The cup must make a full 180-degree flip to be considered successful.

Passing the Turn:

1. Once the first player from a team successfully flips their cup, they can move on to the next player in line.

2. The next player repeats the steps mentioned in the "Round Sequence" section.

3. Players continue taking turns until all members of one team have successfully flipped their cups.

Winning:

The team that successfully flips all of their cups upside down first wins the game.

Additional Rules and Tips:

1. If a player fails to flip their cup, they must quickly retrieve it, drink the remaining beverage, and try again before the next player on their team starts their turn.

2. Teams can help motivate and cheer for their players, creating a fun and lively atmosphere.

3. For larger groups, you can create brackets or a tournament-style format to determine the ultimate Flip Cup champion.

4. Make sure to play responsibly and be mindful of alcohol consumption. It's important to stay hydrated and know your limits.

Remember that the primary focus of Flip Cup is having fun and enjoying the company of friends. Feel free to modify the rules or game structure to better suit the preferences and dynamics of your group.

2. Three-Man: In this game, one player is designated as the "three-man" and is responsible for rolling a pair of dice. The other players take turns rolling the ping pong ball into a cup, and if they miss, the three-man must drink.Β It's a social and lively game that can get quite entertaining as the dice roll and drinks flow. Here's a more detailed set of instructions for playing Three Man:

Objective:

The goal of Three Man is to roll dice and follow the corresponding rules, which often involve assigning drinks to other players, taking drinks yourself, and creating an engaging and fun atmosphere.

Setup:

1. Gather three or more players.

2. You'll need two six-sided dice.

3. Have drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) ready for each player.

Gameplay:

1. To start the game, choose a player to be the "Three Man." The Three Man is a player who will have special rules applied to them throughout the game.

Basic Rules:

1. Players take turns rolling the two dice.

2. The total on the dice determines the actions taken. The following rules are applied:

- 3: The Three Man drinks. If the Three Man rolls a 3, they can assign another player to take a drink.

- 7: The player to the left of the roller drinks.

- 11: The player to the right of the roller drinks.

- Doubles (e.g., 2-2, 4-4, 6-6): The roller assigns drinks to any other player, distributing the total of the dice between them.

Rolling the Three Man:

1. If a player rolls a 3 and a 1, they become the new Three Man. The previous Three Man is now free from their special obligations.

Additional Rules and Variations:

1. Bust: If a player rolls a 1 and a 2, they're known as "Bust" and must drink.

2. Chug: A player can challenge another player to a chugging contest. If the challenged player loses, they drink. If they win, the challenger drinks.

3. Doubles Rule: Instead of assigning drinks for doubles, you can assign specific actions. For example, rolling double 4s could mean that everyone must touch their nose, and the last person to do so drinks.

4. Three Man's Call: The Three Men can make a "Three Man's Call" whenever they want. They roll the dice, and if they get a 3, they assign drinks as usual. If they get a 3-1, they assign the drinks and keep their status as Three Man. If they roll any other combination, nothing happens.

Ending the Game:

Three Man is typically played as an ongoing social activity. However, you can set a time limit or a drink limit for the game, or you can play until players decide to stop.

Remember to drink responsibly and be mindful of each player's alcohol consumption. Adapt the rules and variations to suit your group's preferences and ensure everyone has a good time.

3. Beirut:Β also known as "Beer Pong," is a classic party drinking game that involves throwing ping pong balls into cups of beer arranged on a table. It's a game of skill, accuracy, and a bit of luck. Here are more detailed instructions for playing Beirut:

Objective:

The objective of Beirut is to eliminate the opposing team's cups by successfully landing ping pong balls into them.

Setup:

1. Set up a rectangular table at an appropriate height. A regulation beer pong table is around 8 feet long and 2 feet wide, but you can use any flat surface available.

2. Arrange cups in a triangular formation at each end of the table. A common setup is 10 cups arranged in a pyramid pattern (4 cups, 3 cups, 2 cups, 1 cup).

3. Fill each cup with a small amount of beer or another drink. The amount can vary, but a few sips' worth is typical. You can also use water or non-alcoholic beverages instead of beer.

