Different Types Of Dart Games

To be able to improve your game of darts, it is crucial to know different types of darts games. Darts isn’t just a single game; it’s encompassing a dynamic array of diverse and exciting variations; each designed to challenge and refine every player’s unique skill and preference. From classic games like 301 to fun variations like Cricket, this guide is your key to mastering the basics and honing your skills.

Different Types of Darts Games

We will explore the different types of darts games in this post, breaking down their rules and highlighting what makes each one a favorite among enthusiasts. Practicing these different dart games will help you improve your game rapidly.

Table Of Contents

• Different Types of Darts Games
  • Hitting the Bullseye: Traditional Dart Games
  • Game of 501 and 301
  • Game Of Cricket
• Around the Clock Game
• Now, strategy tips for each.
• Beyond the Usual: Specialty Dart Games Unveiled
• Game of Baseball Darts
• Game of Killer Darts
• Game of Shanghai
• Adding a Twist: Fun Variants of Dart Games
• Game of Lawn Darts
• Game of 9 Lives
• Game of Halve-It
• Darting to the Finish: Wrapping Up the Dart Game Journey
• Conclusion

Understanding the different types of dart games is crucial for anyone looking to get serious about darts or just wanting to spice up their game night. From honing precision to strategy and hand-eye coordination, the variety of games can vastly improve your play while keeping things interesting.

Today, I’m going to be talking about the dart games that span from traditional pub contests to specialty variants. You’re going to find out about the rules, objectives, and even pick up a few strategy tips to impress your friends and maybe even win a game or two.

In the next section, I’ll tackle the classic games like 301/501, Cricket, and Around the Clock. These are the bread and butter of the dart world and understanding them is key to darting glory. Traditional games aren’t just about luck; they’re a test of skill, patience, and sometimes, psychological warfare. So, ready your darts, steady your hand, and let’s see what it takes to master the art of traditional dart games.

Hitting the Bullseye: Traditional Dart Games

Traditional dart games form the backbone of the darting world. Whether you’re in a pub or at a home game room, the clang of darts hitting a board is unmistakable. I’m going to delve into the classic games here, the ones that have stood the test of time and skill.

Game of 501 and 301

Objective

Reduce your score from 501 or 301 to exactly zero, starting and finishing on a double.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Starting the Game:
   • Each player begins with a score of 501 for a 501 game or 301 for a 301 game.
   • Decide who goes first by throwing one dart each at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
2. Double-In:
   • Players must hit a double to start scoring. For example, hitting double 20 will allow the player to start subtracting from 301.
   • If a player fails to hit a double to start, their score remains at 501 or at 301, and their turn ends.
3. Throwing Rounds:
   • Once a player is “in” (has hit a double), they take turns throwing three darts per round.
   • Subtract the total score of the three darts from the player’s current total.
4. Scoring:
   • The outer bullseye scores 25 points, the inner bullseye scores 50 points, the double ring scores double, and the triple ring scores triple.
5. Winning the Game:
   • In both games, a player must reach exactly zero to win.
   • The final dart must land in a double.
6. Bust Rule:
   • If a player reduces their score below zero or fails to end on a double, their score reverts to what it was at the beginning of that turn.

By mastering the rules and strategies of 501 and 301, players can enjoy two of the most engaging and competitive darts games.

Game Of Cricket

The game of cricket is not just about hitting the numbers; it’s also about strategy and closing out your innings quicker than your opponent.

In Cricket, you’re going to find out about hitting the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye three times to ‘open’ and then ‘close‘ them while racking up points if your opponent hasn’t closed that number yet.

