The Ultimate Guide to Cornhole: A Game of Fun and Skill
Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a classic outdoor game that has gained immense popularity for its simple yet entertaining gameplay. It has seemed to explode again even in the past few years with a new fire! Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue, a tailgate party, or a family gathering, Cornhole is a fantastic addition that promises hours of fun for everyone involved. Cornhole at weddings has even become an incredibly common entertainment option! Below we’ll walk you through the game, from setup to rules and playing options. This seems to be a great option if you are looking for a good set of cornhole boards to purchase.
- Time to Set Up: One of the reasons Cornhole is so beloved is its ease of setup. It takes just a few minutes to get everything ready for a game. All you need are two Cornhole boards and eight Cornhole bags (four of one color, four of another). Storage is also incredibly easy because of the design, and our favorite Cornhole set even has velcro to stick the two boards together, with the bags stored in the middle.
- Duration of Game: Cornhole strikes a perfect balance between being engaging and not overly time-consuming. On average, a single game of Cornhole takes around 15 to 20 minutes to complete. This makes it an ideal option for both quick matches and tournament play.
- Number of Players That Are Needed/Can Participate: Cornhole is incredibly versatile when it comes to the number of players. It can be enjoyed one-on-one or in teams of two, making it suitable for intimate gatherings as well as larger events. With its flexible player requirements, Cornhole ensures that everyone can join in the excitement.
- Where Can It Be Played? One of the beauties of Cornhole is its adaptability to various settings. It can be played practically anywhere there’s open space – your backyard, the park, the beach, and even indoor venues like a gym or indoor court, etc. You can basically take the game wherever you go.
How to Play:
- Setting Up: Place the two Cornhole boards around 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge. Each board should be facing each other. We typically just walk it off between the two with a rough estimate, though feel free to bust out the tape measure if you have some particular competitors!
- Scoring: Cornhole is all about aiming for the hole on the board. A bag in the hole earns you 3 points, while a bag on the board, but not in the hole, gets you 1 point.
- Taking Turns: Players take turns throwing bags at the opposite board. Once all eight bags have been thrown, tally the points for each team.
- Cancellation Scoring: Only one team can score in each inning. This is where strategy comes into play – if Team A scores 5 points and Team B scores 3 points, Team A’s score for that round is 2 points (5 – 3 = 2).
- Winning: The game typically goes up to 21 points, but players can decide on a different target score. The first team to reach the decided-upon score is declared the winner. There are variations you can play here as well. If you “break” (go over 21), you can have this team go back down to 12. It elongates play and creates a need to strategize to get immediately the 21 needed to win.
Cornhole is a game that effortlessly combines friendly competition with the joy of spending time outdoors. Its simple setup, quick gameplay, and adaptability make it a fantastic choice for gatherings of all sizes. Whether you’re a seasoned Cornhole player or just starting, the game’s universal appeal promises hours of laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments. So, gather your friends and family, set up those boards, and let the bean bags fly!
Total Game Score: 18
Ease of Storage/Portability for Cornhole:
Score = 5. One of the standout features of Cornhole is its remarkable ease of storage and portability. Most Cornhole board sets are designed to be foldable, allowing them to take up minimal space when not in use. This foldability ensures that you can effortlessly store the game in your garage, closet, or even the trunk of your car. Some sets even come with carrying handles for added convenience, making it a breeze to transport the game to picnics, camping trips, and social gatherings.
Cornhole Durability (Packaging or Game Pieces):
Score = 4. Cornhole manufacturers recognize the importance of durability, considering the game’s popularity and the wear and tear it may endure. Board sets are commonly crafted from sturdy materials like wood, plastic, or composite materials, ensuring they can withstand outdoor conditions and repeated use. The game pieces – the Cornhole bags – are typically made from heavy-duty fabric, often with double stitching for extra resilience. Many manufacturers also offer weather-resistant options, providing longevity even in varying climates. Only reason this doesn’t get a perfect score for me is because there is typically discoloration that occurs on well-used sets, and when tons of people have played, the bags almost tend to feel dirty. I wonder how to clean cornhole bags?
Is Cornhole Friendly for All Ages/Skill Levels?
Score = 5. Cornhole’s universal appeal lies in its accessibility to players of all ages and skill levels. Unlike some sports that demand intense physical prowess or specialized techniques, Cornhole is approachable for everyone. Children can enjoy it alongside their grandparents, and novices can compete on an equal footing with experienced players. The basic throwing motion is simple to grasp, allowing newcomers to quickly get the hang of the game. At the same time, seasoned players can hone their skills and enjoy strategic depth, ensuring that every match remains engaging and enjoyable.
Is There a Fairly Priced Cornhole set with Great Reviews?
Score = 4. Cornhole’s affordability is another factor contributing to its widespread popularity. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly set for casual play or a more premium option for serious competitions, there are options available to suit various price points. This inclusivity in pricing ensures that Cornhole remains accessible to a wide range of individuals, further contributing to its status as a beloved backyard and social activity. Again, reason it’s not a 5 for us here, is that the lower the quality, isn’t as durable (which tends to be the cheaper versions of cornhole). The more expensive, the better, but then it’s getting out of some people’s price range. This seems to be a fair-priced cornhole set with great reviews.
In conclusion, Cornhole stands out not only for its entertaining gameplay but also for its practicality, durability, inclusivity, and affordability. Its foldable design, durable materials, adaptability to all ages and skill levels, and reasonable pricing have all contributed to making Cornhole a game that brings people together and guarantees endless hours of fun, whether you’re playing in your backyard, at a park, or during a lively tailgate party.
Backyard Buffs 