Ready to take your party to the next level with a drinking game that’s part Beer Pong, part Civil War, and 100% wild? Meet the Nemesis Drinking Game, a 3v3 showdown that’s sure to bring out the competitive (and slightly buzzed) side in everyone. Whether you’re the master of precision or the king of chaos, this game has it all: cups, balls, drinks, and a dash of strategy. So grab your teammates, set up those cups, and let’s dive into how to play this epic drinking game!
What is the Nemesis Drinking Game?
Nemesis is a hybrid drinking game that blends the best parts of Beer Pong and Civil War into one adrenaline-pumping competition. It’s designed for two teams of three, facing off in a fast-paced battle with a single ping pong ball, aiming to eliminate each other’s cups while keeping their own standing. The game’s beauty lies in its simplicity and chaos—a perfect recipe for any party.
How to Set Up Nemesis Drinking Game
Setting up Nemesis is a breeze but requires a little more planning than your usual Beer Pong game. Here’s how to do it:
- Cup Pyramid: Arrange 21 cups into a pyramid formation on each side of the table. Start with 6 cups at the bottom row, 5 on the next, followed by 4, 3, 2, and finally 1 cup at the top. Each team gets its own pyramid.
- Three-Player Teams: Gather two teams of three players. Each player is matched up with a nemesis from the opposing team.
- 3 Ping Pong Balls: Each pair of nemeses shares a single ping pong ball, meaning there are three balls in play at any given time, but each player can only shoot with their designated ball.
All you need now are your favorite drinks, a flat surface, and players ready for action!
Nemesis Drinking Game Rules
The rules of Nemesis are simple but provide enough structure to keep the chaos manageable. Here’s a quick rundown:
Gameplay Mechanics
- Shared Balls:
Each nemesis pair shares a single ping pong ball, so there are three balls in play at any given time. However, a player can only shoot their designated ball. - Non-Turn-Based Shooting:
Unlike Beer Pong, Nemesis isn’t strictly turn-based. There’s no waiting for your teammates to shoot. As soon as your nemesis hits one of your cups and you drink it, you’re free to take your shot. - Drink-Before-You-Shoot Rule:
Every time your nemesis sinks a ball in one of your cups, you must drink it before taking your next shot. - 1-on-1 Rivalries:
Although the game is 3v3, it feels like three separate 1-on-1 games happening at the same time. Each player is focused on outplaying their nemesis..
Cup Rules and Re-Racking
- Re-rack at 10 and 6 Cups:
When a team has 10 or 6 cups remaining, the opposing team can call for a re-rack, allowing the cups to be rearranged into a tighter triangle. Re-racking helps improve shooting accuracy. All three balls must be in possession before the team can re-rack. - Mid-Air Re-Rack Call:
If a player shoots without re-racking when their team has 10 or 6 cups, the opposing team can call “Re-Rack!” mid-air and catch the ball with no penalty. This forces the player to re-shoot after re-racking. - No Redemption:
Once a team’s cups are eliminated, the game is over. There are no redemption shots, so teams need to stay sharp throughout the game.
Drinking Dynamics
- Uneven Drinking Load:
While each player is theoretically responsible for 7 cups (since there are 21 cups split among 3 players), it rarely works out this evenly. If a nemesis is particularly skilled, their opponent may find themselves drinking significantly more than the rest of the team. - Trash Talking:
The 1-on-1 rivalry allows for targeted trash talking. Since you’re only up against one player, the banter and psychological warfare can get intense and personal, making the game even more fun.
Winning the Game
The game ends when one team runs out of cups. The victorious team gains an advantage for the next round by starting with all three balls, giving them a head start on sinking cups.
Popular Variations of the Nemesis Drinking Game
One of the best parts of the Nemesis Drinking Game is its versatility. You can easily tweak the rules or add fun elements based on your favorite themes, TV shows, or video games. Here are some fan-favorite variations:
1. Tryndamere Drinking Game
In this variation, inspired by League of Legends, the game stays true to Nemesis’ intense 1v1 format but with a nerdy twist. Every time someone yells “Tryndamere!” during the game, all players take a shot. This adds an unpredictable, chaotic element that will keep everyone on their toes.
To make it even more immersive, you can add additional League of Legends rules—such as players having to drink whenever someone mentions an ability, ultimate, or champion. This version is perfect for fans who want to blend their love for League of Legends with the competitive thrill of Nemesis.