Gameplay:

1. Divide players into two teams and have each team stand at one end of the table behind their cups.

2. Decide which team goes first. This can be determined by a coin toss or other fair methods.

3. Each team takes turns attempting to throw ping pong balls into the opposing team's cups.

Throwing Rules:

1. A player throws a ping pong ball from the side of the table towards the opponent's cups.

2. The ball must bounce once on the table before entering a cup. If the ball goes directly into a cup without bouncing, it doesn't count.

3. If a ball lands in a cup, a member of the opposing team must drink the contents of that cup and remove it from the table.

Re-Racks:

As cups are eliminated, the formation can change. If desired, players can request a "re-rack" to rearrange the remaining cups into a more compact formation. Common re-rack formations include a triangle with 3 cups or a straight line with 4 cups.

Winning:

The game continues until one team successfully eliminates all of the opposing team's cups. The last team with cups remaining wins the game.

House Rules and Variations:

1. Bounce Shots: Some variations allow players to call "bounce" before their shot. If the ball bounces once on the table and lands in a cup, it counts as two cups and the opposing team drinks two cups.

2. Death Cup: If a team throws a ball into a cup that already has a ball in it (due to a missed shot), the opposing team wins immediately.

3. Island Rule: If cups remain with no cups touching them on either side, they can be blown into by the opposing team to move them closer together.

Responsibility and Hygiene:

1. Ensure players drink responsibly and are of legal drinking age.

2. Clean the ping pong balls periodically to maintain hygiene.

3. Have a cup of clean water nearby to rinse off balls that hit the floor.

Remember, Beirut is intended to be a fun and social game. Be mindful of alcohol consumption, and encourage a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere for all players.

4. Slap Cup:Β Β is a fast-paced and competitive drinking game that combines elements of speed, coordination, and hand-eye coordination. It's a great game to liven up parties and gatherings. the game involves bouncing the ball into a cup and then passing the cup to the next player, who must slap the cup before the next player can take their turn.Β Here are more detailed instructions for playing Slap Cup:

Objective:

The main goal of the Slap Cup is to bounce a ping pong ball into a cup and then quickly slap the cup to send it to the next player. The game continues until a player fails to bounce the ball into the cup or slaps it too late.

Setup:

1. Gather a group of players and set up a rectangular table. Any flat surface will do, but a ping-pong table or a larger table works best.

2. Place a large number of cups (plastic cups work well) in the center of the table, forming a circle or oval with the rims slightly hanging off the edge of the table.

3. Fill each cup with a small amount of beer or another drink. Again, the amount can vary, but it's usually a few sips' worth.

Gameplay:

1. Divide the players into two teams and have each team sit or stand on opposite sides of the table, facing the cups.

Basic Rules:

1. Each team takes turns attempting to bounce a ping pong ball into one of their cups.

2. If a player successfully bounces the ball into their cup, they immediately pass the cup to the player to their left (clockwise direction).

Slap Rules:

1. Once the cup is passed to the next player, that player tries to bounce the ball into their cup.

2. If the player makes the ball into their cup on the first try, they pass the cup to the player on their left. However, if they need more than one bounce, they must quickly pick up the cup and drink from it before passing it to the left.

3. The player to the right of the person attempting the shot can try to slap the cup away to prevent them from bouncing the ball in. If they successfully slap the cup away, the player who was attempting the shot must retrieve the ball, drink from their cup, and then bounce the ball into the cup again.

Winning:

The game continues until one team has successfully bounced the ball into all of their cups. The team that finishes first wins the game.

Additional Rules and Variations:

1. Redemption Shot: If a player bounces the ball into a cup on the first try, the player to their right gets one chance to knock the cup away before they can pass it.

2. Island: If there are three empty cups in a row, a player can declare an "island" by stacking those cups. The player who scores must shoot for the island, and if they miss, they drink.

3. Three Bounces: Some variations allow players three bounces to make the ball into the cup before they must drink and pass the cup.

Responsibility and Fun:

As with any drinking game, remember to play responsibly and be mindful of your own and others' alcohol consumption. Keep the game light-hearted and fun, and adjust the rules to suit the preferences and dynamics of your group.

5. Chandelier:Β Β is a popular drinking game that combines elements of accuracy, strategy, and a bit of luck. It's commonly played at parties and gatherings and can get quite competitive and fun.Β In this game, cups are hung from a chandelier or other overhead fixture, and players take turns trying to bounce the ball into the cups. If a player makes a cup, they choose another player to drink from it.Β Here are more detailed instructions for playing Chandelier:

Objective:

The main objective of Chandelier is to eliminate cups from the opposing team by successfully bouncing a ping pong ball into them, while also avoiding the "chandelier cup."

