Remember those intense battles of sinking your opponent’s ships in the classic game Battleship? Now imagine that but with shots of your favorite drink – welcome to Battleshots, the ultimate party drinking game! Let’s dive into the details on how you can set it up, learn the rules, and even DIY your own board for some epic game nights.
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What is Battleshots Drinking Game?
Battleshots drinking game is a boozy twist on the childhood favorite Battleship, where instead of ships getting “sunk,” your shot glass fleets get taken down! The objective is the same: sink all your opponent’s ships (or in this case, shots) by calling out coordinates, just like in the original game. Every time your opponent hits one of your shots, you drink, making it a strategic (and slightly tipsy) competition. It’s become a hit at college parties, bachelor and bachelorette bashes, and any event where people are up for a laugh and a challenge. It’s a game that tests your ability to stay sharp even as you down shots.
The game’s popularity stems from its simplicity and the fact that you don’t need much to play – just some shot glasses, a game board, and your beverage of choice. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, letting players bring their own flair to the board and the rules. Get ready to sink (and drink) your way to victory!
How to Play Battleshots
Playing Battleshots is easy, but it’s the twists and turns of your buzzed brain trying to think straight that make it even more fun. Here’s how to play:
Step 1: Setup
- Draw or tape a grid onto your playing surface (5×5 or 6×6 is typical).
- Mark coordinates on the horizontal (A, B, C, etc.) and vertical (1, 2, 3, etc.) axes, just like the original Battleship.
- Place your “ships” (shot glasses filled with your chosen drink) on your grid without revealing their locations to your opponent. You can choose between 3-5 shot glasses, depending on how long (or wild) you want the game to be.
Step 2: Gameplay
- Players take turns calling out grid coordinates (e.g., B3) to target their opponent’s shots.
- If you hit an opponent’s shot glass, they have to drink it.
- The first player to sink all their opponent’s shots wins the game.
Step 3: Extra Tips
- For larger groups, divide into teams, where each team controls a fleet of shots.
- Be strategic with your ship placement – scatter them to avoid easy detection.
It’s a fun balance of strategy and luck, mixed with the thrill of not knowing when your next drink might come. Beware, though: As the game progresses, your aim might get a bit shaky!
DIY Battleshots Game Board Setup
Why buy a board when you can make your own? Creating your very own DIY Battleshots game board is half the fun and can be done with just a few household items.
Materials You’ll Need:
- A large board (a cardboard box or corkboard works well).
- Shot glasses (you can find cheap plastic ones at party stores if you’re feeling fancy).
- Tape or markers to create gridlines (use a ruler for precision).
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Create Your Grid: Use tape or a marker to draw a grid on the board. A 5×5 or 6×6 grid is standard, but feel free to get creative with sizes.
- Mark the Coordinates: Label the top of the board with letters (A, B, C, etc.) and the side with numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.).
- Decorate: This is your chance to get creative. Paint or decorate your board with colors or themes (pirate ship, anyone?).
- Place Your Shots: Randomly position your shot glasses (filled, of course) on your side of the board, and let the battle begin.
Custom Board Ideas:
- Use glow-in-the-dark tape for night games.
- Add fun stickers to mark hits and misses.
- Try using a chalkboard for a reusable surface.
Creating a custom Battleshots board lets you take the game to the next level by personalizing it for your group, and you can easily store it for future parties.
Popular Variations of Battleshots
Just when you thought Battleshots couldn’t get more exciting, there are numerous variations that bring even more chaos (and drinks!) to the table.
Minesweeper Battleshots – Avoid the Explosion
- How to Play: Hide “mines” (extra strong shots) on the grid in addition to the regular ships. If a player hits a mine, they must drink a shot of a stronger drink (like whiskey or tequila) immediately. The mines are scattered randomly and players don’t know where they are until one explodes! with the potential for disaster as the mines are explosive (and potent) surprises. You can even Introduce a “detector” mechanic, where players can use their turn to try and avoid mines with a 50/50 guess.
