Cornhole vs. Cannonball: Which Backyard Game Is Right for Your Next Party?
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For years, Cornhole has been the king of backyard games. It's a staple at tailgates, BBQs, breweries, and family reunions because it's easy to learn, portable, and fun for just about everyone.
But backyard entertaining has evolved. Today's hosts want games that get more people involved, create memorable moments, and keep guests talking long after the party ends.
That's where Cannonball comes in.
Rather than replacing Cornhole, Cannonball offers something different-a water-based backyard game that blends skill, strategy, and just enough unpredictability to make every round feel fresh.
If you're wondering which game is the better fit for your next gathering, here's how they compare.
At a Glance
| Cornhole | Cannonball | |
|---|---|---|
| Players | 2-4 | 2-8 |
| Average Game | 15-30 minutes | About 15 minutes |
| Setup | 2 minutes | About 10 minutes |
| Strategy | Medium | High |
| Water Required | No | Yes |
| Best For | Tailgates & patios | Pool parties, BBQs & summer gatherings |
What They Have in Common
If you enjoy Cornhole, you'll feel right at home with Cannonball.
| Cornhole | Cannonball |
|---|---|
| Easy to learn | Easy to learn |
| Great for parties and BBQs | Perfect for parties and BBQs |
| Team-based competition | Team-based competition |
| Fun for all skill levels | Fun for all skill levels |
| Fast games that encourage rematches | Fast 15-minute games that keep everyone playing |
| Portable and easy to bring along | Packs into one carry bag-just add a pool |
| Creates unforgettable memories with friends and family | Creates unforgettable memories-with a few more splashes |
Where Cannonball Changes the Game
This is where the games begin to separate themselves.
| Cornhole | Cannonball |
|---|---|
| Fixed wooden board | Floating scoring rings that move throughout the game |
| Bean bags only | Three different ball types with unique purposes |
| Mostly offensive play | Offense and defense on every throw |
| Predictable target | Constantly changing target positions |
| Steady scoring | Dramatic comeback opportunities with the Treasure Chest |
| Players stand at opposite ends | Everyone gathers around the action |
| Backyard classic | A fresh take on backyard competition |
Player Count
Cornhole is traditionally played with two teams of two. It works well for smaller groups, but once more friends arrive, people often rotate in while others wait.
Cannonball was designed with larger gatherings in mind. Two to eight players can compete at the same time, keeping more people involved and reducing the time spent watching from the sidelines.
Strategy
Cornhole rewards accuracy and consistency.
Cannonball rewards those skills too-but adds another layer.
Every player chooses when to throw a Scorer, when to launch a Cannonball to disrupt the competition, and when to risk their one-time Gold Piece for a chance at an instant 10 points. Meanwhile, the floating scoring rings continue drifting throughout the game, creating new opportunities and forcing players to adapt their strategy every round.
No two games play exactly alike.
The Party Factor
This may be the biggest difference.
Cornhole is dependable. Everyone knows how it works, and it's easy to jump into a game.
Cannonball creates moments.
A perfectly thrown Cannonball can send scoring rings drifting across the pool. A Gold Piece can swing the entire game. A last-second splash can turn celebration into laughter.
Those unexpected moments are often what people remember long after the party ends.
Setup
Cornhole is hard to beat for convenience. Set the boards down, grab the bean bags, and you're ready in just a couple of minutes.
Cannonball takes a little more preparation. Fill a small pool with water, place the floating rings, and you're ready to play in about 10 minutes.
It's a little more work, but it creates an entirely different experience.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Cornhole if you're looking for:
- Tailgates
- Breweries
- Camping trips
- Quick setup
- Traditional backyard competition
Choose Cannonball if you're hosting:
- Pool parties
- Summer BBQs
- Family reunions
- Beach days
- Large backyard gatherings
- Groups looking for something they've never played before
Final Thoughts
Cornhole has earned its place as one of America's favorite backyard games, and for good reason. It's simple, competitive, and has become a staple at tailgates, backyard BBQs, and family gatherings across the country.
Cannonball isn't here to replace Cornhole.
It's built for a different kind of experience.
If Cornhole is the backyard classic everyone already knows, Cannonball is the game that surprises people - and quickly becomes the one they ask to play again.
With floating scoring rings, defensive strategy, game-changing Treasure Chest shots, and room for up to eight players, Cannonball brings a fresh level of excitement to outdoor entertaining while keeping the fast-paced, easy-to-learn gameplay that makes backyard games so much fun.
You don't have to choose one or the other. Bring Cornhole to the tailgate. Bring Cannonball to the pool party. Better yet, bring both - and let your guests decide which one steals the show.
Looking for more backyard game ideas? Check out our guide to the Best Backyard Games for BBQs and Pool Parties, where we compare today's most popular outdoor games and help you find the perfect fit for your next gathering.