Setup:

1. Gather a group of players and set up a rectangular table. A ping pong table or a larger table works best.

2. Place a triangle of cups at both ends of the table. Each triangle should have 6 cups, similar to a beer pong setup, but with an extra "chandelier cup" in the center.

Gameplay:

1. Divide players into two teams and have each team stand at one end of the table behind their cups.

2. Each team should also designate a "chandelier cup shooter" who stands to the side of the table, aiming to make the ball into the center cup.

Basic Rules:

1. The game starts with a "chandelier cup shootout." Each team's chandelier cup shooter takes turns attempting to bounce the ping pong ball into the center cup. The team whose shooter makes the ball into the cup goes first.

Gameplay Rounds:

1. A turn consists of each player attempting to bounce the ball into the opposing team's cups.

2. If a player successfully bounces the ball into a cup, the opposing team must drink the contents of that cup and remove it from the table.

3. However, if the opposing team catches the ball in midair after it bounces off a cup, the shooting team must drink a "social cup," which is a communal cup filled with some of each player's drink.

4. If the ball bounces off the table, the shooting team can attempt a "rebuttal shot" to save one of their cups. If the rebuttal shot is successful, the cup remains on the table.

Chandelier Cup:

1. The center cup is the "chandelier cup." If a shooter makes the ball into this cup, the opposing team must assemble their cups into a pyramid formation, known as the "chandelier."

2. The opposing team must drink from each cup in the chandelier before resuming the game.

Winning:

The game continues until one team has successfully eliminated all of the opposing team's cups.

Additional Rules and Variations:

1. Bounce Shot: Some variations allow players to call "bounce" before their shot. If the ball bounces once on the table and lands in a cup, it counts as two cups.

2. Death Cup: If a team throws a ball into a cup that already has a ball in it (due to a missed shot), the opposing team wins immediately.

3. Re-Rack: As cups are eliminated, you can request a "re-rack" to rearrange the remaining cups.

Responsibility and Fun:

As always, play responsibly and be mindful of alcohol consumption. A chandelier can be a high-energy and engaging game, so ensure everyone is having fun and staying safe. Adapt the rules to fit your group's preferences and enjoy the game together.

These are just a few examples of the many drinking games you can play with ping pong balls. Remember to always drink responsibly and take breaks if needed. And don't forget to have fun!

Creative Variations to Spice Up Your Game

Now that you've got a taste of some popular ping pong ball drinking games, it's time to get creative and add your twist to these classics. Here are a few variations and ideas to spice up your game night:

1. Themed Beer Pong: Add a fun twist to the classic beer pong by incorporating a theme. For example, you could use cups with different colors or patterns, or even decorate the table with a specific theme, like a favorite movie or sports team. This adds a unique touch to the game and can make it even more enjoyable for everyone involved.

2. Trick Shot Challenges: Incorporate trick shots into your ping pong ball drinking games to raise the stakes and show off your skills. For example, you could require players to bounce the ball off a wall or other objects before it lands in a cup, or have them shoot from a specific distance or angle. This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game.

trick shot beer pong

3. Battle of the Sexes: Divide your group into teams based on gender and play a round of beer pong or another ping pong ball drinking game. This adds a competitive edge to the game and can lead to some hilarious banter between teams.

4. Speed Pong: Turn up the intensity by adding a time limit to your ping pong ball drinking games. Set a timer, and players must complete their turn within the allotted time or face a penalty, such as taking an extra drink or performing a dare. This variation keeps the game fast-paced and adds an extra element of pressure.

speed pong drinking game

5. Custom Rules: Get creative and come up with your own custom rules for your favorite ping pong ball-drinking games. You could introduce new ways to score points, penalties for certain actions, or even rewards for impressive shots. This allows you to tailor the game to your group's preferences and keep things fresh and exciting.

These are just a few ideas to help you spice up your ping pong ball drinking games and make them even more entertaining. Remember, the key is to have fun and enjoy the company of your friends. So, get creative, experiment with new variations, and most importantly, drink responsibly!

