Overview

500, also known as Jackpot, is a classic playground game where players throw and catch a ball to earn points, aiming to reach 500 and become the new thrower. It’s a simple, energetic activity requiring minimal setup and encouraging group participation.

How To Play

Here’s how to play:

• Gather Players—You’ll need at least three people, though more makes it livelier.
• Choose Thrower—Select one player to start as the thrower; they’ll toss the ball and call out points.
• Set Up—Pick an open area like a field or playground.
• Call Points—The thrower announces a point value (e.g., 100) and whether it’s “alive” (must be caught in air) or “dead” (can only be picked up after hitting ground).
• Throw Ball—The thrower tosses the ball, aiming to challenge but not stump the catchers.
• Catch Ball—Catchers try to grab it per the thrower’s call; “alive” means in the air, “dead” means after a bounce.
• Award Points—The successful catcher adds the points to their total, tracked mentally or on paper.
• Reach 500—When a catcher hits 500 points, they become the new thrower.
• Repeat Game—Scores are reset to zero as the new thrower starts. Play continues until everyone’s had enough.

Multimedia

Here’s a video explaining 500, AKA Jackpot:

Equipment

You’ll need a ball or frisbee, an open playing area, and—optionally—a way to track scores.

Tips

Here are tips for playing the game:

• Position Smart—Stand where you predict the ball will land based on the thrower’s habits.
• Adapt Fast—Be prepared to switch techniques for “alive” (jump high) or “dead” (wait, then grab) catches.
• Track Scores—Keep your points in mind as well as the point of your competitors.
• Mix Throws—As the thrower, vary tosses (high, low, tricky) to keep catchers on their toes.
• Boost Fun—Cheer each other on to keep the vibe positive, especially with big groups.

History

The history of “500” is not extensively documented, but it is a traditional playground game children have enjoyed for many generations. While exact origins are unclear, it likely evolved from simple ball-throwing and catching activities, with the scoring system and 500-point target becoming standardized over time. The name “500” reflects the goal of reaching that score. It is sometimes called “Jackpot,” suggesting a prize-like element in its scoring. Its evolution includes variations like using frisbees or incorporating kicks, reflecting adaptability to different settings and equipment availability.

Variations And Related Games

Check out these variations and related games:

• Frisbee 500—Swap the ball for a frisbee, changing how it flies and how you catch.
• Mystery Ball—Thrower assigns the point value after the ball is in the air (positive, negative, or zero).
• Kick It—Add kicking the ball into play, with catches after kicks worth more.
• Score Twist—Use fixed values (e.g., 100 for air, 50 for ground) or aim for 1,000 points instead of 500.

Learning

In 500, kids grow through play, especially in the Physical and Social-Emotional Domains. Physically, they sharpen hand-eye coordination and agility, darting to catch “alive” balls or scooping “dead” ones, boosting fitness. Social-emotionally, they learn teamwork, turn taking, and how to handle wins or losses gracefully. They also hone their knowledge of numbers and basic mathematical functions.

500 Wrap-Up

500 is a blast from the past that still shines today, blending physical fun with social connection. Easy to learn, endlessly tweakable, and needing just a ball and space, it’s perfect for any group. Kids (and adults) can dive in, rack up points, and enjoy a game that’s stood the test of time—grab a ball and get throwing.

Have a game or game variation I should add to the catalog, or a fun story from your own playtime? Scroll to the bottom of this page and drop it in the comments or contact me—I’d love to hear from you and keep growing this collection. If you like the post, share it; that’s always appreciated!

Credits

Big thanks to these sources for the details:

• Wikipedia for background and variation ideas.
• Games Kids Play for rules and gameplay details.
• Boy Scout Trail for specific instructions and tips.

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