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Let’s be honest: bars are more fun when there's friendly competition involved. Whether you're tossing darts or flipping beer caps, bar games have been around for centuries — uniting strangers, starting rivalries, and making drinks go down smoother. But beyond the classics like pool or foosball, there’s a whole world of quirky, exciting, and downright strange bar games waiting to be explored.
From Tokyo to Texas, here are some global bar games you and your gang absolutely need to try. Game night just got an international upgrade.
What it is: A traditional German game that literally involves hammers and nails — played at beer halls, especially during Oktoberfest.
How to play: Each player tries to hammer a nail into a tree stump using the wedge-end of a hammer. One strike per turn. The first person to fully sink their nail wins.
Why it’s awesome: It’s primal. It’s loud. And it gets way harder after a pint of lager.
Pro tip: Known as Nagelbalken in some regions, it’s best played sober-ish — for safety (and pride).
What it is: A pub staple in the UK, this game is all about tossing coins (called “toads”) into a small hole on a raised lead-topped table.
How to play: Each player tosses four brass coins from a set distance. The hole scores 2 points; hitting the table scores 1. First to 31 wins — but you must land exactly on 31.
Why it’s awesome: It’s deceptively hard and gets hilariously competitive, especially in old pubs across Sussex or Kent.
What it is: This tailgating legend is now a staple in bars across the U.S.
How to play: Players toss bean bags at a raised platform with a hole at one end. Land it on the board for 1 point, in the hole for 3. First to 21 wins.
Why it’s awesome: It’s oddly satisfying. Plus, there’s a National Cornhole League. Yes, it’s that serious.
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What it is: This carrom board game is popular in Indian homes and dive bars. Think of it as table shuffleboard meets pool, minus the cues.
How to play: Players flick a “striker” disk to knock lighter tokens (called “carrom men”) into pockets. Pocket the queen (red disk) and cover it with your next shot to score.
Why it’s awesome: Simple rules, addictive gameplay. And every Indian uncle thinks he’s a champion.
What it is: France’s answer to bocce ball, played in parks and some bar patios (especially in Marseille and Paris).
How to play: Toss your metal balls as close as possible to the small wooden target ball (cochonnet). Closer balls score. Wine optional, but highly encouraged.
Why it’s awesome: Suits chill drinkers who love slow games and plenty of banter.
What it is: An American college party classic that’s invaded bar trivia nights everywhere.
How to play: Teams race to chug from a plastic cup and then flip it upside down by flicking the rim. Relay-style madness ensues.
Why it’s awesome: It’s chaotic, fast-paced, and always ends in laughing fits (or spilled drinks).
What it is: This bar game involves flipping beer coasters (called bierdeckels) into mugs or cups.
How to play: Each player tries to flip their coaster from the edge of the table into a glass. Points are scored based on successful shots.
Why it’s awesome: Sounds silly. Is silly. But also surprisingly addictive. Bonus: You don’t need much equipment.
What it is: The national sport of Colombia… that involves explosives. Yes, you read that right.
How to play: Players toss metal disks (tejos) at a clay-filled board that has small packets of gunpowder. Hit them just right, and boom — instant fireworks.
Why it’s awesome: It’s thrilling and loud. Most tejo courts also serve cheap beer, because of course they do.
Note: Only play in authorized venues. No DIY versions at home, please.
What it is: Known locally as the "Bimini Ring Game", this simple game is found at tiki bars in the Bahamas and Jamaica.
How to play: A metal ring hangs from a string and must be swung to land on a hook mounted to a wall or post. Sounds easy. It's not.
Why it’s awesome: No setup required, endless fun. And every successful toss feels like a mini victory.
What it is: You know Jenga. But bars around the world — from Bali to Berlin — have made it boozy.
How to play: Each block has a dare, question, or rule written on it. Pull one, do what it says, and try not to be the one who brings the tower down.
Why it’s awesome: Takes a childhood classic and turns it into an icebreaker, drinking game, and anxiety-fest — all in one.
Whether you’re throwing metal discs at gunpowder or casually flipping plastic cups, bar games from around the world bring people together — often with hilarious, unforgettable results. So next time you're out with your friends, ditch the usual darts or karaoke and challenge each other to a global bar games night. Who knows? You might discover a new go-to or start your own friendly rivalry over Toad in the Hole.
Just remember: play fair, play safe… and maybe finish your drink after you swing the hammer.