How to Play Cricket Darts

Objective

The aim is to “close” all your numbers (20 through 15 and the bullseye) and have the highest or equal points when all numbers are closed.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Cricket uses the numbers 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the bullseye.
   • Players or teams decide who goes first by throwing one dart each at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
2. Closing Numbers:
   • To close a number, a player must hit it three times.
   • Hitting a single segment counts as one hit, a double segment counts as two hits, and a triple segment counts as three hits (single, double and triple segments).
3. Scoring Points:
   • Once a number is closed by a player, they can start scoring points on that number.
   • Points are scored each time the player hits a closed number that the opponent has not yet closed. For example, if a player has closed 20 and hits it again while the opponent hasn’t closed it, they score 20 points for each hit.
   • The outer bullseye scores 25 points, and the inner bullseye scores 50 points.
4. Gameplay Rounds:
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per round.
   • The goal is to strategically close numbers while also scoring points to gain a lead over the opponent.
5. Winning the Game:
   • The game ends when all the numbers (20 through 15 and the bullseye) are closed by one player or team.
   • The player or team with the highest score wins.
   • If both players or teams have the same score, the first to close all numbers wins.
6. Strategies:
   • Players often prioritize closing the higher numbers first (20s and 19s) to maximize their scoring potential.
   • Balancing between closing numbers and scoring points is key to gaining an advantage.

Example Turn:

1. First Dart: Hits triple 20 – the player closes 20 in one throw (3 hits).
2. Second Dart: Hits single 18 – one hit on 18.
3. Third Dart: Hits double 17 – two hits on 17.

Tips:

• Focus on High Numbers First: Target higher numbers early on for greater scoring potential.
• Defense and Offense: While closing numbers, also try to prevent your opponent from scoring by closing the same numbers they are targeting.
• Adapt Strategy: Depending on your opponent’s moves, adjust your strategy between closing numbers and scoring points.

Cricket is a blend of strategy, precision, and adaptability, making it an exciting and challenging game for dart players of all levels.

Around the Clock Game

Around the clock game is a simple but a true test of steady hands and focused eyes. It isn’t just about precision but also about consistency.

How to Play Around the Clock Darts

Objective

Hit every number on the dartboard in sequential order from 1 to 20, and then hit the bullseye.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Decide who goes first by having each player throw one dart at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
2. Starting the Game:
   • The first player starts by aiming for the number 1.
3. Throwing Rounds:
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per round.
   • Each player must hit the numbers in sequential order, starting from 1 and progressing to 2, 3, 4, and so on, up to 20.
   • Once a player hits the current target number, they proceed to the next number in the sequence in their next turn.
4. Hitting the Numbers:
   • To move to the next number, the player must hit the current target number with one of their darts.
   • Only the outer single segments of the numbers are counted. Doubles and triples do not count separately in this game; any hit within the segment of the target number is sufficient.
5. Winning the Game:
   • After hitting all the numbers from 1 to 20 in order, the player must then hit the bullseye to win.
   • The outer bullseye counts as a valid hit to finish the game.
6. Continuing Play:
   • If a player misses the target number with all three darts, they stay on that number and try again in their next turn.
   • The game continues until one player hits all the numbers in order and finishes with the bullseye.

Example Turn:

1. First Dart: Hits 1 – the player now targets 2.
2. Second Dart: Hits 3 – does not count because the target is 2.
3. Third Dart: Hits 2 – the player now targets 3 in their next turn.

Tips:

• Focus on Accuracy: Precision is more important than power; aim carefully for each number.
• Stay Relaxed: Take your time with each throw to ensure accuracy, especially as you progress towards higher numbers.
• Practice Sequencing: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the board to move smoothly from one number to the next.

Around the Clock is a great game for improving accuracy and familiarity with the dartboard, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced players looking to sharpen their skills.

Now, strategy tips for each.

• With 301/501, aim to familiarize yourself with the number sequences that leave you with a favorable double out.
• For Cricket, pay attention to defense as much as offense – closing out your opponent’s numbers can be just as critical as scoring on your own.
• Around the Clock may seem straightforward, but the strategy here is practice, practice, practice. Getting consistent on every number sets you apart.

This brings us into the realm of specialty dart games, which add even more variety to the games you can play with just a board and some darts. Each of these games pushes different skills to the forefront and shows just how versatile a dartboard can be.