- Why It’s Fun: The fear of landing on a mine makes the game more tense and exciting. Every hit comes with the potential for disaster as the mines are explosive (and potent) surprises.
- Bonus: If you’re a fan of Minesweeper or the classic Battleshots game, you’ll love Pirates Treasure Hunt! This free online puzzle game combines the strategic thrill of Minesweeper with the adventure of a ocean treasure hunt. Set sail and uncover hidden treasures now!
Teleport Battleshots – Where Did My Shots Go?
- How to Play: Players set up their boards as usual, but instead of taking shots when a hit is made, they “teleport” their shot glasses to random locations on the board using a spinner or dice. The twist? Players don’t know where their shots might land next! They might have to down three shots in a row if bad luck strikes.
- Why It’s Fun: The unpredictability of shot locations keeps everyone on their toes and makes for a chaotic game where the board is constantly shifting.
- Bonus: Throw in some teleport “portals” where shots instantly double or vanish altogether!
Volcano Battleshots – Erupting Shots
- How to Play: Set up your shot glasses inside a mini volcano (which you can make with a bowl and some baking soda/vinegar). When a player hits, their shot glass “erupts” with foam or fizz, and they must drink it quickly before the eruption spills everywhere.
- Why It’s Fun: The eruption creates a frantic rush to drink the shot before it spills, adding suspense and surprise to every hit.
- Bonus: Add colored drinks or special “lava” shots (with fizzing candies inside) for an extra eruption effect!
Battle Shots Pizza Box: A Fun Twist on the Classic
For those who love simplicity (and pizza), the Battle Shots Pizza Box variation is a quick and easy way to get the game going. Here’s how you can turn an ordinary pizza box into a fun and portable Battleshots board.
Materials Needed:
- An empty pizza box (bonus points if it still smells like pizza).
- A marker or tape to draw the grid.
- Shot glasses (small ones work best to fit inside the pizza box).
How to Make It:
- Flatten the Pizza Box: Open up the box so it lays flat, creating enough room for your grid.
- Draw the Grid: Use a marker to sketch out a 5×5 or 6×6 grid on the inside of the box.
- Position Your Shots: Just like in regular Battleshots, place your shot glasses on your side of the grid.
- Play Away: Use the lid of the pizza box to shield your side from your opponent.
Why It’s Awesome:
- Portable: You can carry the game anywhere and play it outdoors, at parks, or on the go.
- Affordable: It’s a no-cost option using a pizza box you’d probably throw away.
- Customizable: Decorate the box with pizza-themed doodles, or get creative with different grids.
The Battle Shots Pizza Box version is perfect for casual gatherings and is an easy-to-set-up option for those last-minute party ideas!
Pro Tips for Hosting a Battleshots Game Night
If you’re hosting a Battleshots night, preparation is key to making sure the night runs smoothly. Here are some tips for ensuring your game night is a hit (pun intended):
Tip 1: Choose Your Drinks Wisely
The fun part of Battleshots is that you can mix and match drinks. However, make sure to use alcohol types that everyone is comfortable with. You can also include non-alcoholic options for a lighter (or more inclusive) game.
Tip 2: Theme Your Game Night
Bring an extra layer of fun by hosting a themed Battleshots night. Maybe it’s a pirate-themed game where everyone dresses the part, or a retro video game theme where shots represent different characters.
Tip 3: Prepare for Spills
Things can get messy. Have paper towels or napkins on hand, and consider playing in a space where a spill won’t ruin anything valuable.
Tip 4: Drink Responsibly
As with any drinking game, make sure everyone’s having a good time but staying safe. Know when to stop, and have water on hand for those needing a break.
Battleshots is the perfect way to add excitement, laughter, and a bit of competition to any party. Whether you’re crafting a custom game board, playing with a pizza box, or trying one of the fun variations, planning a few thoughtful details can elevate your Battleshots night from a simple game to a legendary party event.