30 Fun Dart Games to Play – The Ultimate Dartboard Guide

Looking for new dart games to play? Whether you’re hosting a friendly match at home, competing in a pub league, or teaching beginners, this guide collects the best dartboard games, from classic 501 and Cricket to creative party variations that keep every throw exciting.

This ultimate list of 30 dartboard games covers quick party ideas, accuracy challenges, elimination formats, and strategy-focused play. Pick a few for tonight, rotate game types, and keep your dart nights fresh for every skill level.

Popular Types of Dartboard Games

Most dart games fall into a handful of easy-to-understand groups. Mix at least one from each to create a great game-night rotation:

• Scoring / Countdown Games — Race from a starting score to zero (e.g., 301/501/701).
• Target / Accuracy Games — Hit numbers in order or specific segments (Around the Clock, Chase the Dragon).
• Elimination Games — Last player standing wins (Killer, Knockout, Sudden Death).
• Party & Strategy Games — Creative twists and team play (Mickey Mouse, Castle, Baseball, Shanghai).

A Brief History of Dart Games

Darts evolved from medieval soldiers throwing shortened arrows at wine barrel bottoms to the standardized numbered dartboard we know today. What began as military training became the cornerstone of pub culture in Britain, eventually growing into a global phenomenon enjoyed by millions of players worldwide.

Here’s Our List of Dartboard Games to Play:

• The ’01
• 51 by 5’s
• Around the Clock
• 180 Around the Clock
• Chase the Dragon
• American Cricket
• English Cricket
• Hare and Hound
• Killer
• Knockout
• Mickey Mouse
• Nine Lives
• Tic-Tac-Toe
• Shanghai
• Tennis
• Mulligan
• Baseball
• Halve-It
• Football
• Follow the Leader
• Blind Killers
• Looper
• Prisoner
• Scram
• Snooker
• Grand National
• Sudden Death
• Castle
• Gotcha
• High/Low

The ’01 (301/501/701) — Classic Dartboard Game

Players required: 1 or more

Players are assigned scores at the beginning of the match – 301, 501, and 701.

The player wins by reducing their points to 0. Each part of the board carries a different score. To finish and win the game, you must hit a double. For example, with a score of 16 remaining, a player can win by hitting a double 8.

51 by 5’s

Players required: 2 or more

In 51 by 5’s, players take turns throwing three darts each and aim to accumulate a total score of exactly 51 points. The game incorporates specific scoring rules to determine how points are earned:

1. Scoring: The scoring system in 51 by 5’s assigns different values to specific areas of the dartboard. The standard scoring applies to the numbered sections of the dartboard, where hitting a number corresponds to its face value (e.g., hitting 20 scores of 20 points).
2. Multipliers: Players can further increase their score by hitting certain segments of the dartboard. Hitting a double (outer ring) multiplies the score of that segment by 2, while hitting a triple (inner ring) multiplies the score by 3.
3. Subtraction: In 51 by 5’s, players start with a score of 51 and aim to reduce it to exactly zero. However, the twist is that any score exceeding 51 is deducted from the total score. For example, if a player has a total of 48 points and scores 20, their score would be reduced to 28 instead of increasing.

Players strategically aim to accumulate points by hitting specific segments and using combinations of singles, doubles, and trebles to reach the target score of 51. They must carefully consider their remaining score and choose the most optimal throwing strategy to minimize deductions and maximize their chances of reaching zero.

The game of 51 by 5’s can be played individually or in teams, with each player or team taking turns until someone reaches the target score or comes closest to zero.

Around the Clock

Players required: 1 or more

The “Around the Clock” dart game is a fun and challenging game that tests a player’s accuracy and consistency. The objective of the game is to hit each number on the dartboard in numerical order, starting from 1 and going all the way up to 20. Players take turns throwing darts at the corresponding number on the dartboard, trying to land their darts in the designated target area.

