Best 5 Person Golf Games

Golfing with five players can be a challenge when traditional foursomes are the norm. But with the right formats, a fivesome can be just as competitive and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for team-based games or individual challenges, there are plenty of options. This article covers the best 5 person golf games, what to consider before choosing one, and how to set up a round that keeps everyone engaged.

Why 5 Person Golf Games Are a Great Option

A standard golf group is four players, but sometimes you end up with an extra friend or family member. Instead of splitting into two groups, you can keep the group together with a game designed for five. These games often involve rotating partners or unique scoring systems that level the field. They also speed up play compared to waiting for a twosome and a threesome. Plus, they add variety to your regular rounds.

Top 5 Person Golf Game Formats

Here are some of the most popular golf games for five players. Each has its own rules and can be adapted to your group’s skill level.

Wolf (Five-Player Version) Wolf is a classic game that works well with five. Each hole, one player is the “Wolf.” After teeing off, the Wolf decides whether to go alone against the other four or pick a partner. If the Wolf picks a partner, the team competes against the remaining three. Scoring is based on net best ball or total team score. The Wolf can also choose to “hunt” alone, which doubles the points at stake. This format requires strategy and keeps everyone involved.

Vegas (Five-Player Version) Vegas is a two-man team game, but with five players you can rotate partners. For example, on the first hole, players 1 and 2 team up against players 3 and 4, with player 5 as the “banker.” The banker bets on one team and their score is added to the winning team’s result. Each hole, partners rotate so everyone plays with everyone else. Scoring uses the combined net score of partners (digits combined, not summed). This game is fast-paced and rewarding.

Bingo Bango Bongo (Five-Player Adaptation) Bingo Bango Bongo is a point game where players compete on each hole for three awards: first on the green (Bingo), closest to the pin once all are on (Bango), and first in the hole (Bongo). With five players, you can still award points per category. This game neutralizes handicap differences and encourages fast play. It’s simple to track and works well with odd numbers.

Alternate Shot Variations For five players, you can create two teams of two with a single player rotating as a “floater.” The floater plays the same ball as one of the teams on each hole, or plays their own ball against the two teams. Another option is a three-person team versus a two-person team, with the larger team using net best ball and the smaller team using combined net. Rotate teams every few holes to keep it fair.

Cha-Cha-Cha This game involves rotating partners every three holes. With five players, you can have a predetermined partner rotation so each player partners with everyone else at least once. Scoring is simple: after each three-hole round, the low combined net score of the two partners wins points. This keeps the group social and competitive.

What to Consider Before Choosing a 5 Person Golf Game

Before settling on a game, think about your group’s preferences and skill levels. Here are key factors:

• —Handicap Differences: If players have widely varying abilities, choose games that use net scoring or allow for strokes. Wolf and Bingo Bango Bongo work well because they reward different skills. Avoid games that heavily favor long hitters if the group is mixed.
• —Pace of Play: Five players can slow down the course. Choose a game that keeps players moving. Games like Wolf require decision-making but don’t add extra shots. Simpler games like Bingo Bango Bongo or Cha-Cha-Cha are faster.
• —Competitiveness: Some groups want serious competition; others prefer fun. Vegas and Wolf can get intense, while Bingo Bango Bongo is lighter. Make sure everyone agrees on the desired vibe.
• —Partner Rotation: With an odd number, ensure partners rotate so no one feels left out. Games that have a floating player or rotating teams are best. Plan the rotation in advance to avoid confusion.
• —Scoring Complexity: Games that require math or record-keeping can drag down pace. Choose a game your group can recall easily. Consider using a scorecard app or simple paper tracking.
• —Course Rules: Some courses restrict group size to four. Check with the pro shop before heading out. If allowed, be aware of other groups behind you; you may need to let faster groups play through.

Tips for Organizing a 5 Player Round

To ensure a smooth round, communicate before you tee off. Establish the game, scoring system, and any special rules. Use a consistent method for tracking scores, like a notes app or a physical scorecard. If using handicaps, agree on how many strokes each player gets and adjust per hole. Keep the pace up – having an extra player means more time on the green. Encourage players to be ready when it’s their turn. If you’re on a busy course, consider playing ready golf rather than strict order. Finally, keep the atmosphere light. The goal is enjoyment for all five players.

FAQ

What is the best golf game for 5 players if we want maximum fun? For a balance of fun and competition, try Wolf. It involves strategy and allows players to choose partners, making each hole unpredictable. Bingo Bango Bongo is another great choice because it rewards different skills and keeps everyone engaged without complex math.

Can we play 5 person golf games at any golf course? Most courses allow groups of five, but some restrict group size to four. Always check with the course beforehand. If allowed, be considerate of pace and let faster groups play through. Some courses may require you to book as two groups, but you can combine once on the course.

How do we handle handicaps in a 5 player golf game? Use each player’s course handicap or adjust for the game. In net score games, apply strokes based on hole rating (usually the most difficult holes). For games like Wolf, the Wolf can give strokes to weaker players before making decisions. Agree on handicap adjustments before the round to avoid disputes.

In conclusion, 5 person golf games offer a great way to keep the group together and add variety to your round. Whether you choose Wolf, Vegas, Bingo Bango Bongo, or a custom variation, the key is communication and keeping the pace. Next time you have a fivesome, try one of these formats and enjoy a memorable game.