Horserace (drinking game)

Horserace setup

Horserace is a popular drinking game that simulates a horse race. Participants bet on imaginary horses and drink according to the progress of their chosen horse in the race. The game is known for its simplicity and the excitement it generates among players. It is a common fixture at parties and social gatherings, particularly among college students and young adults.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Horserace involves a standard deck of playing cards, with each suit representing a horse. The game begins with the cards being shuffled and laid out in a straight line, which acts as the racetrack. Each horse (suit) starts the race at the beginning of the track. Players then place their bets on which horse they believe will win the race.

A separate deck of cards or the remaining cards from the same deck are used by the announcer (a non-participant or a player not betting in the current round) to advance the horses. The announcer draws cards from the deck one at a time, and the suit of each card drawn advances one space along the track. The first horse to reach the end of the track wins the race.

Drinking Rules

The drinking rules for Horserace can vary, but typically, players must drink whenever the horse they bet on advances. The amount can be a sip or a predetermined number of sips. Additionally, players who bet on the losing horse may have to perform a penalty drink, which is usually larger than the drinks taken during the race.

Variations

There are several variations of Horserace, including adding obstacles or power-ups along the racetrack. These can include spaces where a horse may have to move back a space or where all horses except the one in the lead advance, adding an element of unpredictability and strategy to the game.

Another common variation involves the announcer calling out events or challenges based on the cards drawn, which can affect the outcome of the race or the drinking rules.

Strategy

While largely a game of chance, players can employ strategies in betting, such as observing the cards already played to calculate the odds of certain suits advancing. However, the random nature of card drawing means that no strategy can guarantee a win.

Safety and Considerations

As with all drinking games, participants are encouraged to play Horserace responsibly. It is important to know one's limits and ensure that everyone is comfortable with the pace and amount of drinking involved. Ensuring that non-alcoholic options are available for those who do not drink or wish to pace themselves is also a good practice.