ACL Cornhole: Singles vs Doubles Formats Explained

Singles vs Doubles: Key Differences in ACL Cornhole Formats

Cornhole is a game of precision, strategy, and, of course, fun! But if you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you’re better off playing Singles or Doubles in an ACL (American Cornhole League) match, you’re not alone. While the rules are similar in both formats, the dynamics and strategies differ. Whether you prefer to go solo or team up with a partner, understanding the key differences between Singles and Doubles is essential for mastering both formats.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between ACL Cornhole Singles and Doubles, including gameplay rules, strategies, and what makes each format unique.

What Is Singles Cornhole?

In Singles Cornhole, as the name suggests, it's one player versus one player. Each player stands on the same side of the board and takes turns tossing bags at the opposite board. After the round is complete, both players walk to the other board to score and then repeat the process from that side.

Key Features of Singles Cornhole:

Players: Only two players compete—one on each side.
Player Movement: After each round of tossing, players move to the opposite board to score.
Scoring: Each player keeps their own score, and the cancellation scoring method is still applied.
Pitching Order: In Singles, players alternate turns tossing four bags each per round.

Singles Gameplay Example:
Let’s say you’re playing Singles Cornhole. You and your opponent both stand next to one board, aiming for the opposite board. You alternate throws until all eight bags (four per player) are thrown. Once the round is over, both players walk to the other side, collect the bags, tally up the scores, and repeat the process.

What Is Doubles Cornhole?

In Doubles Cornhole, the format expands to two players per team, with one teammate stationed at each board. Players still alternate tossing bags, but instead of moving after each round, players stay on their respective side of the board for the duration of the game.

Key Features of Doubles Cornhole:

Players: Four players in total, with two teams of two.
Teammate Positions: One teammate stands next to each board, and they remain in those positions throughout the game.
Player Turns: Players still alternate tossing four bags, but now teammates take turns tossing while their partner waits at the opposite board.
Scoring: Scoring works the same way, using the cancellation scoring system, but now the team’s score is combined rather than individual scores.

Doubles Gameplay Example:
In a typical Doubles match, let’s say you and your teammate are Team A. You stand next to the board with your opponent from Team B. Your teammate is across from you at the opposite board, standing next to the other Team B player. Players alternate tossing until all eight bags are thrown. Once the round is complete, your teammate scores from the opposite board, and you don’t switch positions.

Key Differences Between Singles and Doubles Cornhole

While the core of the game remains the same, the format affects everything from strategy to player dynamics. Let’s break down the major differences:

1. Number of Players and Team Dynamics

Singles: One player handles all aspects of gameplay, including scoring, throwing, and strategy. It’s a completely solo effort, and your success depends entirely on your own skillset.
Doubles: In Doubles, you have a partner to rely on. This adds a layer of teamwork to the game. Your teammate’s strengths can help compensate for any weaknesses you may have, and vice versa. In many cases, communication and strategy become critical to success in Doubles matches.

2. Player Positioning and Movement

Singles: Players must walk from board to board after each round. This can add a bit more physicality to the game as you’re constantly moving. It also gives you more time to reset mentally between rounds as you switch sides and reassess your strategy.
Doubles: In Doubles, players stay at their assigned end of the court for the entire match. This means you don’t switch sides after each round. Your partner takes care of scoring on the opposite side, which can speed up the game. However, it also means you must rely heavily on your teammate for success.

3. Scoring Strategy

Singles: You control your fate entirely. Since you’re the only one throwing for your team, all the pressure is on you to score points or block your opponent. Every round is an opportunity to directly control the outcome.
Doubles: In Doubles, you share the burden of scoring with your partner. Even if you have an off round, your teammate can pick up the slack by throwing better or blocking the opponent's bags. This team dynamic requires strategy and communication.

4. Game Length and Pacing

Singles: The game’s pace in Singles is generally slower since each player must walk back and forth between the boards to score. This gives players more time to strategize between rounds.
Doubles: Doubles Cornhole tends to be faster-paced because there’s no need to switch sides. Players remain at their boards and keep the flow of the game moving. This faster pace can add pressure but also makes it more dynamic.

5. Communication and Teamwork

Singles: It’s all about you! No need to worry about a partner or communication; you’re the one calling all the shots.
Doubles: In Doubles, communication with your teammate is crucial. You’ll need to coordinate on bag placement strategy, decide when to play aggressively or defensively, and how to handle blocking opponents. Some teams even develop signals or codes to help strategize during a match.

Strategies for Success in Each Format

Singles Cornhole Strategy

When playing Singles, it’s all about consistency and controlling the tempo. Here are a few tips:

Control the Board: Since you’re the only one throwing for yourself, focus on controlling the board. Aim to land bags in front of the hole to block your opponent while ensuring your bags stay in play.
Mental Reset: Use the time walking between boards to reset your focus and clear your mind. Take note of how your opponent is playing and adjust your strategy as needed.
Go for Precision: You don’t have a teammate to bail you out, so each bag needs to count. Focus on landing on the board consistently before aiming for air mails (direct hole shots).

Doubles Cornhole Strategy

In Doubles, teamwork and communication are key. Here are some tips for a successful match:

Communicate Clearly: Before each throw, talk to your teammate about your strategy. Are you aiming for the hole, trying to block, or hoping to knock an opponent’s bag off the board? Make sure you’re both on the same page.
Play to Your Strengths: If one player is better at blocking and the other excels at making air mail shots, use that to your advantage. You don’t need both players to have the same style—play to each other’s strengths.
Alternate Strategies: Take turns being the aggressor and the defender. One player can focus on blocking while the other aims to score high-value shots. Switching up strategies will keep your opponents on their toes.
Trust Your Teammate: In Doubles, you can rely on your partner to pick up the slack. If you have a rough round, don’t worry—trust that your teammate can make up the difference.

Which Format Is Right for You?

Ultimately, whether you prefer Singles or Doubles depends on your play style and preferences:

If you enjoy the pressure of a solo match and want full control over the game, Singles Cornhole is probably your best bet.
If you love the idea of teamwork, communication, and shared strategy, then Doubles Cornhole offers a fun, collaborative experience.

Both formats have their own unique challenges and rewards, so why not try mastering both?

Conclusion: Mastering Singles and Doubles Cornhole

Whether you're playing Singles or Doubles, understanding the key differences between the two formats will help you become a more versatile player. Singles requires precision, consistency, and the ability to handle pressure on your own. Doubles, on the other hand, relies heavily on teamwork, communication, and strategy.

At the end of the day, both formats are incredibly fun and offer their own unique experiences. By practicing in both Singles and Doubles formats, you’ll not only improve your skills but also be ready to tackle any cornhole challenge that comes your way.

So grab your bags, rally your teammates, or step up solo—either way, you’re in for an awesome game of cornhole!