Once a player successfully hits the current number, they move on to the next one. The game continues until a player hits the final number 20, completing the “clock.” The player who finishes the clock in the fewest number of turns or with the lowest score wins the game. “Around the Clock” is a popular dart game that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels and provides a great opportunity to improve accuracy and precision while having fun.

180 Around the Clock

Players required: 1 or more

The maximum score you can get is 180. The aim is to hit each number three times. A single dart each time on the designated number equals a score of 60, and a triple hit each time will get you 180.

Chase the Dragon

Players required: 1 or more

“Chase the Dragon” is one of the most loved dart games. The game is played with multiple players, each taking turns to throw three darts per round. The objective is to score as many points as possible by hitting designated target areas on the dartboard. Players aim to hit specific numbers on the dartboard in ascending order, starting from the number 1. However, players must hit each number twice before moving on to the next.

Once a player hits a number twice, it becomes “captured”, and they can move on to the next number. The twist in the game comes with the “Dragon.” The Dragon is a predetermined number that players must avoid hitting throughout the game. If a player hits the Dragon number, their turn ends immediately, and their score for that round is reset to zero. The game continues until all the numbers have been captured, and the player with the highest overall score is declared the winner. “Chase the Dragon” is an engaging and strategic dart game that requires precision, decision-making, and a bit of luck to come out on top.

American Cricket

Players required: 2 or more

“American Cricket” is a popular dart game that adds a strategic twist to the traditional game of cricket. The game is played between two or more players or teams, and the objective is to score points by hitting specific numbers on the dartboard. In “American Cricket,” the numbers 20 through 15, and the inner and outer bull are the target areas. Players take turns throwing their darts and aim to hit these numbers to score points. To score points, a player must hit each number three times, opening it, and they can then begin scoring on that number.

The bullseye can be opened by hitting it once. Once a player or team has opened a number, they can score points by hitting that number or the bullseye. The game continues until all players or teams have opened all the numbers and the bullseye. The player or team with the highest total points at the end of the game is declared the winner. “American Cricket” offers a strategic challenge as players must decide which numbers to prioritize and aim for to gain an advantage over their opponents. It is a thrilling and competitive dart game that tests players’ accuracy and decision-making skills.​

English Cricket

Players required: 2 or more

“English Cricket” is a popular dart game that puts a unique spin on the traditional game of cricket. It is played between two or more players or teams and follows a similar scoring system to the standard game. In “English Cricket,” the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye are the target areas. Each player takes turns throwing their darts, aiming to score points by hitting these numbers. To score points, a player must hit each number three times, opening it, and they can then begin scoring on that number. The bullseye can be opened by hitting it once. Once a player or team has closed a number, they can score points by hitting that number or the bullseye.

However, in “English Cricket,” hitting a number that is not yet opened by the opponent will result in negative points. The negative points are equal to the value of the hit number. The game continues until all players or teams have opened all the numbers and the bullseye. The player or team with the highest total points at the end of the game is declared the winner. “English Cricket” adds an extra level of strategy and risk-taking to the game, as players must balance their aim for closed numbers while avoiding negative points from hitting open numbers. It is a challenging and exciting dart game that tests players’ skills and decision-making abilities.

Hare and Hound

Players required: 2 or more

“Hare and Hound” is a thrilling and competitive dart game that tests players’ accuracy and strategy. It is played between two or more players or teams, and the objective is to be the first player or team to reach a designated point total. The game is played on a numbered dartboard, and each player takes turns throwing their darts. The player who goes first is the “Hare,” while the other players are the “Hounds.” The “Hare” starts by choosing a target number on the dartboard. The “Hare” must hit that target number in order to score points. The other players, the “Hounds,” must hit different target numbers, which are determined by multiplying or dividing the “Hare’s” target number. For example, if the “Hare” hits a triple 20, the “Hounds” can aim for a single 20, double 10, or a triple 5.

