What is the difference between pétanque, boules and bocce?

Great question! Many people often confuse pétanque, boules, and bocce, as they are all similar games that involve throwing or rolling balls towards a target. However, there are some key differences between these three games that set them apart.

First, let's talk about boules. Boules is actually a general term used to describe any game that involves throwing or rolling balls towards a target. Both pétanque and bocce are types of boules games, so you can think of boules as the umbrella term that encompasses various ball-throwing games, including pétanque and bocce.

Now, let's dive into the differences between pétanque and bocce. Pétanque is a French game that is typically played on a compacted dirt or gravel surface. The objective of the game is to throw hollow metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball called a cochonnet, which serves as the target. Players must throw the balls with both feet on the ground and within a small circle drawn on the playing surface. The balls used in pétanque are made of metal and are smaller and heavier than those used in bocce. For a more detailed comparison, you can check out our comprehensive guide comparing bocce and pétanque.

Bocce, on the other hand, is an Italian game that is usually played on a flat, smooth surface such as a lawn or a bocce court with a crushed oyster shell or stone dust surface. The objective of bocce is also to throw balls as close as possible to a target, but in this case, the target is a small ball called a pallino. Bocce balls are larger and lighter than pétanque balls and are typically made of a hard plastic material. In bocce, players can either roll, throw, or bounce the balls towards the pallino, and there is no requirement to keep both feet on the ground while throwing. If you're new to bocce, you might find our comprehensive guide for beginners helpful.

One more key difference between pétanque and bocce is the scoring system. In pétanque, only the team with the ball closest to the cochonnet scores points, and they score one point for each ball that is closer to the cochonnet than their opponent's closest ball. In bocce, both teams can score points in a single round, with points being awarded for each ball that is closer to the pallino than the opponent's closest ball. For a deeper understanding of scoring in bocce, you can read our comprehensive guide to mastering bocce ball scoring.

In summary, while pétanque, boules, and bocce share some similarities, they are distinct games with unique rules, playing surfaces, and equipment. Boules is a general term that includes both pétanque and bocce, while pétanque is a French game played with metal balls on a compacted surface, and bocce is an Italian game played with larger, lighter balls on a smooth surface. The scoring systems also differ between pétanque and bocce, making each game a unique and enjoyable experience.

Kendrick Vandervort

When he's not playing bocce ball, David enjoys hiking and camping. He also volunteers with a local youth sports organization.

Kendrick is a seasoned bocce ball player with numerous championships under his belt. He has a passion for teaching others to enhance their skills and improve their bocce ball game.