How to Play Bocce Ball and the Rules to Follow


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In summary:

  • Your key objective is to get your bocce ball closest to the pallino than that of your opponent
  • You can try hitting the pallino to get it closer to your ball, or you can hit the opposition’s ball to get it farther away from the pallino
  • Be careful not to cross the foul line when bowling
  • In some games, you may get 2 points at the end of the frame if your ball is touching the pallino
  • Both teams receive no points should their balls be equidistant from the pallino by the end of the frame
  • There will be no tiebreakers in each frame as the points go to only one team
  • The bocce ball game ends as soon as one team attains the target point predetermined before the game.

Bocce ball playing tips to help you win

To win in a game, you need some luck on your side. But having skill can give you an edge over your opponents. To help you win more often, here are some tips for you:

  • According to the rules of the game, you are allowed to toss your ball to get closest to the pallino, hit it, or strike your opponent’s bocce ball to get it farther away from the pallino. With these 3 strategies in mind, formulate a plan with your team members that ensures you take advantage of any of these options to earn more points.
  • Find your distance. You need to understand your strengths when it comes to rolling the ball. You may have a stronger ‘short game.’ it could also be that you’re better when the pallino is far out. So, once it gets to your turn, always play within your strengths as the key to winning the game is staying consistent with your strengths.
  • Put your best into your first shot as this is usually the money shot! Getting it right with your first shot dictates the next move of your opponent, and you don’t want to lose that power. When you get them on the defensive, you keep your advantage.
  • If you’re the last player to roll, be aggressive. Go for maximum points by looking to hit your opponent’s ball farther away from the pallino to gain multiple points.

Spice up your social life with bocce ball

Becoming a pro at bocce ball requires practice and consistency. Many new players, just like yourself, may have difficulties with deciding where to aim while tossing. You’ll also have to learn how much force is necessary to reach your target when tossing the ball.

If you are just starting and looking to get into the game of bocce ball, we hope this guide has proved helpful. Remember that the game is flexible, and the rules can vary sometimes. But all you need to do is understand the basics of the game and adapting shouldn’t be difficult.

The next time you think of a low-intensity, fun classic yard game to boost the mood at social indoor or outdoor gatherings with friends, look no further than bocce ball.

Happy balling!

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