Beyond the Usual: Specialty Dart Games Unveiled

You’ve got the classics down, but dart games have a lot more variety than you might think. Specialty dart games offer a world of their own with unique rules and exciting gameplay that can jazz up any game night. These aren’t your standard pub games; they require a blend of skill, strategy, and sometimes, a little bit of luck.

Game of Baseball Darts

Much like the sport, this game has innings and runs, but here’s the twist – you’re scoring with darts, not bats.

In Baseball, players throw darts at numbers 1 through 9, representing innings. Hitting the corresponding number scores a ‘run’, and like in real baseball, the player with the most runs at the end wins. Sharpen your aim to hit singles, doubles, triples, or even home runs for maximum points.

When it comes to strategy in Baseball, focus on accuracy and consistency. The better you are at hitting specific numbers on the board, the more likely you’ll rack up runs quickly. And just like the sport, occasionally, it’s beneficial to ‘bunt’, aiming for a single when a double seems risky.

How to Play Baseball Darts

Objective

Score the most runs by hitting the designated numbers for each inning over nine innings.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Decide who goes first by having each player throw one dart at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
   • The game consists of nine innings, and each inning corresponds to a specific number on the dartboard.
2. Designated Numbers for Innings:
   • 1st Inning: Number 1
   • 2nd Inning: Number 2
   • 3rd Inning: Number 3
   • 4th Inning: Number 4
   • 5th Inning: Number 5
   • 6th Inning: Number 6
   • 7th Inning: Number 7
   • 8th Inning: Number 8
   • 9th Inning: Number 9
3. Throwing Rounds:
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per inning.
   • In each inning, players aim to hit the designated number for that inning. For example, in the first inning, players aim for the number 1.
4. Scoring:
   • A single hit on the designated number counts as one run.
   • A double hit on the designated number counts as two runs.
   • A triple hit on the designated number counts as three runs.
   • Misses do not contribute to the score.
5. Recording Scores:
   • After each player throws their three darts, tally the runs for that inning and add them to their cumulative score.
   • Record the scores for each inning on a score sheet.
6. Winning the Game:
   • The game is played over nine innings.
   • The player with the most cumulative runs at the end of the nine innings wins the game.

Example Inning:

• 1st Inning (Target: Number 1):
  1. First Dart: Hits single 1 – 1 run.
  2. Second Dart: Hits double 1 – 2 runs.
  3. Third Dart: Misses the 1 – 0 runs.
  • Total Runs for the Inning: 3 runs.

Tips:

• Accuracy Over Power: Focus on precise throws to hit the designated numbers, especially the doubles and triples.
• Consistent Practice: Familiarize yourself with the board to improve your accuracy on specific numbers.
• Strategize Each Inning: Plan your throws to maximize your runs, especially in the later innings when the target numbers are higher.

Baseball Darts combines the strategic elements of baseball with the precision of darts, making it an engaging and competitive game for players of all skill levels.

Game of Killer Darts

Here, every player becomes a ‘killer’ after hitting their double number, which is pre-assigned. Once you’ve turned killer, you can begin ‘killing’ other players by hitting their double numbers. Hit it three times, and they’re out of the game. The last one standing wins. Be stealthy, accurate, and always stay a step ahead.

Effective Killer strategies involve protecting your number while taking out your opponents’. Balance your aggressive attacks with strategic defenses. Don’t reveal your prowess too early – sometimes, keeping a low profile can help you survive longer.

How to Play Killer Darts

Objective

Eliminate all other players by hitting their designated numbers after becoming a “Killer” by hitting your own number’s double.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Each player throws one dart with their non-dominant hand to randomly determine their target number. Each player will have a unique number.
   • Write down each player’s number on a score sheet.
2. Becoming a Killer:
   • To become a Killer, a player must hit the double of their designated number. For example, if your number is 14, you must hit double 14 to become a Killer.
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per round, trying to hit their own double to gain Killer status.
3. Killer Status:
   • Once a player hits the double of their number, they become a Killer.
   • Mark the player’s name with a “K” on the score sheet to indicate they are a Killer.
4. Eliminating Opponents:
   • After becoming a Killer, a player can target other players’ numbers.
   • Each hit on an opponent’s number reduces their lives. The number of lives can be predetermined (usually 3 lives per player).
   • A single hit on an opponent’s number counts as one hit (one life lost), regardless of whether it’s a single, double, or triple hit.
5. Eliminating Players:
   • When a player’s lives are reduced to zero, they are eliminated from the game.
   • The game continues until only one player remains.
6. Winning the Game:
   • The last remaining player with lives wins the game.