Tips and Tricks for Winning at Ping Pong Drinking Games

Ping pong ball drinking games are a fun way to spend time with friends and enjoy a few drinks. However, winning these games can be a challenge, especially if you're playing against experienced players. Here are some tips and tricks to help you improve your game and increase your chances of winning:

1. Practice Your Shots: The key to winning at ping pong ball drinking games is to have good aim and accuracy. Spend some time practicing your shots before the game, and focus on hitting the cups consistently. You can also experiment with different throwing techniques to find what works best for you.

2. Stay Sober: While it may be tempting to drink heavily during the game, it's important to stay sober if you want to win. Drinking too much can impair your judgment and coordination, making it harder to hit your shots. Pace yourself and drink water in between rounds to stay hydrated.

3. Focus on Defense: In addition to practicing your shots, it's important to focus on defense as well. Try to block your opponent's shots and knock their cups off the table to prevent them from scoring. This can be just as important as making your shots.

4. Use Strategy: Ping pong ball drinking games require strategy as well as skill. Try to anticipate your opponent's moves and adjust your strategy accordingly. For example, if they consistently aim for a certain cup, you can try to block that cup or move it to a different location.

5. Stay Calm: Finally, it's important to stay calm and focused during the game. Don't let your emotions get the best of you, and avoid getting too competitive or aggressive. Remember, the goal is to have fun and enjoy the game with your friends.

By following these tips and tricks, you can improve your chances of winning at ping pong ball drinking games and have a great time with your friends. Just remember to drink responsibly and stay safe while playing. Cheers!

Safety First: Precautions to Take While Playing Drinking Games

While playing drinking games with ping pong balls can be a fun way to spend time with friends, it's important to take precautions to ensure everyone stays safe. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Drink Responsibly: It's important to remember that drinking games are still drinking, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dangerous situations. Make sure everyone is aware of their limits and pace yourselves accordingly. Encourage players to drink water in between rounds to stay hydrated.

2. Use Clean Cups: Before starting the game, make sure all cups are clean and free of any debris. This can help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.

3. Avoid Broken Glass: While it may be tempting to use glass cups for a more authentic feel, it's safer to use plastic cups instead. Broken glass can cause serious injuries, especially if players are barefoot.

4. Keep the Playing Area Clear: Make sure the playing area is free of any obstacles or tripping hazards. This can help prevent accidents and injuries.

5. Designate a Sober Driver: If players plan on drinking, it's important to have a designated driver or plan for transportation. Never drink and drive.

By following these precautions, you can ensure a fun and safe experience while playing drinking games with ping pong balls. Remember to always drink responsibly and prioritize safety above all else. Cheers!

Conclusion: Have Fun and Drink Responsibly

As we wrap up our complete guide to drinking games with ping pong balls, it's essential to emphasize the importance of having fun and drinking responsibly. These games are meant to bring people together, create memorable moments, and add a competitive edge to your social gatherings. However, the key to enjoying these games lies in striking the right balance between fun and safety.

Drinking responsibly is not just about knowing your limits, but also about looking out for your friends and fellow players. Encourage open communication and make sure everyone feels comfortable expressing their boundaries. Remember, the goal is to have a good time, not to push anyone past their limits.

As you explore the various drinking games with ping pong balls, don't be afraid to get creative and come up with your variations. This can make the games even more enjoyable and tailored to your group's preferences. Just be sure to keep safety in mind when introducing new rules or twists to the games.

When hosting a drinking game night, consider providing non-alcoholic options for those who may not want to drink or need a break between rounds. This can help ensure that everyone feels included and can participate in the fun, regardless of their drinking preferences.

Finally, always remember the importance of planning for transportation after a night of drinking games. Whether it's designating a sober driver, arranging for rideshares, or having a place for guests to stay overnight, taking these precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure everyone gets home safely.

group of friends enjoying drinking games responsibly

In conclusion, drinking games with ping pong balls can be an entertaining and engaging way to spend time with friends and loved ones. By keeping safety in mind, drinking responsibly, and encouraging creativity, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for all. So, gather your friends, set up the cups, and let the games begin. Cheers to a night of fun, laughter, and responsible drinking!

Maxwell Shotski
cocktails, mixology, bartending, drinking games

Maxwell is a professional bartender and has worked in some of the best bars in the world. He knows all the tricks of the trade and loves teaching others how to make the perfect cocktail.

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