The warm weather is finally here, and what better way to enjoy it than to spend time in your own backyard? We all know that nothing beats a good old-fashioned backyard game. These games bring out the competitive spirit in us and bring joy to our loved ones. So why not make the most out of the outside space by playing some fun backyard games? In this blog post, we will share with you some of the most popular backyard games that you can try out with your friends and family. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit!
Cornhole
Cornhole is a classic backyard game that requires two boards and eight corn-filled bags. Players take turns throwing the bags at the boards to score points. Whoever reaches 21 points first, wins. Cornhole is a game that everyone can play, regardless of age or skill level. It’s perfect for social gatherings or a family day outside.
Competitive Cornhole
Playing cornhole competitively elevates the game to a whole new level. Not only does it test your hand-eye coordination, but it also requires strategic thinking and precision. Top players are able to maneuver their throws to either slide the bag into the hole, or to block the board for their opponent. They can even knock their opponent's bag off the board or bump their own bag into the hole.
In competitive play, the rules are more stringent; for instance, players must remain within the pitcher's box and the bag should be delivered within 20 seconds of stepping onto the pitcher's box. The game is typically played in rounds, with each player throwing 4 bags and points being calculated at the end of each round. Points cancel each other out, so only one player or team can score per round. This aspect of the scoring system introduces a significant amount of strategy and suspense.
Competitive cornhole is not just backyard fun, it has grown into a nationwide phenomenon with established leagues and televised tournaments. Dedicated players often own their own set of bags, each one perfectly broken in and tailored to their throwing style. This is a game where skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck can lead to hours of outdoor fun. Players must also have their own regulation cornhole boards.
Giant Jenga
If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your skills and patience, then giant Jenga is the right game for you. This game is played by stacking wooden blocks on top of each other and then slowly removing them without causing the tower to fall. The player who successfully removes the most blocks without causing the tower to fall is declared as the winner. The larger size of the blocks adds an element of difficulty and excitement to the game.
Strategic Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga calls for a steady hand and a tactical mind. Unlike the smaller, more traditional version of the game, the giant variant commands a physical presence and brings a new level of intensity to the mix. Players must carefully consider each block's position and weight before making a move, as the wrong choice could lead to the tower's spectacular downfall.
The game starts with 18 levels of blocks, 3 blocks per level. Players take turns removing one block at a time from any level of the tower except the one below an incomplete top level. The removed block must then be placed on top of the tower, creating a new level. As the game progresses, the tower becomes increasingly unstable, and blocks become harder to remove without toppling the structure.
Giant Jenga can provide hours of nail-biting fun. Whether played at a casual backyard gathering or at a more intense competitive level, the game's appeal lies in its simple rules and the suspense it generates. It's a game of physical dexterity, strategic planning, and suspense that will keep players engaged and entertained.
Bocce Ball
Bocce Ball is a game that originated in Italy and is perfect for those who love a good game of strategy. The objective of the game is to get the larger ball as close as possible to the smaller ball, also known as the jack. The team or player who gets the closest to the jack wins. The game may sound simple, but it involves a lot of skill and strategy.
Competition in Bocce Ball
The competitive aspect of Bocce Ball lies in its simplicity yet strategic gameplay. At its heart, bocce is a game of precision and positioning, where the goal is to get your bocce balls closer to the pallino (the smaller target ball) than your opponent's. Competing in bocce ball demands a keen eye, careful aim, and strategic thinking. Experienced players will not only aim for proximity to the pallino but also attempt to knock away their opponent's balls or even move the target ball itself to a more advantageous position. To aid in these strategic maneuvers, bocce balls are typically weighted and designed for a variety of surfaces, allowing skilled players to execute curving throws and other advanced shots. Despite the competitive nature, the spirit of the game is often relaxed and sociable, making it a perfect choice for backyard fun.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam has been gaining popularity in recent years and for a good reason. It’s an exciting game that combines frisbee and trash cans. The game is played by attempting to get the frisbee through a slot in the trash can, with the help of a teammate. If the frisbee hits the can, it’s worth one point. If the frisbee goes through the slot, it’s worth three points. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
Delving Deeper into Kan Jam
Kan Jam is not just about throwing frisbees; it's a game of precision, teamwork, and a bit of luck. A pair of players work together, with one throwing the frisbee and the other redirecting it towards the can, ideally through the slot for the maximum points. But what makes Kan Jam unique is the unpredictable nature of the game. The frisbee can bounce, curve, or be deflected, adding unexpected twists to the competition.
It's also a game that encourages active participation. The thrower aims to get the frisbee into the can while the deflector uses their quick reflexes to guide it in, fostering seamless cooperation between team members. Moreover, the game is lightweight and portable, making it easy to set up in your backyard, local park, or even the beach. Whether it's a sunny afternoon or a cool evening, you can enjoy this flexible game anywhere and anytime.
It's easy to see why Kan Jam has been gaining popularity. It's a game that caters to all - whether you are a frisbee pro or a complete beginner. The thrill of aiming, deflecting and scoring, combined with the joy of teamwork, makes Kan Jam a must-have for every backyard event. So, gather your friends and family, form your teams, and let the frisbee fly!
Spikeball
Spikeball is the ultimate game for those who are looking for a challenge. This game involves a round net and a ball, similar to what you see in beach volleyball. The objective of the game is to spike the ball onto the net and make it bounce back to the other team. The players must work together to prevent the ball from hitting the ground. The game requires quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination.
The competition heats up as each team makes strategic moves to outwit the other. The game fosters teamwork, as players must coordinate their movements and communicate effectively to prevent the ball from hitting the ground. It's not just about quick reflexes and good hand-eye coordination - strategy plays a significant role too. Do you attempt a risky move to catch your opponents off guard, or do you play it safe and maintain a steady defense? These are the decisions you'll have to make in the heat of the game. Spikeball isn't just a competitive exercise, but a test of camaraderie and resilience. Regardless of whether you win or lose, the shared experience of playing Spikeball brings friends closer together, making for a memorable day out in the backyard.
Horseshoes
Horseshoes is a traditional backyard game that has stood the test of time, offering a mix of skill, luck, and a good dose of fun. This game involves players tossing horseshoes at stakes in the ground, which are set up in a sandbox area. The objective is to 'ring' the stake or land your horseshoe as close to the stake as possible. The player or team that reaches a predetermined points total first, often 21, is declared the winner. While it might seem simple, horseshoes requires precision and strategy, making it an engaging game for all ages. It's also an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in some friendly competition in their backyard.
Ladderball
Ladderball is another fantastic game that adds a fun twist to your backyard activities. It's played with a ladder and bolas, which are two balls connected by a string. Each rung on the ladder has a specific point value, and the aim is to throw the bolas in such a way that they wrap around one of the rungs. Players take turns throwing their bolas, and the first person or team to reach exactly 21 points wins. Remember, you must hit exactly 21 points; any score that goes over brings your total back to 15, adding an exciting strategic element to the game. Ladderball is easy to learn, yet requires precision and a good throwing arm, making it a great game for everyone to enjoy.
Get Your Friends & Start Playing
There you have it, some of the most popular backyard games that are sure to bring out your competitive spirit. These games are not just fun, but they are also a great way to bond with your family and friends. So, get ready to dust off the cornhole boards and let the games begin!