Switch Up the Game
You’re already engaging in a game—so why not modify the rules occasionally?
These disc golf variations provide exciting new ways to practice and compete. Transform your local course into a fresh challenge. Take bold shots with confidence. Choose a format that helps you finally defeat that unbeatable friend!
Formats That Shift the Focus
Wolf
In this format, one player acts as the “Wolf” and tees off last for each hole. The Wolf observes all players’ tee shots and chooses a partner based on their favorite shot. Once the next player tees off, previous options are off the table. If the Wolf doesn’t pick a teammate by the end, they go solo. Winning the hole solo grants double points, while everyone else gains one point if the Wolf loses. Rotate the Wolf each hole. Best suited for 4 or more players.
PUTT
Similar to HORSE in basketball, you call out a putt and take your shot. If you succeed and your opponent fails, they receive a letter. The first to spell PUTT loses. This game is excellent for warming up.
Birdie or Die
Forget traditional scoring; you earn points only for making birdies (1 point) and eagles (3 points). Par, bogey, and higher scores are all worth zero.
Bingo Bango Bongo
You can earn three points per hole:
- Bingo – Longest drive off the tee
- Bango – Closest to the pin after the approach
- Bongo – First to hole out
Winning the hole is not required to score. The order of play matters, with the farthest player throwing first, and those at the back of the box have an advantage off the tee.
Match Play
In this format, instead of counting strokes, players compete to win individual holes, each worth one point. Winning a hole results in a 1-up score, losing results in 1-down, and ties keep the score unchanged. The player with the most wins at the end takes the match. It encourages players to adapt their strategies based on their opponent’s performance.
Skins
Each hole offers one skin (or point). To win a skin, you must win the hole outright. If players tie, the skin rolls over to the next hole. This format can be played for bragging rights, with or without stakes.
Team Up
Best Shot Doubles
In this fun and forgiving format, both teammates throw each shot, always playing from the best lie available. Suitable for all skill levels, it’s one of the most favored league formats.
Worst Shot Doubles
In this format, each player throws, but the team plays from the worst lie. If one player hits a tree, all subsequent throws must be made from behind it. It’s an excellent way to practice recovery shots and test friendships!
Alternate Shot Doubles
Partners take turns playing, with one player throwing at a time. If your partner drives, you follow up with the putt—simple and engaging.
Rotating Partner Doubles
At the beginning of each hole, players draw new partners. You compete in best shot doubles with that partner for one hole before switching again. Each player keeps their own score to determine the winner at the end.
Additional Games
Ript Revenge
This card game brings an element of sabotage to a standard round. Players can cancel putts, steal discs, or impose unusual shot types, all while maintaining normal stroke play rules amidst the chaos.
Disc Dice
Utilize a set of Disc Dice or create your set. Roll one die to select a disc type (Putter, Driver, etc.) and another to determine shot type (forehand, backhand, etc.). If you roll a tomahawk with your putter, you have to take that shot! It’s a fun mix of practice and silliness.
Mini Disc Golf
Use mini markers in place of standard discs. You can use mini baskets if available, or improvise with small objects as targets. This format is perfect for indoor play or smaller spaces.
Running Round
Your final score will be your time (in minutes) added to your strokes. Move quickly between shots to finish as soon as possible while trying to maintain a good score. This format is great for exercise or when time is tight.
Object Golf
You don’t need baskets for this version. Choose any object, like a tree or bench, as your hole target. Follow standard disc golf rules otherwise, and feel free to transform your yard into a course. Be mindful of others and any breakable items if playing in public.
Create Your Own
Every game here originated from creative experimentation. Feel free to invent your own variations. If it’s entertaining, share it with your friends—the disc golf community may embrace it!