The “Hounds” can only score points if they hit their designated target number before the “Hare” hits theirs. If the “Hare” hits their target number first, they earn points, and the other players do not. The game continues with players taking turns as the “Hare,” and the first player or team to reach the predetermined point total is the winner. “Hare and Hound” requires both accuracy and strategy, as players must choose their target numbers wisely and aim to hit them before their opponents. It is a fast-paced and competitive dart game that guarantees excitement and suspense until the very end.

Killer

Players required: 2 or more

“Killer” is an intense and competitive dart game that challenges players’ accuracy and strategic thinking. It is typically played with three or more players, and the objective is to be the last player standing. In “Killer,” each player takes turns throwing their darts, aiming to hit specific target numbers on the dartboard. The target numbers are determined at the beginning of the game, often randomly or by mutual agreement. The aim is to hit each target number five times to become a “killer” and gain the ability to eliminate other players from the game. Once a player becomes a “killer,” they can aim to hit the target numbers of their opponents. If a “killer” successfully hits an opponent’s target number, the opponent loses a life and is one step closer to being eliminated.

However, if a killer hits their own number, they lose a life instead. The game continues with players taking turns, and the last player remaining with lives intact is declared the winner. “Killer” requires precision and strategy, as players must choose their target numbers strategically and aim to eliminate their opponents while protecting themselves. It is a thrilling and competitive dart game that keeps players engaged and on their toes until the very end.​

Knockout

Players required: 2 or more

“Knockout” is a fast-paced and exciting dart game that tests players’ accuracy and resilience under pressure. It can be played with any number of players, and the objective is to be the last player remaining in the game. In “Knockout,” each player takes turns throwing their darts at a predetermined target, usually the bullseye or a specific number on the dartboard. The players aim to hit the target with their darts, and if they succeed, they advance to the next round.

However, if a player fails to hit the target with their dart, they are eliminated from the game. The game continues with the remaining players taking turns, eliminating one player at a time until only one player remains as the winner. “Knockout” is a game that requires precision and composure, as players must maintain their focus while facing the pressure of potentially being eliminated with each throw. It is a thrilling and competitive dart game that keeps players engaged and provides an adrenaline-filled experience.

Mickey Mouse

Players required: 2 or more

Nine Lives

Players required: 2 or more

In the game of Nine Lives, players aim to hit numbers one through nine in sequential order. Each player starts with nine “lives” or attempts to complete the sequence. The objective is to hit each number while preserving as many lives as possible.

Players take turns throwing three darts each. They aim to hit the targeted number corresponding to their current position in the sequence. For instance, if a player is on number three, they need to hit the “3” segment of the dartboard.

If a scorer successfully hits the correct number, they advance to the next one in the sequence. However, if they miss the target or hit a different number with their last dart, they lose a life. The game continues until a player completes the sequence by hitting number nine or until all players exhaust their nine lives.

Tic-Tac-Toe

Players required: 2 or more

In Dart Tic-Tac-Toe, players take turns throwing darts at a large, segmented dartboard. The objective is to create a winning pattern of three marks in a row—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally—similar to the original game of tic-tac-toe.

To begin, a standard tic-tac-toe grid is drawn on the dartboard, typically consisting of nine squares arranged in a 3×3 formation. Each square represents a possible target for a dart throw.

Players alternate turns, aiming their darts at the desired square on the board. The goal is to land a dart accurately within the chosen square. If successful, the player marks that square with their designated mark (e.g., “X” or “O”).

The game continues until one player successfully creates a winning line of three marks in a row, thereby achieving a tic-tac-toe pattern. This can be accomplished horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The player who achieves this winning pattern first is declared the winner of the game.

Shanghai

Players required: 2 or more

Shanghai is an exciting dart game that challenges players to hit specific segments of the dartboard in a strategic and skillful manner. The game is typically played with multiple players, and the objective is to accumulate the highest score within a predetermined number of rounds.

In Shanghai, each round focuses on a specific number on the dartboard. The game is usually played with rounds ranging from 1 to 7, but this can vary depending on preferences. For example, in the first round, players aim to hit the number 1 segment of the dartboard. In the second round, they target the number 2, and so on.