Example Turn:

• Player 1’s Number: 14
  1. First Dart: Hits single 14 – does not count.
  2. Second Dart: Hits double 14 – Player 1 becomes a Killer.
  3. Third Dart: Hits single 20 – does not count since it’s not an opponent’s number.
• Player 2’s Number: 8
  1. First Dart: Hits double 8 – Player 2 becomes a Killer.
  2. Second Dart: Hits single 14 – Player 1 loses one life.
  3. Third Dart: Hits single 8 – does not count.

Tips:

• Aim for Accuracy: Focus on hitting doubles precisely to quickly become a Killer.
• Target Strategy: Once you’re a Killer, strategically target opponents with the most lives to increase your chances of winning.
• Defensive Play: If you’re not yet a Killer, try to avoid high-risk areas and practice hitting your double.

Killer Darts is a thrilling game that blends accuracy, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it a favorite among players who enjoy a competitive edge in their darts games.

Game of Shanghai

To play Shanghai, you need to hit singles, doubles, and triples of the same number in any order during the round dedicated to that number. It’s a race to see who can get the ‘Shanghai’ score first, with quick wins possible at any time.

In the strategical realm of Shanghai, sharpshooting is everything. Anticipating your opponents’ moves and focusing on the target numbers for each round is crucial. Accuracy can lead to quick, decisive victories, so practice is key.

How to Play Shanghai Darts

Objective

Score the highest points in each round by hitting specific numbered segments of the dartboard according to the round number.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Players or teams decide who goes first by throwing one dart each at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
   • Each round corresponds to a number from 1 to 7 (or 1 to 10 for a longer game), including the bullseye (number 25 or 50, depending on the variant).
2. Throwing Rounds:
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per round.
   • In each round, players must hit the designated number (1 through 7) on the dartboard.
   • The target number changes each round, starting with 1 in the first round, 2 in the second round, and so on.
3. Scoring:
   • Players earn points based on the number of times they hit the designated segment in each round.
   • A single hit on the designated number earns the player the face value of the segment.
   • A double hit earns double the face value, and a triple hit earns triple the face value.
   • Hitting the bullseye (inner or outer) in the corresponding round earns the player double the face value of the current round.
4. Special Rule – Shanghai:
   • If a player scores a single, double, and triple of the designated number in the same round, it’s called a “Shanghai.”
   • A Shanghai scores as an automatic win for that round, and the player earns the maximum points possible for that round.
5. Winning the Game:
   • The game typically consists of seven rounds, with each round corresponding to a number from 1 to 7 (or 1 to 10 for a longer game).
   • At the end of the final round, the player or team with the highest total score wins the game.

Example Turn:

• Round 3 (Target: 3):
  1. First Dart: Hits single 3 – scores 3 points.
  2. Second Dart: Hits double 3 – scores 6 points.
  3. Third Dart: Hits triple 3 – scores 9 points.
  • Total Points for Round 3: 18 points.

Tips:

• Strategic Focus: Plan your shots to maximize points in each round while aiming for a Shanghai.
• Risk Management: Balancing risk and reward is crucial; go for high-scoring segments but ensure accuracy to avoid losing points.
• Adaptability: Adjust your strategy based on your current score and the progress of your opponents.

Shanghai is a dynamic and engaging darts game that rewards precision, strategy, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, making it a favorite among players looking for a challenge.

