The Four Bowman 2 Game Modes, Explained

The four official modes

The official description of Bowman 2 (from the Addicting Games page) lists exactly four modes: "computer, human, practice, and bird hunting." This page explains each one so you know what to expect before you click play.

Mode	Who it is for	What you do
Computer	Single player	Duel against an AI opponent, turn by turn
Human	Two players, one screen	Same-screen 1v1 duel, taking turns
Practice	Anyone learning	Shoot freely to learn power and angle
Bird Hunting	Single player	Shoot birds with your bow instead of duelling

Computer mode (vs AI)

Computer mode is the standard single-player duel. You face an AI stickman archer in the same turn-based format: pick an angle, set your power, fire, then watch the computer respond. It is the best mode for learning the strategy basics — the computer is steady, so your own consistency is what decides the match.

Human mode (2-player)

Human mode is the same-screen two-player duel. The official Y8 description frames it as "1 v 1 in 2 player mode" — two players share one device and take turns shooting at each other. This is the classic pass-and-play format that made Bowman 2 a party and classroom favourite. Full detail is on the 2-player page.

Practice mode

Practice mode exists so you can shoot without an opponent shooting back. It is the ideal place to learn two things before a real duel: how much power sends the arrow how far, and how the angle changes the arc. New players who spend five minutes in practice usually win their first computer duel — details in the how-to-play guide.

Bird hunting mode

Bird hunting is the odd one out in the best way: instead of duelling, you shoot at birds with your bow. The official description mentions "hunting birds using a bow", and the Y8 description pairs it with the same idea. It is a single-player, target-shooting style mode — a good change of pace and a great place to practice leading your shots, since birds move.

Which mode should you pick?

• New to the game? Start with practice for a few minutes, then computer mode.
• Have a friend nearby? Human mode — it is the game at its best.
• Want something different? Bird hunting for target practice with a twist.

Every mode is free to play and runs in the browser — see where to play for verified platforms.