Various types of bowling games exist throughout the world, many of which have a long and related history. The popularity of individual bowling games often relates to geography, with different regions favoring a particular type of game. Basic bowling game-play principals are generally the same. Each player rolls or throws a ball at a target with the intention of knocking down the target or positioning his ball as close to the target object as possible.
Skittles
The ancient game of skittles has influenced many modern forms of bowling. Various forms of traditional skittles are still played in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom. The name of the game derives from the small bowling pins, or skittles, that must be knocked down using a small but heavy ball. Regional rules vary greatly.
10-pin Bowling
According to the Help With Bowling website, 10-pin is the most popular bowling game played in the United States today. Regional variations of 10-pin bowling exist throughout North America, including five-pin, nine-pin, duckpin and candlepin bowling. 10-pin bowling is not only found in North America; 10-pin bowling lanes are in many countries across the globe, particularly in big cities.
Lawn Bowls
Lawn bowls is popular in many Commonwealth countries, particularly the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. The bowling balls, which are asymmetrical and weighted on one side, travel in a curve when rolled. The aim of the game is to roll each ball as close as possible to a small target ball known as the jack. Official variations include Crown Green Bowls and Indoor Bowls.
Petanque
Petanque is a bowling game played throughout France and, to a lesser extent, in the United Kingdom and Quebec. Players throw metal balls through the air toward a small target ball, with the goal to get as close to the target ball as possible. The game is traditionally played on a gravel surface, but can also be played on grass or sand.
Bocce
Bocce is an Italian bowling game similar in many respects to petanque, but with some important variations. Unlike petanque, players must call each throw beforehand. According to the international bocce organization, known as the Collegium Cosmicum Ad Buxeas, there are three different types of throw: the punto, raffa and volvo. Each throw has its own specific function. A player can roll bocce balls along the ground or throw them through the air, but the type of throw must match the original call.
Irish Road Bowling
Irish road bowling is a traditional sport played in Ireland, with a small but growing following in parts of the United States and New Zealand. According to the West Virginia Irish Road Bowling Association, the game involves throwing a 28-oz. iron ball down a country lane. The winner is the player who reaches the predetermined finish line in the least number of throws.
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