Moving on from the specialty dart games, let’s talk about adding an extra element of fun to your dart-playing experience. You’re going to find out about a few variations that are perfect for those family get-togethers or a laid-back evening with friends. Get ready to explore Lawn Darts and other delightful variations in the next section.

Adding a Twist: Fun Variants of Dart Games

When it’s time to mix things up a little, there’s a whole world of fun and varied dart games to explore. These aren’t your typical pub games; they’re designed to add a layer of fun and challenge to your dart throwing experience. Let’s take a look at some of these creative twists on the classic dart game format.

Game of Lawn Darts

Lawn darts, also known as Jarts, is a game that involves throwing large darts at a target on the ground. However, it’s important to note that traditional lawn darts with metal tips have been banned due to safety concerns. Instead, modern versions of the game use soft-tipped darts for safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play the modern, safer version of lawn darts:

How to Play Lawn Darts

Objective

Score points by landing your lawn dart as close as possible to the target ring or by landing inside the target ring.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Find a spacious outdoor area with a soft, grassy surface to play.
   • Place the target ring (a plastic ring or a set of rings) on the ground at a suitable distance from the throwing line. The distance can vary depending on the players’ skill levels and space available.
2. Divide into Teams:
   • Divide players into teams. Lawn darts can be played one-on-one or in teams.
3. Decide on Points:
   • Decide on the point system. Commonly, landing a dart inside the target ring scores points, with the closest dart earning the most points.
4. Throwing Rounds:
   • Each team takes turns throwing their lawn darts at the target ring.
   • Players must stand behind the designated throwing line when throwing their darts.
5. Scoring:
   • After all darts have been thrown, assess the positions of the darts in relation to the target ring.
   • Assign points based on the agreed-upon scoring system. Typically, darts landing inside the target ring score more points than those outside the ring.
   • If multiple darts land inside the ring, the one closest to the center earns the highest points.
6. Continuing Rounds:
   • Play multiple rounds, with teams taking turns throwing their darts.
   • Keep track of each team’s total score after each round.
7. Winning the Game:
   • The game ends after a predetermined number of rounds or when a team reaches a specified point total.
   • The team with the highest total score at the end of the game wins.

Safety Tips:

• Use only modern, soft-tipped lawn darts that are designed for safe play.
• Ensure there are no obstructions or hazards in the playing area.
• Never throw lawn darts at people or animals, and always throw them underhand to reduce the risk of injury.

Modern lawn darts offer a fun outdoor activity for players of all ages, combining skill, strategy, and friendly competition in a safe and enjoyable way.

Game of 9 Lives

9 Lives is a popular darts game that requires players to maintain their lives by hitting certain areas on the dartboard while avoiding others. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play:

How to Play 9 Lives Darts

Objective

Maintain your nine lives by hitting specific areas on the dartboard while avoiding certain numbers or regions.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Decide who goes first by having each player throw one dart at the bullseye. The closest to the center starts.
   • Each player starts with nine lives.
2. Designated Numbers:
   • Certain numbers or regions on the dartboard are designated as “lives” while others are designated as “dead” zones.
   • Commonly, the double and triple of the player’s chosen number (for example, 20) are considered “lives,” while hitting the single or missing the target altogether results in losing a life.
3. Throwing Rounds:
   • Players take turns throwing three darts per round.
   • In each round, players aim to hit the designated “live” areas to maintain their lives.
4. Scoring:
   • Hitting the double or triple of the designated number adds or maintains lives.
   • Missing the designated areas or hitting the single results in losing a life.
5. Losing Lives:
   • If a player fails to hit the designated “live” areas or hits the “dead” zones, they lose a life.
   • Once a player loses all nine lives, they are eliminated from the game.
6. Continuing Play:
   • The game continues with the remaining players until only one player remains with lives.
7. Winning the Game:
   • The last player remaining with lives wins the game.

Example Turn:

• Player’s Chosen Number: 20
  1. First Dart: Hits double 20 – gains a life.
  2. Second Dart: Hits single 20 – maintains lives.
  3. Third Dart: Hits single 5 – no effect.

