Most drinking games with ping pong balls and cups are played in teams. However, sometimes it’s nice to have full control over your gameplay, like in 1 versus 1 battles. D.O.N.K.E.Y. is a good example of a fun individual drinking game.
In D.O.N.K.E.Y., players aim and shoot at each other’s solo cups in a free-for-all manner. For each hit in their cup, a player writes a letter on their cup that together spell the word DONKEY.
The last person who hasn’t spelled the whole word wins the game! It’s perfect for parties as it’s best played with 4 to 6 players.
Here, we’ll take you through the full set of rules and gameplay so that you can start playing right away!
In the next section, we’ll start with how to set up this individual drinking game. After that, we’ll continue with the rules and gameplay.
How to Play D.O.N.K.E.Y.
Ideally, you’d play D.O.N.K.E.Y. on a large circular table, as this would make the best playing field. However, it’s also possible to play on a rectangular table.
What’s most important is that there’s enough space between each player’s cup for balls to bounce between them.
To start, you’ll need at least three players, but the more, the merrier! For each player, you’ll need one party cup and a permanent marker. One ping pong ball will do, but having more than one might come in handy in case a ball breaks or gets lost.
Setting Up
Here’s how to setup D.O.N.K.E.Y.:
- Choose Your Word: While “D.O.N.K.E.Y.” is the traditional choice, feel free to pick any word. The length of the game can vary based on the word’s length.
- Arrange the Cups: Place the community cup in the middle of the table. Then, arrange the other cups evenly around this central cup.
- Fill the Cups: Pour an equal amount of beer (or any drink you prefer) into each cup.
- Claim Your Cup: Each player picks a cup and stands behind it.
Now that everything’s set up, you’re ready to start playing!
D.O.N.K.E.Y. Rules
The D.O.N.K.E.Y. drinking game is all about accuracy, speed, and a bit of luck. Here’s how you play:
1. Starting the Game
Determine who will start the game. The easiest way to do so is by letting the youngest player start.
The first player tries to bounce the ping pong ball via the table into any other player’s cup.
2. Scoring
Whenever a player bounces the ball into someone else’s cup, the cup’s owner must drink its contents and write the first letter of D.O.N.K.E.Y. on it.
The player who got the letter then starts the next round.
Whenever a ball misses, the ball goes to the next player on the left.
The Community Cup
Players can also choose to aim for the community cup in the middle. If they hit this cup, all players must quickly drink the contents of their own cup and then play a round of Flip Cup. The last person to flip their cup then receives the letter.
3. Winning the Game
The winning conditions of this game are to be chosen before starting the game. The options are:
- The first person to complete the word D.O.N.K.E.Y. on their cup is the big loser and ends the game.
- OR each person with a complete D.O.N.K.E.Y. is eliminated, and the last person standing wins the game.
It all depends on how long you’d like to play. The game’s length and intensity can vary based on your choice. Simply discuss the best option for your group of people.
Variations and Extra Rules
Like many drinking games, D.O.N.K.E.Y. can be customized with various house rules and variations to perfectly suit your audience. Here are some ideas:
Different Words
Instead of D.O.N.K.E.Y., you can choose different words to change the game’s length.
A.P.E. is a popular example for a short but effective playthrough.
Skill Shots
Introducing skill shots that count double when they are hits can be hilarious.
A skill shot is an abnormal shot, such as bouncing the ball off the ceiling or the wall.
Generally, successful skill shots count for double points, meaning that the cup’s owner receives two letters instead of just one.
Team Play
Instead of playing free-for-all, you can decide to go for team play where each team shares a word, and members take turns throwing balls. Perfect for larger groups.
Other Fun Cup Games
Do you love D.O.N.K.E.Y.? Then you’ll definitely love one of the other fun drinking games with cups and ping pong balls:
Wrap Up
The D.O.N.K.E.Y. individual drinking game is another unique way to drink beer and throw ping pong balls at each other’s solo cups. Somehow, these types of drinking games are just always effective because everyone does have a blast.
Whether you stick to the traditional rules or add your own unique twist, this game is sure to provide hours of fun!
I’d like to remind everyone to enjoy drinks responsibly and to be mindful of each other’s well-being. Remember, moderation is key for a healthier and more memorable experience. Also, let’s keep an eye on our friends and loved ones – a small act of care can make a big difference. Let’s ensure our gatherings are not just fun, but also safe and supportive for all.
