Wagering Comes to GOLF+ - Time to Raise the Stakes!
Golf has long been a sport where friendly wagers bring an added layer of excitement and competition to a round. Whether it’s a simple bet between friends on who will sink the longest putt or a more structured match where strokes are exchanged, wagering is ingrained in the culture of the game. Now, GOLF+ is bringing that tradition into the virtual world with our new Wagering feature for private 1v1 stroke play matches.
Understanding Wagering in Real Golf
The handicap system in golf allows players of all skill levels to compete on a level playing field. In real-world golf, wagering is a popular way to heighten competition and keep matches engaging. You can read more about the handicap system here.
What are some Popular Golf Wagering formats?
- Nassau: A Nassau wager is effectively three separate matches in one—front nine, back nine, and the full 18-hole round. This format keeps the stakes alive throughout the match, as a struggling player or team on the front nine still has a chance to win back their wager on the back nine or the overall match.
- Skins Game: In a Skins Game, each hole (or “skin”) is worth a set amount, and the player with the lowest net score on a hole wins that skin. If two or more players tie, the skin carries over to the next hole, increasing the stakes. Skins Games are exciting because the pot continues to build as ties accumulate, leading to high-pressure moments.
- Pressing: Many golfers may be less familiar with the term “press.” In a traditional match play format, the trailing player or team (usually down by at least two strokes) can choose to “press.” This effectively starts a new match from that point forward with the same wager—similar to a “double or nothing” bet. For example, if a player or team is losing an 18-hole match, they can press on the 15th hole, creating a fresh four-hole match to try and recover their wager.
How Wagering Works in GOLF+
With the introduction of Wagering, players can now put their in-game credits on the line, challenging their friends in head-to-head matches. Here’s how it works:
- Set Up a Private Match - Wagering is currently only available in private 1v1 stroke play games, ensuring a fair and competitive experience.
- Determine Strokes & Stakes - Before teeing off, players will see the Strokes & Stakes screen. GOLF+ will suggest the number of strokes a player should receive, and the host can adjust handicaps to level the playing field and set the wager amount. Players can also choose to not give either player strokes
- Agree to Terms - Both players must agree on the strokes being given and the wager amount before the match begins. Once confirmed, the agreed credits are placed in escrow.
- Play the Round - The game proceeds as usual, with the final score (adjusted for handicaps) determining the winner.
- Winner Takes All - At the end of the round, the winning player claims the pot of in-game credits. If a player quits or disconnects, they forfeit the wager, and the remaining player is awarded the credits.
Bringing Competitive Thrills to GOLF+
With the introduction of Wagering in GOLF+, we’re adding an extra level of strategy and competition to multiplayer rounds. Whether you’re looking to prove your skills, challenge a friend, or simply make each shot more meaningful, wagering is here to up the stakes.
Are you ready to back your game? Jump into GOLF+, set your stakes, and play for the win!
