Looking for a fun, fast-paced drinking game to liven up your party? Pong Shot is the perfect blend of skill, excitement, and social interaction. Similar to the classic Beer Pong, Pong Shot introduces its own twist, requiring precise aim and a competitive spirit. Here’s everything you need to know to set up and enjoy Pong Shot like a pro.
What is Pong Shot?
Pong Shot is a variation of traditional beer pong, with a focus on speed and accuracy. Players take turns aiming ping pong balls into cups arranged in a specific formation. Each successful shot means the opposing team must drink, with the ultimate goal of eliminating all of their cups before they eliminate yours. The simplicity of the game combined with its competitive nature makes it a hit for any gathering.
Equipment Needed:
To play Pong Shot, you’ll need the following:
- Table: A flat, sturdy surface. A standard 8-foot beer pong table works best, but any table can do.
- Cups: At least 6 cups per side, although 10 is standard for full-length games.
- Ping Pong Balls: 2-4 balls, depending on the number of players.
- Beverages: Fill the cups with your drink of choice (beer, soda, water, etc.).
- Rinse Cup: A cup of water for cleaning the balls between shots.
How to Set Up Pong Shot
- Arrange the Cups:
- Set up 6 to 10 cups in a triangular formation at each end of the table (a pyramid shape with 4 cups in the back row, 3 in the next, and so on).
- Fill the Cups:
- Pour your chosen beverage into each cup, filling them about a quarter or a third full.
- Prepare the Table:
- Place the cups at least an inch from the table’s edge to prevent spills and leave enough space for bouncing shots.
- Set Up Rinse Cups:
- Place a separate cup of clean water near each team to rinse the balls between throws.
- Divide into Teams:
- Pong Shot is typically played in teams of two, though it can also be a one-on-one game.
- Set the Shooting Line:
- Establish a clear shooting distance by marking the table or agreeing on boundaries.
How to Play Pong Shot
- Decide Who Goes First:
- Use a coin flip or play a quick round of “shoot-off” where each team tries to make a cup first.
- Take Turns Shooting:
- Players stand behind their end of the table and take turns tossing or bouncing the ping pong ball, trying to land it into the opposing team’s cups.
- Drinking Rules:
- When a ball lands in a cup, the opposing team must remove the cup and drink its contents.
- Winning the Game:
- The first team to eliminate all the opposing team’s cups wins!
Variations and Custom Rules for Pong Shot
- Bounce Shots Worth Two: If a player bounces the ball into a cup, it counts as two cups removed. However, the opposing team can swat the ball away after it bounces.
- Re-Racks: Allow each team one or two re-racks per game to rearrange their remaining cups into a tighter formation.
- “Island” Rule: If one cup is left isolated, a player can call “island” and aim specifically for it. If they make it, it counts for two cups.
- Shoot Until You Miss: Players continue shooting as long as they make cups in one turn.
- Celebrity Shot: Invite someone not currently playing to take a shot for your team during a key moment.
- Death Cup: If a ball lands in a cup that hasn’t been finished yet, the player must immediately chug the entire drink.
- Trick Shot Challenges: Add style points for creative shots like behind-the-back or off-the-wall bounces.
- Redemption Round: When a team’s final cup is hit, they get one chance to tie by sinking all their remaining cups.
