Boardwalk Toss vs. Hovering Curling: Which Party Game Wins?

Planning a kids' party and stuck between two classic crowd-pleasers? Boardwalk toss and hovering curling both promise big fun, but they play very differently. One tests your aim with a beanbag; the other challenges your touch with a sliding puck. Which one deserves a spot at your next celebration?

We've put both games side by side, looking at skill level, space needs, age suitability, and replay value. Whether you're hosting a backyard bash or a living-room party, this comparison will help you pick the game that fits your crowd.

How the Games Play

Boardwalk toss is a classic beanbag game where players take turns throwing bags onto a raised platform with a hole. The goal is to land the bag on the board or sink it through the hole for extra points. It's easy to learn, and even young kids can get the hang of it after a few throws. The game rewards accuracy and a steady hand, but there's also an element of luck that keeps everyone in the running.

Hovering curling, on the other hand, is a floor-based game that mimics the sport of curling. Players slide a puck across a smooth surface, aiming to land it in a scoring zone or knock opponents' pucks out of the way. It requires a delicate touch and strategic thinking. Kids who enjoy precision and a bit of friendly competition will love the challenge, but younger children might find it harder to control the puck at first.

• Boardwalk toss: easy to learn, high energy, great for all ages.
• Hovering curling: more strategic, rewards practice, better for older kids.

Space and Setup

Boardwalk toss needs a decent amount of open space. You'll want about 10 to 15 feet between the throwing line and the board, plus room for players to stand and retrieve bags. It's perfect for a backyard or a large basement, but it can be a tight fit in a small living room. Setup is quick: just place the board on the ground and you're ready.

Hovering curling is more compact. The playing surface is a mat that rolls out flat, and the game can be played on a tabletop or the floor. You need less than half the space of boardwalk toss, making it ideal for indoor parties where room is limited. The mat stays put, and the pucks slide smoothly, so there's no need for a long runway. If you're short on space, hovering curling is the clear winner.

• Boardwalk toss: needs 10-15 feet of open space, best outdoors or in a large room.
• Hovering curling: compact, works on a table or floor, great for small spaces.

Age and Skill Considerations

Boardwalk toss is incredibly inclusive. Kids as young as four can toss a beanbag, and older kids and adults can enjoy the challenge of aiming for the hole. It's a game that levels the playing field—little ones can beat grown-ups with a lucky shot. This makes it a fantastic choice for mixed-age parties where you want everyone to participate.

Hovering curling is better suited for kids aged six and up. It requires fine motor control and an understanding of angles and force. Younger children may get frustrated when their puck slides too far or not far enough. However, for kids who enjoy strategy games, hovering curling offers a deeper challenge that can keep them engaged for hours. If your party skews older, this game will be a hit.

• Boardwalk toss: ages 4 and up, easy for all skill levels.
• Hovering curling: ages 6 and up, rewards practice and strategy.

Replay Value and Fun Factor

Both games have high replay value, but in different ways. Boardwalk toss is fast-paced and social. Rounds are quick, so kids can play multiple times without getting bored. The thrill of sinking a bag through the hole never gets old, and it's easy to organize tournaments or team play. It's a game that gets everyone cheering.

Hovering curling is more methodical. Each round takes a bit longer as players plan their shots. The satisfaction of knocking an opponent's puck out of the scoring zone is huge, and kids who love competition will want to play again and again. It's also a quieter game, so it's great for indoor parties where you want to keep the noise level down.

• Boardwalk toss: quick rounds, high energy, perfect for tournaments.
• Hovering curling: slower pace, strategic, great for focused play.

Which Game Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your party's vibe and space. If you're hosting a backyard party with plenty of room and a mix of ages, boardwalk toss is a safe bet. It's easy to learn, inclusive, and gets everyone moving. Pair it with other outdoor favorites like the Street and Hallway Hockey Game Set to create an action-packed afternoon.

If your party is indoors or space is tight, hovering curling is the smarter pick. It's compact, quieter, and offers a unique twist that kids will remember. For a more laid-back gathering, it's a great centerpiece. You can even set it up on a table so kids can play while mingling.

For the ultimate party, why not have both? Set up boardwalk toss outside and hovering curling inside. That way, kids can flow between high-energy and strategic play, keeping the fun going all day.

• Choose boardwalk toss for outdoor, mixed-age parties.
• Choose hovering curling for indoor, space-limited events.
• Having both covers all bases and keeps kids entertained.

Both boardwalk toss and hovering curling are excellent party games, but they shine in different settings. Boardwalk toss brings classic, high-energy fun that everyone can enjoy, while hovering curling offers a strategic, space-saving alternative. Consider your space, the ages of your guests, and the vibe you want. Whichever you pick, you're guaranteed a game that will be the talk of the party.