1v1 Beer Pong Rules: How to Play One-on-One
In 1v1 beer pong, each player takes both shots every turn, gets one re-rack per game instead of two, and earns balls back by making both of their own shots. Everything else is the regular game. No partner to blame, no partner to carry you. It’s the purest form of beer pong, and the fastest way to find out who’s actually good.
Setup
- Cups: 10 per side in a 4-3-2-1 triangle, or 6 for a quick game (see 6 cup rules).
- Balls: two. You shoot both.
- Who goes first: eye to eye, same as always.
How 1v1 changes the rules
| Rule | 2v2 | 1v1 |
|---|---|---|
| Shots per turn | One each | Both shots are yours |
| Re-racks | Two per team | One per player |
| Balls back | Both teammates make it | You make both of your shots |
| Same cup | Both balls in one cup | Both your balls in one cup: pull 3, balls back, and you’re heating up |
| Island | One call per player | One call per player |
| Redemption | Each player shoots until they miss | You shoot until you miss |
Tips for 1v1
- Rhythm matters more. You take both shots back to back, so find your arc on shot one and repeat it.
- Save your re-rack. You only get one. Spend it on the last three or four cups.
- Nobody covers for you on defense. Watch every bounce.
- Get your reps in with our practice drills.
FAQ
How many shots do you get in 1v1 beer pong?
Two per turn. You shoot both balls.
How many re-racks in 1v1?
One per player per game, at most houses, plus the last cup can always be centered.
Do you get balls back in 1v1?
Yes. Make both of your shots in the same turn and you shoot again.
Other ways to play: 3 players · 3v3 · 6 cup · Civil War. The full game is in our rules of beer pong.
Pick your house rules for any format with the house rules builder.