How to Play Las Vegas Golf Game

Las Vegas is a high-stakes, fast-paced team game designed for exactly four players divided into two teams of two. It is known for creating dramatic swing holes where a single stroke can shift dozens of points. Unlike standard games where partner scores are added, Las Vegas **pairs** the scores into two-digit numbers, turning small card margins into massive point payouts.

Score Pairing Rules

On each hole, the scores of the two partners are combined to form a two-digit number. By default, the **lower score is placed first** (in the tens position) to create the lowest possible number for the team.

For example:

• If Team A's players score a 4 and a 5, their team number for the hole is 45 (not 9).
• If Team B's players score a 5 and a 7, their team number is 57.

The point difference between the two numbers determines the payout on the hole. In the example above, Team A wins 12 points (57 minus 45 = 12). Points are accumulated throughout the round and multiplied by a pre-set cash value per point (e.g., $0.10 or $1.00 per point).

The Double-Digit Rule

If a player scores a double-digit number (10 or higher) on a hole, the pairing rules are modified to prevent excessively large numbers. The higher score is always placed second. For example, if a player scores a 10 and their partner scores a 4, the paired score is 410.

The Birdie Flip Mechanic

The most famous aspect of Las Vegas is the **Birdie Flip**. If a player scores a birdie (or better) on a hole, the opponent team's digits are **flipped** (reversed) to put their higher score in the tens position, unless the opponents also card a birdie or better on the same hole.

This creates massive score swings. For example:

• Suppose Team A gets a 3 (birdie) and a 5, pairing to 35.
• Team B gets a 4 and a 6. Ordinarily, Team B's paired score is 46. But because Team A birdie-flipped them, Team B's score is reversed to 64.
• Team A wins **29 points** (64 minus 35 = 29), instead of the standard 11 points.

If a player scores an eagle or better, some groups play that the opponents' digits are flipped and doubled, though standard rules focus on the digit flip.

Gross vs. Net Las Vegas

Las Vegas can be played based on raw scores (Gross) or adjusted scores (Net). In **Net Las Vegas**, players apply their course handicaps on the scorecard. The net scores of partners are paired. For example, a net 3 and net 4 pair to 34. Birdies are also evaluated based on net scores, making it accessible to groups with varied handicaps.

Team Selection and Rotation

Teams can remain the same for all 18 holes, or players can choose to rotate partners every 6 holes (similar to Sixes) or calculate wagers based on rotating pairings. Settle the Card supports setting up exactly 4 players and manages the scoring calculations and final standings automatically.