Shuffle Boards

Shuffleboards are something that used to be in taverns all the time. Today, they are starting to make a serious comeback as patrons are beginning to appreciate the skill it takes to play this wonderful game. Of course, this is not the shuffleboard game that looks like a bowling alley, but the "long board" that is a true test of skill.

Here are a few games to introduce to the local crowd:

Twenty One-this is a very basic game that anyone can play. The object is to get to 21 before your opponent. Players will throw to see who holds the "hammer" for the first round. Players rotate turns attempting to either knock off their opponent or go deeper into the scoring zone. Only the furthers pucks past the furthers opponent puck counts for scoring. Hammer goes to the player that does not score.

Another great Shuffle Board game is Horse Collar. This game is played to 51 and has a few twists involved. Each side uses four pucks of one color and one of the other color. The different colored puck is the multiplier (some establishments do not use the multiplier). Pucks can be thrown in any order, but the multiplier must be kept on the board for the score to count. The teams score is multiplied by whatever zone the puck lands. The team must also throw at least one puck in the three-zone to have a valid score. Hangers (pucks that are over the far edge but not off the board) are worth 13 points. Some establishment also allow Corners, which is when the puck is over both the end and side. Corners are worth 26 points.

Three Strikes-this is a great game to play when there are a lot of people that want to play. Put everyone's name up on the board. Each player shoots four pucks, adding up their total score. They must beat the player who shot before them or they get a strike. Ties are also strikes. Last man standing take the prize!

Shuffleboards are beginning to pop up all over the country and they offer quite a bit of fun. Whether playing them at home or at the local tap room, shuffle board offers a true game of skill in an age where every bar game seems to be electronic. Give them a try and it will surely become one of your favorite games to play.