German Drinking Games That Make Any Party Legendary | Pick Me Up Game (2024)

If you're looking to add some German flair to your next party, why not dive into the world of German drinking games? These games have a long-standing tradition of bringing people together to laugh, drink, and enjoy each other’s company. From fast-paced challenges to classic games that require a bit of strategy, German drinking games offer something for every party vibe. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a lively celebration, these games are sure to make your event memorable.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular German drinking games, along with the unique rules and traditions that make them so much fun!

1. Bierschinken

Bierschinken (literally “beer ham”) is a classic German drinking game that requires a bit of strategy and quick thinking. The goal is simple: get rid of your beer cards before anyone else. Here’s how you play:

• Each player is dealt a set of cards with various numbers and symbols on them.
• Players take turns playing a card, and the card’s value indicates how much beer they must drink.
• The challenge? There are also wild cards that allow you to make other players drink or skip their turn. The first player to get rid of all their cards wins, while the rest take drinks based on the cards they still hold.

The simple yet fun nature of Bierschinken makes it a great choice for both small and large groups. Plus, the game helps everyone get involved, making it an excellent icebreaker for new friends or acquaintances.

2. Flip Cup (Flaschendrehen)

A classic favorite in many countries, Flaschendrehen (known internationally as Flip Cup) is a team-based drinking game where players compete to flip cups filled with beer (or any drink) by using their fingers.

Here’s how to play:

• Divide into two teams of equal size.
• Each team takes turns flipping their cup upside down after drinking its contents.
• The team that successfully flips all of its cups first wins, and the losing team has to drink as a penalty.

The excitement of Flaschendrehen comes from its fast pace and the competitive spirit it brings out in everyone. This game is perfect for those who want to bring some energy to the party!

3. Quarters (Kreise)

Kreise (German for “Circles”) is a precision game that requires players to try and land a coin in a glass. It’s a mix of skill and luck that makes it both exciting and challenging.

Here’s how it works:

• Players take turns trying to bounce a coin off the table and into a glass. If you miss, you have to take a drink.
• If you land the coin successfully in the glass, you get to choose another player to drink.
• The game continues until one player is left standing, or everyone is feeling a little tipsy!

Kreise is a game of focus and precision, making it ideal for smaller groups who want a mix of fun and challenge. It’s also easy to play and doesn’t require much setup.

4. Der Pappbecher (The Paper Cup Game)

A simple yet incredibly fun drinking game, Der Pappbecher revolves around paper cups and quick reflexes. This game is usually played in large groups, making it perfect for your next big party!

Here’s how to play:

• Each player gets a paper cup and must try to toss the cup upside down onto the table.
• Players take turns throwing the cup. If it lands with the open side down, they can pass the turn to someone else.
• If it lands on the table the wrong way or doesn’t flip correctly, the player must take a drink.
• The last person still sober wins the game!

Der Pappbecher is fast-paced and requires excellent hand-eye coordination, making it perfect for a fun, light-hearted drinking competition.

5. Kings (Königstrinkspiel)

Similar to the popular Kings Cup game in the U.S., the German version, Königstrinkspiel, involves a deck of cards and lots of drinking. It’s a great social game that encourages interaction and cooperation.

Here’s how to play:

• Spread a deck of cards in a circle around a central cup (the "King's Cup").
• Players take turns drawing cards, each of which corresponds to a specific action.
• For example, a 2 might mean “you” (the player who draws the card) must give a drink, a 7 might mean “heaven” (everyone must raise their hands to the sky), and so on.
• Whenever a player draws a King, they pour some of their drink into the central cup. The game continues until the last King is drawn, at which point the person who drew it has to drink the entire contents of the King’s Cup.

Königstrinkspiel is a fantastic game for large groups and a great way to keep the fun flowing throughout the night.

6. Das Spiel des Lebens (The Game of Life)

If you’re looking for something a bit more complex with a touch of strategy, Das Spiel des Lebens (The Game of Life) might be just what you need. The game is similar to a board game, but with a drinking twist!

Here’s how to play:

• Players take turns moving around the board and completing tasks.
• Each time a player lands on a specific space, they must complete a challenge, such as answering trivia questions or completing physical tasks.
• If a player fails a task, they take a drink as a penalty.
• The first player to reach the end of the board wins the game and can give out drinks to others as a reward.

This game combines the fun of a traditional board game with the excitement of drinking, making it perfect for those who want a more structured game.

7. Schubkarrenrennen (Wheelbarrow Race)

A mix of physical activity and drinking, Schubkarrenrennen (Wheelbarrow Race) is a game that gets everyone moving!

Here’s how it works:

• Players pair up, with one person acting as the "wheelbarrow" and the other as the "driver."
• The wheelbarrow player must walk on their hands while the driver guides them across the room or designated area.
• Along the way, the team must stop and drink at various stations. The faster the pair finishes, the fewer drinks they need to consume.
• The first pair to complete the race wins, and the losing team takes a shot!

This game is perfect for those who enjoy a little physical activity with their drinking and want to get everyone up and moving!

Raise Your Glass to Unforgettable Fun!

German drinking games bring a lively and fun atmosphere to any party, combining strategy, physicality, and social interaction. Whether you’re playing Königstrinkspiel or having fun with Flaschendrehen, these games are sure to make your party memorable. Next time you’re hosting or attending a party, why not spice things up with one (or more) of these German drinking games? Grab your drink, gather your friends, and let the games begin!

Want to discover more ways to level up your party? Check out our ultimate guide to drinking games around the globe.

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