10 Dart Board Games to Play With Family & Friends

Are your kids bored? Whether it’s summertime, spring break, or just a long weekend, cries of boredom can make you scramble for elaborate crafts, expensive activity centers, or excessive screen time.

But there’s one activity that’s cheap, takes up very little space, can be played alone or with others, and yes, was the source of trash-talking, yelling, and sometimes impromptu wrestling matches for my own family growing up. If you guessed dart board games…you might have grown up in the 90s, too!

Dart board games offer a sincerely fun, often overlooked family pastime! They encourage spending quality time together, are impervious to bad weather days (if you have a basement or garage wall), and can be played for years if you know the right dart board games (and variations of those games) to play.

Basics of Dartboard Games

Before you start passing out darts (aka tiny weapons) to your kids like Oprah, you’ll want them to understand the board components and fundamental rules.

Components of a Standard Dartboard

The standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered segments. Each segment has different point values based on where your dart lands.

Key areas include:

• Double Ring: The narrow outer ring that doubles the segment score
• Triple Ring: The narrow inner ring that triples the segment score
• Bullseye: The center of the board with two parts:
  • Outer bull (green/blue): Worth 25 points
  • Inner bull (red): Worth 50 points

The numbers on a standard dartboard aren’t arranged in numerical order. They’re placed to penalize inaccuracy, with high-value numbers typically placed next to low-value ones.

The board diameter is typically 18 inches (45.7 cm), with a playing surface of 13.5 inches (34.3 cm).

Scoring Basics

As mentioned above, the standard dartboard has 20 numbered segments arranged in a circle.

Each segment has three scoring areas: singles (the largest area), doubles (the narrow outer ring), and triples (the narrow inner ring). The very center of the board has two special zones – the inner bull’s eye (or bullseye) worth 50 points, and the outer bull worth 25 points.

When your dart lands in a single segment, you score the number shown.

Hit a double, and you get twice that number. Land in a triple, and you score three times the segment score value.

For example, hitting the triple 20 gives you 60 points – the highest point score possible with a single dart!

If your dart bounces off or falls from the board, it counts as a miss and scores zero. The first player to throw is usually decided by each dart player throwing one dart at the bullseye, with the closest dart starting.

Popular Dartboard Games

While you can always play a standard game of darts, dartboards offer a surprisingly wide variety of games for players of all skill levels.

Classic ’01 Games

The ’01 family of games are the most popular darts formats played in both professional and friendly competitions worldwide. In these games, you start with 501 (or 301 or 701) points and subtract your score after each three-dart turn.

You must finish by hitting a double or the bullseye. This is called “doubling out.”

The standard game 501 is what you’ll see in professional tournaments.

A quicker version is 301, which follows the same rules but starts with a lower score (similar to H-O-R-S-E versus P-I-G basketball games). Some variations require you to “double in” (start scoring only after hitting a double) as well as double out.

Scoring in ’01 Games:

• Singles: Face value
• Doubles: 2× face value
• Triples: 3× face value
• Bullseye: 50 points
• Outer bull: 25 points

Cricket

Cricket is a strategic target game focused on numbers 15-20 and the bullseye. The aim of the game is to “close” each number by hitting it three times.

Here’s how you play:

1. Objective: The main goal is to “close” the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye by hitting each of these targets three times. Once a number is closed, you can score points by hitting it again unless your opponent has also closed that number.
2. Setup: Players take turns throwing three darts each. To determine who goes first, players throw one dart each; the player whose dart is closest to the bullseye starts the game.
3. Gameplay:
   • Players aim to hit the numbers 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and the bullseye.
   • Each hit is counted as a “mark.” A single hit counts as one mark, a double counts as two marks, and a triple counts as three marks.
   • Once a player accumulates three marks on a number, that number is closed for them.
   • If a player hits a number after it is closed and their opponent has not yet closed it, they score points equal to the value of that number.
4. Winning: The game ends when an individual player or team closes all the numbers and has the highest score. If both players or teams have closed all the numbers, the one with the higher total score wins. If the scores are tied, the first player or team to close all numbers is the winner of the game.