The scoreboard in Shanghai involves multiplying the score of each dart by the corresponding round number. So, in the first round, hitting a single 1 would earn the player 1 point, hitting a double 1 would earn 2 points, and hitting a triple 1 would earn 3 points. This scoring pattern applies to subsequent rounds as well.

In addition to targeting the designated number for each round, Shanghai incorporates a special rule called “Shanghai.” If a player manages to hit a single, double, and triple of the designated number within a single turn, they achieve a “Shanghai” and earn a bonus. The bonus can vary but is typically a high number, such as 25 or 50 points.

The game progresses through each round, with players taking turns and accumulating scores based on their successful hits and achieving Shanghais when possible. The player with the highest total score at the end of the predetermined rounds is declared the winner of the game.

Tennis

Players required: 2 or more

In Dart Tennis, players take turns throwing darts and aim to score points by hitting specific areas of the dartboard. The game is typically played with two players or two teams.

The scoring system in Tennis is based on the numbering and layout of the dartboard. Each segment on the dartboard corresponds to a specific point value. For instance, hitting the number 20 segment scores 20 points, the number 19 segment scores 19 points, and so on.

To mirror the scoring system in tennis, the game of Dart Tennis follows similar rules:

1. 1. Love: At the beginning of the game, both players or teams start with a score of “love” or zero.
   2. Scoring: Players accumulate points by hitting numbered segments on the dartboard. The points scored in a single turn are added to the player’s or team’s score. For example, hitting a double 20 would score 40 points.
   3. Deuce: When both players or teams reach a score of 40 points, it is referred to as “deuce.” From deuce, players must score two consecutive points to win the game.
   4. Advantage: If a player or team scores a point after a deuce, they gain the “advantage.” However, they must score another point to win the game. If they fail to score on their next turn, the score returns to a deuce.
   5. Game and Set: Players continue to accumulate points to win games and sets, similar to a tennis match. The number of games and sets required to win the match can be predetermined.​

Mulligan

Players required: 2 or more

In Mulligan, players take turns throwing darts and aim to accumulate points by hitting specific areas of the dartboard. The objective is to achieve the highest score possible within a predetermined number of rounds.

The game incorporates the concept of “mulligans” or “do-overs.” A mulligan is an extra attempt given to a player who fails to score on their initial throw. It provides an opportunity to improve their score or make up for a missed opportunity.

The rules of Mulligan can vary, but generally, each player starts with a set number of mulligans, such as three or five, for the entire game. Whenever a player fails to score points with a dart, they can choose to use a mulligan to retake that particular throw.

The mulligan must be declared and used immediately after the unsuccessful throw, before the next player takes their turn. When a mulligan is utilized, the player gets another chance to throw the dart at the desired target in the hope of scoring points.

The game continues with players taking turns, accumulating points, and utilizing mulligans as needed. The player with the highest total score at the end of the predetermined rounds or when mulligans are exhausted is declared the winner.

Baseball

Players required: 2 or more

In Baseball darts, players aim to accumulate points by hitting specific areas on the dartboard that represent bases and scoring zones. The game is typically played with two teams or players.

The game of Baseball follows these key rules:

1. Bases: The dartboard is divided into specific areas representing bases. Usually, the segments for numbers 1, 2, 3, and bullseye represent the first, second, third bases, and home plate, respectively.
2. Scoring: Players score points based on the area they hit on the dartboard. Hitting a segment that represents an unoccupied base (e.g., a single, double, triple, or home run segment) earns the player the corresponding number of points. The bullseye segments can represent a hit or an out, depending on the agreed-upon rules.
3. Advancement: When a player scores a hit, they can advance their “runners” (represented by imaginary players on bases) by the number of bases indicated by the segment they hit. For example, hitting a segment that represents a double would advance all runners on base by two bases.
4. Outs: Depending on the rules, certain dartboard segments, such as the bullseye or specific sections of the dartboard, can be designated as outs. Hitting these segments would result in an out for the batter.
5. Innings and Runs: The game progresses through innings, with each player or team alternating turns. Players score runs by advancing runners and bringing them home to score. The team with the most runs at the end of a predetermined number of innings wins the game.

