If you play casual rounds at the same course often, things can start to feel repetitive. One of my favorite ways to keep it fresh is by switching up the rules. Whether you’re playing with a group of friends or trying to spice up league night, these disc golf game variations bring new challenges, laughs, and rivalries. Most of these aren’t PDGA-approved — but that’s kind of the point.
Competitive Game Variations
Bag Raid
Play standard stroke rules, but the winner of each hole gets to steal a disc from another player’s bag — or return one previously taken. Stolen discs stay out of play until they’re earned back. Great for chaotic energy.
Bingo Bango Bongo
Three points per hole: one for longest drive (Bingo), one for closest approach (Bango), and one for holing out first (Bongo). Players must throw in order from farthest to closest to keep it fair.
Match Play
Play head-to-head — each hole is worth one point. Win the hole, win the point. Ties get nothing. Most points at the end wins. This format works well for 1v1 or 2v2 matches.
Skins
Each hole is worth a “skin,” which can be a point, snack, or even a small cash prize. Win the hole outright to claim it — if there’s a tie, the skin rolls over to the next hole. Stakes add up fast.
Scratch Play
Strokes are replaced with points: Bogey = 0, Par = 1, Birdie = 2, Eagle = 5. But there’s a twist — two bogeys in a row wipes all your points. It’s high risk, high reward.
Shootout
After each hole, the player with the worst score is eliminated. Use closest to pin or longest putt for tiebreakers. Best with 4 or more players. The last player standing wins.
Fun & Casual Variations (Not Exactly PDGA Approved)
Barkie
Every tree hit earns a “barkie” point. Subtract your total barkies from your final score. Suddenly, that bad kick might be working in your favor.
Bizarro Golf
Assign a weird rule to each hole: throw with your off-hand, rollers only, forehands only, or swap bags with someone. Make up rules ahead of time or pick randomly each hole.
Drink Up
The worst score on each hole takes a drink. Add more for OBs, trees, or water hazards. Great for evening rounds — just play responsibly.
Sorry, Dude
Each player gets 2–3 “cancels.” At any time, call “Sorry, dude!” and force a re-throw. Use them wisely — timing makes all the difference.
Safari
Redesign the course as you go. The player with honors creates a new hole from any tee to any basket. Just be safe and watch for other players.
Ript Revenge
Ript Revenge is a card game that adds wild challenges to your round. Cards can force trick shots, bag swaps, or random restrictions. It’s a great way to make any round unpredictable.
Random Disc
All players throw one disc into a pile and draw blind. Whatever you draw is your disc for that hole. A fun way to challenge your shot shaping.
Throw ’Em All
You must throw every disc in your bag once before reusing any. After all are thrown, you “unlock” the bag. Some versions allow unlimited putter use — your call.
Game Variations Best for Doubles or Groups
Piggyback
After tee shots, players may choose to throw from another player’s lie. Each lie can only be used once per round. It’s all about timing and trust.
Nomination
Before each throw, nominate 2–3 discs from your bag. Your opponent chooses which one you must use. Adds strategy and plenty of playful sabotage.
Disc Steal
Everyone starts with the same number of discs. Win a hole, steal a disc. Lose all your discs and you’re out. Works great with smaller starter bags like those found in our starter sets.
Hate ’Em
Each player picks a few “hate” holes before the round. On those holes, you automatically record par — no matter what you shoot. It’s a great way to survive those frustrating layouts.
Worst Shot
Ideal for doubles. Both players throw, but you must play from the worst of the two lies. Works especially well on wooded courses. For balance, try alternating holes with Best Shot.
Give Your Casual Rounds a Boost
Whether you’re playing for bragging rights, a snack stash, or pure entertainment, these disc golf game variations can make your rounds way more memorable. Try one or two with your group and see which ones become regulars in your rotation.
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