Quick Cricket

Quick Cricket (or “Bar Darts”) is a faster-paced variation of the traditional cricket dart game, designed to be completed more quickly.

To make the game quicker, variations can include:

• Reducing the number of targets (e.g., only using 17, 18, 19, 20, and the bullseye).
• Reducing the number of hits needed to close a number (e.g., two hits instead of three).

Cut-Throat Cricket

Cut-throat Cricket adds a twist – you can score points against opponents who haven’t closed numbers yet. This makes it a good game for more defensive and strategic play.

Here’s how you play:

1. Objective: The goal is to have the lowest total score by the end of the game. Players still aim to close numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye but instead of scoring points for themselves, they give points to their opponents.
2. Setup: Players take turns throwing three darts each. To decide who starts, players can throw one dart each at the bullseye, with the closest dart determining the starting player.
3. Gameplay:
   • Players take turns aiming at the numbers 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and the bullseye.
   • Similar to American Cricket, each hit counts as a “mark.” A single hit counts as one mark, a double as two marks, and a triple as three marks.
   • Once a dart player accumulates three marks on a number, that number is closed for them.
   • If a player hits a number that is already closed for them but not for their opponents, the points from that hit are given to the opponents. For example, if a player hits a triple 20 and their 20s are closed but their opponents’ 20s are not, the opponents receive 60 points (20 points per hit).
4. Winning: The game ends when an individual player or team closes all the numbers and has the fewest points. If all numbers are closed, the player or team with the lowest score wins.

Baseball

Prefer red-blooded American sports? Easy peasy! Swap Cricket for Baseball!

1. Setup: This game is played over nine innings, similar to a baseball game. Each inning corresponds to a specific number on the dartboard, starting with 1 for the first inning, 2 for the second inning, and so on up to 9.
2. Turns: Players take turns throwing three darts per inning. Each player aims for the number that corresponds to the current inning. For example, in the first inning, players aim for the number 1 section of the dartboard.
3. Scoring:
   • Hitting the single area of the inning’s number scores 1 run.
   • Hitting the double ring scores 2 runs.
   • Hitting the triple ring scores 3 runs.
   • The bullseye and other numbers do not count.
4. Progression: After all players have thrown their darts for the inning, their number of points are tallied, and the game moves to the next inning.
5. Winning: The player with the highest score total after nine innings is the winner of the game.

This game combines precision and strategy, making it a fun and competitive way to enjoy darts.

Around the World

Around the World (also called “Around the Clock”) is a good game for beginners and great for practicing accuracy. The aim of the game is simple: hit every number on the board in numerical order.

Throwing just three darts at a time, you start at 1 and work your way up to 20, sometimes including the bullseye as the final target. You can only move to the next number after successfully hitting your current target.

Some fun variations include:

• Strict progression: You must hit exactly the number you’re on.
• Loose progression: Any hit counts, but you only advance after hitting your target number.
• Shanghai: Try to hit a single, double, and triple of each number as you go.

For an extra challenge, try setting a time limit or competing against friends to see who can complete the circuit fastest!

Killer

Then there are those of us who are a little darker. We don’t just want to beat our family members at darts, we want to take them out. (Just kidding!)

To play Killer on a standard dartboard, follow these steps:

1. Choosing Numbers: Each player throws a dart with their non-dominant hand to determine their number. This number will be their target for the game.
2. Becoming a Killer: Taking three-dart turns, players need to hit the double of their own number three times. Once they achieve this, they become a “Killer”.
3. Eliminating Opponents: As a Killer, the player aims to hit the doubles of other players’ numbers to eliminate them. Each hit reduces the opponent’s lives until they’ve been hit three times and are out of the game.
4. Winning the Game: The last player remaining, who has not been eliminated, is the winner of the game.

This game requires strategic play and precision, making it a fun and competitive dart game.

