What is the difference between Beirut and beer pong?

Beirut and beer pong are two popular drinking games that involve throwing a ping pong ball into cups of beer. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two games.

1. Origins: Beirut, also known as beer pong, originated on the East Coast of the United States in the 1980s. It was named after the capital city of Lebanon, where a similar game was played. On the other hand, beer pong is said to have originated in the Midwest in the 1950s.

2. Equipment: The equipment used in both games is similar, but there are some differences. In Beirut, players typically use a rectangular table, usually a ping pong table, with 10 cups arranged in a pyramid shape at each end. Beer pong, on the other hand, is usually played on a long, rectangular table with 6 or 10 cups arranged in a triangle shape at each end.

3. Cup Setup: In Beirut, the cups are filled with beer, usually about one-third full, and arranged in a pyramid shape. The cups are typically re-racked into smaller triangles as they are hit. In beer pong, the cups are also filled with beer, but they are arranged in a triangle shape and remain in the same position throughout the game.

4. Scoring: In Beirut, each cup is assigned a point value, usually ranging from 1 to 3 points. When a ball lands in a cup, the opposing team must drink the beer and the points are tallied. The game continues until one team reaches a predetermined number of points. In beer pong, each cup is also assigned a point value, but the game is typically played with a "last cup" rule. This means that if a team successfully lands a ball in the last cup, the opposing team must drink all the remaining cups.

5. Gameplay: The gameplay in both games is similar, but there are some variations. In Beirut, players take turns throwing the ball at the opposing team's cups. If a ball lands in a cup, the opposing team must drink the beer and the cup is removed from play. In beer pong, players also take turns throwing the ball, but if a ball lands in a cup, the cup remains on the table and the opposing team must drink the beer.

In conclusion, while Beirut and beer pong share some similarities, such as throwing a ping pong ball into cups of beer, there are distinct differences between the two games. Beirut is typically played on a rectangular table with 10 cups arranged in a pyramid shape, while beer pong is played on a long, rectangular table with 6 or 10 cups arranged in a triangle shape. The cup setup, scoring, and gameplay also differ between the two games. Whether you prefer the strategic re-racking of Beirut or the intense last cup rule of beer pong, both games offer plenty of fun and competition for drinking game enthusiasts.

Max Johnson

Beer pong, cornhole, foosball, shuffleboard, ping pong

Max is a former college athlete who turned to bar sports after graduation. He has a competitive spirit and loves the thrill of victory. He enjoys teaching others how to improve their skills and dominate the competition.