Halve-It

Players required: 2 or more

In Halve-It, players take turns throwing darts and aim to score points by hitting designated segments of the dartboard. The game typically consists of several rounds, with each round focusing on a different target area.

The gameplay of Halve-It follows these basic rules:

1. 1. Target Areas: Each round has a specific target area or segment on the dartboard. The target areas are usually different sections or numbers, such as 20, 19, 18, and so on. The target areas may vary depending on the preferences of the players.
   2. Scoring: Players earn points based on the target area for the current round. The score earned from hitting a specific segment is determined by multiplying the value of that segment by a predetermined factor. For example, if the factor is 2 and the target area is 20, hitting a single 20 would score 20 points, a double 20 would score 40 points, and so on.
   3. Advancing to the Next Round: To advance to the next round, players must successfully hit the target area and accumulate the required number of points. If a player fails to reach the required score for the round, they do not progress, and their score remains as it is.
   4. Halving: The game also incorporates the concept of “halving.” If a player misses their target on all three tries, their overall score gets halved.
   5. Winning: The game continues until all the rounds are completed. The player with the highest total score at the end of the game is declared the winner.

Football

Players required: 2 or more

Football Darts is inspired by American football and played by two teams or just two players. The goal is to move across the dartboard “field” and reach the other team’s “end zone” to score points.

The game uses parts of the dartboard around numbers 11, 6, and the bullseye. The doubles of 11 and 6 are the end zones for each team.

Teams take turns being on offense and defense. On offense, a team has four chances (“downs”) to advance by hitting specific sections: they start by hitting targets on their side near 11, then move towards the bullseye, and finally through the opponent’s side near 6 to reach the end zone and score a “touchdown.”

After a touchdown, the team tries a “field goal” by hitting any part of the 20 section for extra points.

If a team doesn’t score within their four downs, the other team gets the ball from where they left off.

You can play for a set time or number of rounds. Points are scored like football: 6 points for a touchdown, plus 1 for a successful field goal.

It’s a fun mix of darts and football strategy that’s easy to learn once you get the hang of the rules!

Follow the Leader

Players required: 2 or more

Follow the Leader is an easy and fun dart game that works best with several players. It’s similar to the basketball game “Horse.” Everyone starts with three lives, and the goal is to be the last person with any lives left.

The first player throws one dart to pick a target on the board, like a specific section or the bullseye. That exact spot is written down for everyone to see. The next player must then try to hit that same spot with up to three darts. If they miss all three, they lose a life. If they hit it, they can use any remaining darts to choose a new target. The last dart they throw becomes the new target for the next player.

For example, if the target is a single 5 and the player hits it on the first dart, they have two more darts to aim at a new spot. The last dart they land on will be the new target. But if they miss the new target on their last dart, they lose a life, and the target stays the same for the next player.

If a player picks a target and everyone else fails to hit it, that player can skip their next turn and keep the same target. However, if they decide to throw again, they must hit the target or lose a life.

A good tip is to make sure your last dart stays on the board when picking a new target. Avoid risky shots that might bounce off and cost you a life.

Blind Killers

Players required: 2 or more

Players’ names are written down the left side of the scoreboard in any order. Usually, the player who is eliminated first gets to throw first in the next game. To decide the first throw in the original game, all players throw one dart, and the closest to the bullseye goes first.

Next to each player’s name, put three marks to show how many lives they have left. The game plays like the standard Killers’ game, but no one knows other players’ numbers. Here’s a quick overview if you don’t know how to play Killers:

Numbers 1 through 20 are written on slips of paper and placed in a hat. Each player draws a slip and keeps that number secret—that number is theirs for the whole game. You don’t start by throwing at your double, because that would reveal your number. Instead, you begin by throwing any bullseye, inner or outer.