Adapting Games for Skill Levels

One challenge I’ve personally faced with family and friends is playing across a wide variety of skill levels. This can happen with different ages of siblings, kids and parents, or even a group of friends playing together.

If one dart player feels the game is impossible, while another feels it’s too easy, neither will truly enjoy themselves.

Luckily, most popular darts games can be easily modified to accommodate players of all skill levels, making them perfect for friendly competitions among family and friends. These adaptations ensure everyone has fun regardless of their throwing accuracy.

Beginners’ Modifications

When playing with newcomers to darts, consider starting with larger targets. Instead of aiming for specific numbers, beginners can aim for sections of the board (like quadrants) to build confidence.

You can also implement point handicaps where less experienced players start with bonus points. For example, in 501, beginners might start at 401 instead.

Cricket games are great for mixed skill groups when you add “spot points” – giving newer players a few marks on numbers before the game starts.

You can also consider these additional adjustments to make games more inclusive:

• Allow beginners extra throws per turn.
• Count the entire triple section as a hit instead of holding beginners to specific triple numbers.
• Use the “large number rule,” where hitting anywhere in a number’s section counts.

Challenges for Advanced Players

But don’t forget your more seasoned players! Tackling a challenge is what makes friendly competitions fun, and it’s no challenge at all for seasoned players if their opponents are struggling just to hit the board.

For those with more advanced darts skills, adding restrictions will create more engaging challenges. You might require closing numbers in sequence or hitting doubles to open scoring.

Try the “non-dominant hand rule” where your better players must throw with their weaker hand for some or all throws. This instantly levels the playing field!

Players with higher skill levels can also accept “call shot” requirements, where they must announce their target before throwing. If they hit something else, it doesn’t count.

A few more advanced modifications include:

• Bull-heavy scoring: Require experienced players to finish on the bullseye.
• Precision rounds: Skilled players must hit specific segments to score.
• Challenge combos: Create required sequences like “hit a triple, then a double, then a single.”

These adaptations will keep the game challenging for everyone and make your darts nights more fun for players of all skill levels!

Host Your Own Dart Tournament

Ready to spread your love of dart board games? Hosting a dart tournament can be loads of fun!

With proper planning and clear rules, you can create an enjoyable dart tournament for players of all skill levels, whether family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers.

Organizing Your Event

First, decide when and where to hold your dart tournament.

Your space (aka your very own games arena!) needs enough room for a dart board, throwing area, and your guests. Consider having players sign up in advance to know how many will attend.

Even with just one standard dartboard, you can run a successful dart tournament!

Create a schedule that gives each match enough time. Don’t rush players, but be sure to keep things moving.

Prepare these essentials:

• Dartboard(s) with good lighting
• Scorekeeping materials
• Extra sets of darts for those who need them
• Snacks and drinks for the ultimate game night

Send reminders to players the day before with important details. This will help ensure everyone arrives on time and knows what to expect.

Tournament Rules and Structure

Choose a tournament format that works for your group size.

For smaller groups (under 16 players), a single elimination bracket works well. Larger groups might require round-robin or group stages first.

Clearly explain the games you’ll play:

• 301/501: Players count down from starting score
• Cricket: Aim for numbers 15-20 and the bullseye
• Round the Clock: Hit numbers in sequence

If you have the time and space, offer a short practice game to allow players to get a feel for the space and the rules.

Set match lengths like “best of 3” or “best of 5” games. Make sure everyone understands scoring rules before you begin.

Create a simple chart to track progress and display it where everyone can see and follow along. Consider using a darts schedule maker to organize matches more efficiently.

Keep notes on what works well so you can improve the next time you host.

Understanding Dartboards

So…are you ready to set up your own dartboard?!

Dartboards come in different types, each with unique features to suit a variety of playing styles and preferences. Several key components can affect gameplay, even on a simple standard dartboard, so you’ll want to be aware of your options.

Types of Dartboards

The most popular type is the bristle dartboard, which is made from compressed sisal fibers.

A bristle dartboard is self-healing, allowing dart holes to close up after the darts are removed. They (and their steel tip darts) are the standard choice for professional players and serious dart enthusiasts.