Tips:

• Strategic Choices: Choose your designated number wisely, considering both offensive and defensive strategies.
• Accuracy Is Key: Focus on precision to hit the designated areas consistently and maintain your lives.
• Risk Management: Balance between maximizing your lives and avoiding the “dead” zones to stay in the game.

9 Lives darts is a challenging and dynamic game that requires both skillful throwing and strategic decision-making, making it an enjoyable option for darts enthusiasts looking for a fresh twist on the classic game.

Game of Halve-It

Halve-It is a game that demands precision and concentration. The name says it all – miss a shot and see your score halved! The objective in Halve-It is to hit specified targets in a sequence; failure to do so results in your score getting cut down, making it crucial to stay sharp and focused throughout the game. This game will definitely sharpen your skills and teach you the importance of every throw. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play:

How to Play Halve-It Darts

Objective

Score as many points as possible by hitting designated numbers in sequential order. Be careful, as failing to hit the target number halves your score for that round!

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setting Up:
   • Determine the order of play. This can be decided by a simple toss of a coin or another method agreed upon by the players.
   • Each player takes turns throwing three darts per round.
2. Decide on the Sequence:
   • Agree on the sequence of numbers to be targeted. Commonly, this is 1 through 20, with the bullseye as the final target.
3. Starting the Game:
   • The first player aims at the number 1. They must hit it at least once before moving on to the next number in the sequence.
4. Scoring:
   • Players earn points based on the number they hit in the sequence.
   • If a player hits the target number, they score points equal to the face value of the segment (single, double, or triple).
   • If a player misses the target number, their score for that round is halved.
   • Scores are tallied after each round.
5. Moving to the Next Number:
   • Once a player successfully hits the target number, they move on to the next number in the sequence.
   • The game continues in this manner until all numbers in the sequence have been targeted.
6. Special Rule – Bullseye:
   • The final target is the bullseye. To complete the game, a player must hit either the inner bullseye (50 points) or the outer bullseye (25 points).
7. Winning the Game:
   • The player with the highest total score after completing all the targets wins the game.

Example Turn:

• Player’s Turn – Target: 7:
  1. First Dart: Hits single 7 – scores 7 points.
  2. Second Dart: Hits double 7 – scores 14 points.
  3. Third Dart: Misses 7 – player’s score for the round is halved.

Tips:

• Focus on Accuracy: Precision is key in Halve-It, as missing the target number halves your score for that round.
• Strategic Play: Consider your approach to each target number, aiming for high-scoring segments while minimizing the risk of missing.
• Stay Cool: Keep your composure, especially when nearing the end of the sequence, to ensure you finish strongly.

Halve-It is a thrilling game that challenges players to balance risk and reward while demonstrating their dart-throwing skills. With its simple rules and strategic depth, it’s a favorite among darts enthusiasts of all levels.

Darting to the Finish: Wrapping Up the Dart Game Journey

I’ve walked you through a host of dart games, from the timeless classics to the unconventional twists. We’ve explored the precision and practice of 301/501, the strategic battleground of Cricket, and the loop-the-clock fun of Around the Clock. We delved into specialty games where Baseball, Killer, and Shanghai brought a zesty flavor to our darting palette. And let’s not forget the playful Lawn Darts, the resilience-testing 9 Lives, and the meticulous Halve-It. Each of these variations offers a unique challenge and a new way to enjoy the competitive spirit of darts.

But this isn’t just about learning rules and sharpening skills; it’s about expanding your horizons. Darts is a social sport, one that cultivates friendships and ignites rivalries, all in good fun. By trying out different games, you’re not just becoming a more versatile player, but you’re also bringing fresh excitement to your dart nights.

Conclusion

I really hope that you grab some darts, call over friends or family, and let the games commence. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite. So, keep aiming for that bullseye, cherish the wins and the near-misses, and remember that the core of darts lies in the joy it brings to every throw. Here’s to many more games, laughter, and memories around the dartboard!

Hey! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments !!