Skittles Bowling Yard Game Rules

Before the Game

Arrange the wooden pins in the pattern shown below, preferably on a hard surface.
The Kingpin (red pin) is placed in the centre.
The pins should be approx. 30cm from each other.
The backyard court can be as long as you feel comfortable, but the official length is 8.23m.

Start the Game

Decide who starts the game.
Players take turns rolling the balls at the pins in one turn. The balls must be rolled the length of the court and not thrown or bounced.
After each throw any pins felled are removed from the playing area.
Points can only be scored if the Kingpin (red pin) has fallen, and points scored are based on the number of pins knocked down. For example, if a player knocks over 8 pins after their 3 throws but they fail to knock over the Kingpin, they score 0 points.
If the first or second throw is a strike where there are no pins left standing, they are all reset and the player continues with their throws.
The maximum score in one turn is 27 (i.e. 3 strikes).
The game continues with players taking turns until a predetermined number of rounds (usually 6) is completed.

End the Game

The game ends after a predetermined number of rounds (usually 6).
The player/team who manager to score the most points wins.

Parts List

8 x pins
1 x kingpin
3 x balls

Drinking Game Ideas

Tipsy Skittles

Set up the game as usual, with the Kingpin placed in the centre and the wooden pins arranged in the shown pattern.
Each player takes turns throwing the 3 balls at the pins with their non-dominant hand, aiming to knock down as many as possible.
Knocking down a regular pins is worth 1 point, and the Kingpin is worth 5 points.
After each throw any pins felled are removed from the playing area.
If the first or second throw is a strike where there are no pins left standing, they are all reset and the player continues with their throws.
The maximum score in one turn is 39 (scoring 8 points for knocking over all the regular pins plus 5 for the Kingpin, and doing this with all 3 balls in their turn).
After each round (after all players have taken their turns), the player with the lowest score takes a drink. If there's a tie for the lowest score, all tied players take a drink.
The game continues with players taking turns until a predetermined number of rounds (usually 6) is completed.

Tipsy Topplers

Set up the game as usual, with the Kingpin placed in the centre and the wooden pins arranged in the shown pattern.
Each player takes turns throwing the 3 balls at the pins with their non-dominant hand, aiming to knock down as many as possible.
Knocking down a regular pins is worth 1 point, and the Kingpin is worth 5 points.
After each throw any pins felled are removed from the playing area.
The maximum score in one turn is 39 (scoring 8 points for knocking over all the regular pins plus 5 for the Kingpin, and doing this with all 3 balls in their turn).
After each round (after all players have taken their turns), the player with the lowest score takes a drink. If there's a tie for the lowest score, all tied players take a drink.
At the end of each round, players compare their scores.
The player with the highest score becomes the "Toppler" and can make a rule that everyone must follow until the next player becomes the Toppler (i.e. all other players need to take a shot of vodka, whether they like the drink or not, or they need to drink a yucky mixed drink like whisky with white wine, etc).
Players can choose to double their points for that round by taking a shot before their turn. If they succeed in knocking down pins, their points are doubled. If they fail, they follow the "Toppler's" rules.
The game continues with players taking turns until a predetermined number of rounds (usually 6) is completed.

Remember to play responsibly and adjust the rules to suit the dynamics of your group. Cheers!

Warning: Drink Responsibly

Drinking games and socialising with alcohol can be enjoyable, but it's crucial to approach them with responsibility and awareness. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health risks, impaired judgment, and adverse consequences. Here are some key points to consider:

Know Your Limits: Understand your tolerance for alcohol and recognise when you've had enough. Consuming excessive amounts can lead to alcohol poisoning and other health issues.

Stay Hydrated: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can intensify the effects of alcohol, leading to quicker intoxication.

Mindful Pace: Pace yourself while playing drinking games. Sipping slowly allows you to enjoy the experience without overwhelming your system.

Plan Transportation: If you've been drinking, arrange for a designated driver, use public transportation, or use rideshare services. Never drink and drive.

Respect Others: Be aware of how your drinking might affect those around you. Encourage a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.

Know the Rules: Understand the rules of any drinking game you're playing, and make sure everyone involved is comfortable with the level of alcohol consumption.

Eat Before Drinking: Consuming food before drinking can help slow down alcohol absorption and mitigate its effects.

Monitor Peer Pressure: Don't succumb to peer pressure. It's okay to decline a drink or set your own pace. Respect others' decisions regarding alcohol consumption.

Please note that we provide these rules for entertainment purposes, and we promote responsible drinking. We are not responsible for any actions or consequences resulting from excessive alcohol consumption. Always prioritise your well-being and the well-being of those around you.

Remember, the goal is to have fun and socialise responsibly. If you or someone else shows signs of alcohol-related distress, seek help immediately. Cheers to a safe and enjoyable time!