Electronic dartboards offer automatic scoring and multiple game modes.

They’re designed for use with soft tip darts and are perfect if you’re a beginner or casual player. The sopt tip darts register hits electronically, eliminating the need for manual scoring.

Magnetic dartboards are safer for children (and walls!), making them a popular choice for parents. They use lightweight magnetic darts that stick to the board rather than penetrate it.

Paper dartboards are inexpensive options but wear out quickly and aren’t ideal for regular play.

Dartboard Setup and Maintenance

You’ll want to hang your dartboard with the bullseye 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor. The throwing line (oche) should be 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the board.

To extend your dartboard’s life, rotate it regularly.

Most boards have a removable number ring. Turn it periodically to distribute wear evenly, as some numbers get hit more often than others.

Keep your dartboard away from excessive moisture, which can cause the fibers to swell. Don’t clean it with water or cleaning products.

Proper dart tips help minimize damage—steel tips for bristle boards and soft tip darts for electronic boards. When your darts bounce out frequently, it might be time to replace your board.

So…which dart board games will you try first?

Have any family favorites I forgot to mention? Be sure to share them in the comments!

Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun dart games suitable for adult gatherings?

For adult gatherings, several fun dart board games can keep everyone entertained.

“Around the Clock” is perfect for parties. Players take turns trying to hit numbers 1 through 20 in numerical order. The first player to complete the sequence wins!

“Killer” adds strategy and suspense. Each player claims a number as their “life” and tries to eliminate others by hitting their numbers. This game creates playful rivalries and lots of laughs.

“Cricket” is also a good game for groups. Teams compete to “close” numbers 15-20 and the bullseye while scoring points. It balances darts skills and strategy perfectly for adult gatherings.

Which dart board games are perfect for a matchup between two players?

“301” or “501” are classic two-player games. You start with 301 or 501 points and race to zero by subtracting your throws. The twist? You must finish with a double or bullseye!

“Baseball” offers a simpler alternative. Players take turns throwing at numbers 1-9 (like innings in baseball). Each hit on the current inning number counts as a run.

“Round the World” creates a fun head-to-head challenge. Players race to hit each number on the board in sequence. This game tests accuracy without complex scoring, making it one of the most casual games.

Can you suggest some fun dart games that are kid-friendly?

“Balloon Pop” is perfect for children. Attach balloons to a soft dart board and let kids try to pop them. The bright colors and satisfying pops keep young ones engaged.

“Odd or Even” simplifies gameplay for kids. Players aim for either odd or even numbers. Points accumulate based on successful hits on their assigned number type.

What rules and strategies are involved in the dart game called ‘Cricket’?

In Cricket, players aim to “close” numbers 15-20 and the bullseye. You need three hits on each number to close it. Only closed numbers earn points when hit.

Strategic players often target their opponents’ open high-value numbers first. This allows you to rack up points before your opponent can close those numbers.

Defensive play matters too. If your opponent is scoring on a particular number, prioritize closing it quickly.

Balance between offense (scoring points) and defense (closing numbers) is key to mastery.

Are there any engaging dart board games available to play online?

Many mobile apps offer virtual dart experiences. These games use touch or motion controls to simulate throwing darts. Some even include multiplayer options to compete with friends remotely.

Online dart simulators provide realistic physics and authentic board designs. You can practice your technique or learn new games without a physical setup.

Video game consoles often feature dart mini-games within sports collections. These games sometimes include motion controls for a more immersive experience.

What are the easiest dart board games for beginners to learn and play?

“Straight Scoring” couldn’t be simpler. Just add up the points where your darts land. Whoever holds the highest number of points after a set number of rounds wins. This helps beginners understand the board layout.

“Count Up” is another beginner-friendly option. Start at zero and add points with each throw. First player to reach a target score (like 300) wins. This builds confidence as your score continuously grows.

American-style darts use a wooden board with softer darts. These are often easier for beginners since they stick better and cause less damage when missing the board.

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