Darts is a staple of pubs and basements, and the same board supports a range of games. This guide covers the most common ones and the basic rules each uses. Small details, such as whether you need to “double in,” differ between groups, so confirm the rules before you throw.
The most popular dart game
501 is generally the best-known game and is widely used in tournaments. Cricket is also a staple in bars and leagues. For a first game with friends, Around the Clock is the easiest to learn.
Basics that apply to most games
- Players take turns in rotation, throwing three darts per turn.
- To decide who starts, each player throws one dart at the bullseye, and the closest begins. A coin toss also works.
- A dart that misses, bounces out, or falls from the board scores nothing.
- A dart that sticks in another dart counts as a throw but does not score.
- Score is based on where the dart enters the board, according to the wire divisions, not the color.
- The outer thin ring scores double, and the inner thin ring scores triple.
Setting up the board
A standard steel-tip board is usually hung with the bullseye about 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m) from the floor. The throwing line, called the oche, is typically 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 m) from the face of the board. Soft-tip electronic boards may use a different distance, so check the manual. Put a protector behind the board, and keep the area free of people walking through.
501 and 301
In 501, each player starts with 501 points and subtracts each dart’s score. The goal is to hit exactly zero, and the final dart must land in a double (the bullseye counts as a double in most rules). If you go past zero, or leave yourself on 1, the turn is a “bust” and your score returns to what it was before that turn.
301 follows the same idea but starts with a lower total, so games are shorter. Some versions also require a double to start scoring, which is called “double in.” Many casual games skip that for simplicity.
Cricket
Cricket uses only the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye. To “close” a number, you need three marks on it: a single is one mark, a double is two, and a triple is three. Once you have closed a number, you score points each time you hit it, as long as your opponent has not closed it too. To win, you close all the numbers and have at least as many points as your opponent.
Around the Clock
Around the Clock, also called Around the World, is a simple game that suits beginners. You must hit the numbers 1 to 20 in order, and the first to finish wins. A common variation adds the bullseye at the end. Another allows doubles and triples to advance you more than one number.
Killer
Killer needs three or more players. Each player gets their own number on the board. You first hit the double of your own number to become a “killer.” Once you are a killer, you throw at other players’ numbers to take away their lives. The last player with lives left wins. Setup details, such as how numbers are chosen and how many lives each player has, vary by group.
Shanghai
Shanghai is played over a series of rounds, each assigned a number, such as 1 through 7. In each turn, you try to score on that round’s number. Hitting a single, a double and a triple of the target number in one turn is a “Shanghai,” which in many versions wins immediately. Otherwise, the highest total at the end of the game wins.
What is a good beginner dart?
If you mean a good beginner game, start with Around the Clock, then move to 301 and Cricket as your aim improves. If you mean equipment, a moderate-weight dart with a comfortable grip is generally a safe starting point, though preferences vary.
Basic rules of darts for two players
Two players can play any game above. The simplest is 301 or 501: take turns throwing three darts, subtract the total, and race to finish exactly on zero with a double. More two-person ideas are in games to play with your roommate.
Can I play darts against a computer?
Yes. Many electronic dartboards have built-in computer opponents, and some apps offer them too. Availability depends on the product, so check the features before you buy.
Safety
Darts are sharp. Keep children away from throwing lanes, throw only when the area ahead is clear, and walk to the board to collect darts only when everyone has finished. If alcohol is involved, be especially careful, or take a break from throwing.
For more ideas that work alongside darts at a gathering, see happy hour games and washer toss. If you also like outdoor target games, see games to play while golfing.