2. Star Trek: Nemesis Drinking Game
Sci-fi fans can enhance their Nemesis experience with a Star Trek: Nemesis variation. Stick to the traditional 3v3 format but introduce specific Star Trek triggers. Players must drink every time someone says “Captain” or “Enterprise” during gameplay, reflecting the space battles of the series while competing against their nemesis.
To deepen the immersion, add more triggers like “warp speed” or “beam me up,” where players can immerse themselves in the Star Trek universe while battling their nemesis at the table.
3. Civil War Twist
In this variation, you can introduce rules from the Civil War drinking game to enhance complexity and strategic depth.
Players can’t shoot until a designated countdown is completed, heightening the tension and making each shot more critical. You can also incorporate sabotage mechanics—such as making opponents wait to take their turn or forcing a team to remove one of their balls from play temporarily. This twist makes the game even more intense and competitive, keeping players on their toes.
4. Custom Themed Variations
The beauty of Nemesis is that you can easily adapt it to fit almost any theme or fandom.
Love Marvel movies? You can pair up famous Marvel rivals, adding an extra layer of fun and competition. For example, Iron Man vs. Captain America or Thor vs. Loki, or even team up players like Deadpool and Wolverine. Each pair can have specific triggers based on their on-screen personas or powers to keep the game Marvelously entertaining!
Tips and Strategies for Winning Nemesis Drinking Game
Winning at Nemesis isn’t just about luck—it takes strategy and teamwork. Here are a few tips to keep you on top of your game:
- Slowing Down a Dominant Player: If one player is dominating their nemesis, the weaker nemesis can slow down the game by holding onto the ball. This keeps the dominant player from getting into a rhythm and shifts the dynamic to a 2v2 game for a while.
- Team Matchups: Choosing the right nemesis matchups is critical. Pairing your strongest player against a weaker opponent can quickly rack up points, but if your team falls behind, a well-timed slowdown or strategic re-rack can turn the tide.
- Aim for the Corners: Like in Beer Pong, targeting corner cups can help you dismantle the pyramid faster.
- Block Wisely: Remember, you can only block the ball after it bounces! Keep an eye on your opponents’ hands and react quickly.
- Stay Hydrated: No, seriously—alternate between your drinks and water to stay on your feet for the whole game.
Nemesis isn’t just any drinking game—it’s the perfect mix of chaos, strategy, and good times. Whether you’re dominating your nemesis or pulling off trick shots, every game is bound to end with plenty of laughs (and maybe a few empty cups). So, gather your friends, get those cups lined up, and let the games begin!
Nemesis Drinking Game FAQ
Can you play with fewer than 6 players?
Yes! You can adjust the number of cups and play with fewer people, but 3v3 is the ideal setup for maximum fun and chaos. If you’re short on players, you can switch to 2v2 or even 1v1, as each player focuses on defeating their nemesis.
Do I need specific cups?
Not really! Red Solo cups are the classic choice, but any sturdy plastic or disposable cups will work. Make sure they’re big enough to hold a drink but not too heavy to make the game unbalanced.
Can I modify the game to play without alcohol?
Absolutely. Swap the alcoholic drinks for non-alcoholic options like soda, juice, or even water. You can still enjoy the competitive aspect without the buzz—perfect for younger players or those avoiding alcohol.
How long does a typical Nemesis game last?
Most games last between 15-30 minutes, depending on how skilled (or distracted) the players are. If you’re playing multiple rounds, the pace can pick up as everyone gets more familiar with the rules.
What happens if the ball bounces off the table?
If the ball bounces off the table, it’s considered a dead ball, and no points are scored. The opposing team gets possession and takes their shot. If it lands in a cup but bounces out, it still counts as a hit.
Is there a penalty for spilling cups?
Yes, if a player accidentally knocks over one of their own cups or spills it, they must remove that cup from play and drink what’s left inside. This adds an extra layer of challenge, especially as the game goes on and coordination gets a little trickier!
What’s a good strategy for playing Nemesis?
Good team communication and quick ball recovery are key to winning. Position players based on their strengths—one for quick recovery, another for accurate shooting, and one for defensive skills. Focus on knocking out corner cups early to disrupt your opponent’s pyramid.
Can I play Nemesis outdoors?
Yes, Nemesis can be played indoors or outdoors. Just be cautious of wind if playing outside, as it could interfere with the ball. On windy days, consider playing in a sheltered area to avoid frustration.