If you’re new to softball — whether as a player, parent, or fan — one of the most common questions is: How long is a softball game? Unlike sports with a strict time clock like soccer or basketball, softball games are measured by innings. However, innings can take different amounts of time depending on the level of play and other factors.
A typical softball game is 7 innings long and usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. However, game length varies by level — middle school games often last around 1 to 1.5 hours, while high school and college games can take up to 2.5 hours.
How Many Innings Are There in Softball?
A standard softball game is 7 innings long. In each inning, both teams get a turn at bat and a turn on defense. The inning ends once both teams have had three outs. That’s the basic structure — but there can be exceptions.
If one team is winning by a large margin — often 10 or more runs — a mercy rule can end the game early, sometimes after just 4 or 5 innings. On the other hand, if the game is tied after 7 innings, extra innings may be played until one team comes out on top.
How Many Minutes Are in a Softball Game?
There’s no official game clock for most softball games — innings take as long as they take. On average, a standard softball game usually lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours.
That time includes the innings, warmups between innings, pitching changes, and other game stoppages. Factors that can make a game longer include:
- Extra innings
- Injuries or substitutions
- Weather delays
- Lots of hits and scoring
- Tournament or playoff games
That’s why some leagues and tournaments put a time limit — like 90 or 120 minutes — to help keep the day on schedule.
How Long Is a Softball Game in High School?
High school softball games usually follow the standard 7-inning format. They typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours. However, this can change depending on how competitive the game is and the pace of play.
Some leagues use a time limit (such as no new innings after 1 hour and 45 minutes), especially for doubleheaders or tournament play.
Additionally, mercy rules often apply — allowing a game to end early if one team is up by 10 or more runs after 5 innings.
How Long Is a Softball Game in Middle School?
Middle school softball games tend to be shorter than high school or college games. Many middle school games go 6 or 7 innings and last about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Younger players are often learning as they go, so these games may involve fewer innings or substitutions. Some middle school leagues also set a strict time limit to help keep the game moving quickly — especially on school nights.
How Long Is a Softball Game in College?
College softball games follow the standard 7-inning format as well. These games typically last between 1.5 and 2.5 hours.
The level of play is higher, and innings can take more time due to strategy, substitutions, and scoring. Tournament games or televised games often take longer because of scheduled breaks, replay reviews, and commercial breaks.
Why Do Softball Game Lengths Vary?
A few key factors cause some games to be short and others to last much longer:
✅ Level of play: Younger players usually play quicker games.
✅ Mercy rules & time limits: Help keep games short and fair.
✅ Scoring & hits: Longer innings mean more pitches and plays.
✅ Extra innings: Tie games often go into extra innings.
✅ Weather delays: Rain or lightning can pause or shorten games.
Final Thoughts
The standard softball game is 7 innings long and usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours. But the exact game length depends on the level of play, pace of the game, mercy rules, and whether extra innings are needed.
Whether you’re heading to watch a game at a middle school, high school, or college, knowing these differences will help you plan your day and better appreciate the sport.