Types of Golf Games, Play, and Formats
Below is a list of commonly played golf games and how they are played
Scramble: All players tee off, pick the best shot, then all hit from there. Continue until the ball is holed. Best for team play.
Shamble: All players tee of, pick the best drive, then everyone plays their own ball from that spot.
Best-Ball (Four-Ball): Each player plays their own ball; the best score counts for the team.
Alternate Shot (Foursomes): Two-player teams alternate shots using one ball; players also alternate tee shots.
Chapman (Pinehurst): Both players tee off, switch balls for the second shots, pick the best shot, and play alternate shot until the ball is holed.
Stableford: Points are awarded based on score per hole (e.g. 1 for bogey, 2 for par, 3 for birdie); most points wins.
Match Play: Win holes outright; total holes won determines the match result.
Skins: Each hole is worth a "skin" (prize); lowest score on the hole wins the skin; ties carry the skin forward.
Wolf: Players rotate as "Wolf," choosing each hole whether to play solo or pick a partner.