In the popular college drinking game Beirut, also known as beer pong, participants compete in an entertaining and competitive manner. The game involves throwing ping-pong balls across a table with the aim of landing them into cups of beer arranged in a pyramid shape on both sides. As the game progresses, players consume the beer from the cups as they get sunk. Let’s delve into the rules and mechanics of this thrilling party game.
Setting Up the Game
To get started, prepare a table large enough to accommodate the pyramid of cups on each side. Gather ten cups for each team and arrange them in a triangle shape, with one cup at the top, two cups in the row beneath, and so on, until you have a total of four rows.
Team Composition
Beirut is typically played as a team game, with each team consisting of two players. The teams stand at opposite ends of the table, facing each other, ready to take turns throwing the ping-pong ball.
Objective of the Game
The main goal of Beirut is to sink the ping-pong ball into one of the opponent’s cups, causing them to consume the beer. The team that successfully eliminates all of the cups on the other side emerges as the winner.
Starting the Game
The game begins with a simple coin toss to determine which team goes first. The team that wins the toss gets the first chance to throw the ping-pong ball. The players take turns, throwing one ball per turn, until the game concludes.
Throwing the Ball
When it’s your turn to throw, you can toss the ping-pong ball using any throwing technique you prefer. The ball must be thrown from behind the edge of the table towards the cups on the other side. Aim carefully and try to land the ball into one of the cups.
Sinking a Ball
If the ball successfully lands in an opponent’s cup, they must drink the beer within that cup. It is important to note that if the ball bounces off the table or hits any other objects before landing in a cup, it does not count as a successful shot and the player gets another chance.
Removing Sunk Cups
As the game progresses, cups that have been sunk by the opposing team are removed from play. The cups are taken out of the pyramid and are no longer targets for the remaining throws.
Bounces and Rebounds
In some variations of Beirut, players may attempt to bounce the ball off the table before it lands in a cup, causing additional challenges for the opposing team. Bounces and rebounds can add an exciting element to the game, testing both accuracy and reaction time.
Gameplay Etiquette
In the spirit of fair play, participants are expected to maintain good sportsmanship during the game. It is important to avoid excessive celebration or taunting when scoring, as this can dampen the fun for all involved. Remember, the game is about entertainment and friendly competition.
Alternate Rules and Variations
While the basic rules outlined above are widely followed, it’s worth noting that Beirut has various regional and personal variations. Some players may introduce house rules, such as additional challenging throws or extra cups for bonus points. It’s always a good idea to clarify the specific rules before starting a game with new opponents.
Enjoy Responsibly
As with any drinking game, it is crucial to prioritize responsible consumption of alcohol. Beirut can be enjoyed within appropriate limits, ensuring everyone stays safe and has a great time while playing.
