The game of cornhole is a backyard staple, known for its simple rules and broad appeal. Whether you're at a tailgate, a family reunion, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon, this classic game brings people together. At Skip's Garage, we believe that the best products come from a place of passion and expertise. We put time and attention into every cornhole set we build, ensuring you get the absolute best product, 100% of the time. This guide will walk you through the cornhole game rules, so you can start playing with confidence.
Understanding the fundamentals is the first step to mastering any game. Cornhole is no different. The objective is straightforward: players take turns tossing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole. The game's charm lies in its simplicity, making it accessible to everyone, from young children to seasoned adults. Our commitment at Skip's Garage is to provide a product that enhances this experience. We craft every board from high-quality materials to ensure a perfect playing surface, so you can focus on the fun.
Getting Started: The Setup
Before you can begin playing, you need to set up the cornhole court. The setup is a critical part of the game, as it ensures fairness and consistency. Place the two cornhole boards on a flat surface, directly facing each other. The front edges of the boards should be twenty-seven feet apart. For younger players or those looking for a more casual game, you can shorten this distance. A common adjustment is to set the boards twenty-one feet apart for junior players.
The game uses eight bean bags in total. There should be two sets of four bags, each in a different color. One team will use one color, and the opposing team will use the other. Each bag should be 6 inches by 6 inches and weigh approximately 1 pound. At Skip's Garage, we offer high-quality bags that meet these specifications, ensuring a consistent, enjoyable playing experience.
Understanding the Gameplay
Cornhole can be played with either two players in a singles match or four players in a doubles match. In a doubles game, teammates stand at opposite boards. For example, one player from Team A and one player from Team B will stand next to the same board. Their teammates will be at the other end.
All players will throw from the pitcher's box, which is the area to the side of the cornhole board. Players mustn't step in front of the board when they throw. A throw made with a foot over the front edge of the board is considered a foul, and the bag is removed from play.
An inning is complete when all eight bags have been thrown, four by each team. The players at a board will alternate throws until each player has thrown all four of their bags. Then, the score for that inning is calculated, and the players at the other end begin their turn.
How Scoring Works
The scoring system for cornhole is simple and is a key part of the cornhole game rules. A bag that lands on the board and stays there is worth one point. This is often called a "woody." A bag that goes through the hole is worth three points, known as a "cornhole."
The game uses cancellation scoring. This means that at the end of each inning, the scores of each team are compared. Only one team can score per inning. For example, if Team A scores five points and Team B scores three points, Team A will be awarded two points for that inning. If both teams score the same number of points, no points are awarded, and the inning is a wash.
A bag that hits the ground before landing on the board is considered a foul and must be removed from the playing surface immediately. Likewise, a bag that is touching the ground while also on the board does not count for any points.
The game continues until one team reaches or exceeds twenty-one points at the conclusion of an inning. There is no need to win by two points. The first team to reach twenty-one wins the game.
Key Rules to Remember
To ensure a smooth and fair game, there are a few important rules to keep in mind. Players must throw from within the pitcher's box and not step over the foul line, which is the front edge of the board. All eight bags must be thrown to complete an inning before the score is tallied.
The team that scored in the previous inning throws first in the next inning. If no team scored, the team that threw first in the last inning will throw first again. This maintains a consistent flow and gives both teams a fair chance to take the lead.
At Skip's Garage, we are the perfect choice for anyone looking for custom cornhole boards. Our years of experience and top-notch craftsmanship result in an unbeatable product. We personally guarantee your satisfaction with every purchase because we believe our relationship with you is just beginning when you buy our product.
Become a Backyard Champion
Now that you understand the cornhole game rules, you are ready to start playing. Cornhole is a game of skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck. With practice, you'll soon be sinking cornholes and leading your team to victory. It's a game that offers endless entertainment for any gathering.
We believe that providing a high-quality product is just as important as providing excellent service. Compare our standard features to any other manufacturer, and you will see the value we offer. We are committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction and providing support throughout your product's lifetime. Gather your friends and family, set up your boards, and enjoy the timeless fun of cornhole.
