Six-Point Scotch

Two teams of two play their own ball. Six points are contested each hole: 2 for low team total, 2 for low individual ball, 1 for proximity (closest to the pin in regulation) and 1 for any birdie. Points cancel within a hole, so a 2-1 split nets 1 point to the winner. The team leading on points tees off first regardless of honors.

Winning all six points doubles the hole (a 5-point net win becomes 10; a miracle where both partners birdie and sweep can reach 20). Presses: a next-hole press doubles one hole, a game press doubles all remaining holes (usually once per match), and the leading team may repress. A five-point Scotch variant uses low ball, team total, closest in regulation, fewest putts and birdies, with a category canceled if both teams tie it.

• Wolf Scotch: rotating wolf picks a partner, 8 points a hole (2 each for low ball, low total, birdie, proximity); blitz doubles to 16 (at $5 per point that is an $80 hole)
• Umbrella five-point version worth the hole number (see Umbrella)
• Bonus points for consecutive hole wins

• Arguably the most popular and most confusing gambling game out there; assign one scorekeeper
• Do not press until you know the multiplier rules
• Proximity and birdie points swing close holes