The game depends on honesty and good memory. Players must watch their own number carefully and keep track of their lives. When you lose your third life, you sit out and watch the rest of the game. The last player with lives left wins.

You can change the difficulty based on skill level: use doubles and triples for experienced players, or bigger sections for beginners. The game is mostly luck, but you can get clues by watching where others hit your number. Have fun, and may the best player win!

Looper

Players required: 2 or more

Each player starts with 3 to 5 lives. The first player throws a dart with their non-dominant hand to pick the target segment on the board. The target includes the exact part of the segment, like inner or outer singles.

Other players then try to hit that exact target. If a player misses, they lose a life.

If everyone misses the target, the player who set it doesn’t have to throw and can sit out until someone hits it. If they choose to play, they must hit the current target before setting a new one.

When a player hits the target, they use any remaining darts to set a new target. If the target is hit on the third dart, the player can pull their darts and throw again to pick a new target.

Players can stop throwing anytime while setting a new target. The last dart thrown becomes the new target. If the last dart misses, they lose a life.

Only numbers with closed loops count as targets. These are 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 16, 18, 19, and 20. Your dart must land inside the loop to count.

If a player loses all their lives, they’re out. The game ends when only one player has lives left.

Write players’ names on the left side of the board and mark their lives with 3 or 5 “I” marks. Erase a mark each time a player misses a target or fails to set a new one.

When setting a target, try to make it hard for others. Use your first two darts for tough targets like the loop of 6, then use the third dart to make sure you hit the board and don’t lose a life.

Prisoner

Players required: 2 or more

In Prisoner’s, each player tries to hit every number from 1 to 20 in order, going clockwise. Only the double, treble, and outer single parts of each number count. Hitting the inner single or bullseye doesn’t help, and those darts become “prisoners.”

If a dart lands in the inner single or bullseye, it stays there and becomes a prisoner. Any player can capture a prisoner dart by hitting the same number in the outer single, treble, or double. Once a dart is captured, it belongs to the new player.

If a dart lands outside the double ring (off the board), you can’t use it again until after your next turn.

Bullseye darts can be freed either by hitting any part of the number (easy mode) or only by hitting the bullseye itself, with just one dart allowed there at a time (hard mode).

More than one dart can be stuck in the same number, but only one can be freed per hit.

You win by either hitting every number from 1 to 20 in order first or capturing all the other players’ darts.

Scram

Players required: 2

Scram is a dart game for two players, with one acting as the “stopper” and the other as the “scorer”. The game uses numbers 1–20 and the bullseye, with standard scoring. Each game has two rounds, so both players get to play each role. Whoever goes first becomes the stopper in the first round.

The stopper’s goal is to shut down numbers by hitting them, making them unavailable for scoring. The scorer aims to earn as many points as possible using numbers that haven’t been closed yet.

Each turn, the stopper throws three darts to close numbers. Then the scorer throws three darts to score on the remaining open numbers. Doubles and triples count for double and triple points.

This continues until the stopper closes all numbers. Players then switch roles and repeat the process. After both rounds, the player with the higher score wins.

Snooker

Players required: 2 or more

Snooker darts work like real snooker. Numbers on the dartboard represent balls, and each is worth a certain number of points. The goal is to score the most points by hitting numbers in the correct order.

To start, all players throw one dart at the bullseye. Closest goes first.

• 1-15 = red balls worth 1 point
• 16 = yellow ball worth 2 points
• 17 = green ball worth 3 points
• 18 = brown ball worth 4 points
• 19 = blue ball worth 5 points
• 20 = pink ball worth 6 points
• Bullseye = black ball worth 7 points

If you hit a red, choose a coloured ball (16–20 or bull) and say which one you’re aiming for before you throw.

Keep alternating red–colour–red–colour, etc., as long as you keep hitting your targets. After hitting a red, it’s removed from play.

Missing your declared target ends your turn. You get a penalty of 4 points (or the ball’s value, whichever is higher). If you hit a red while aiming for a colour, there’s no penalty—it just counts as a miss.

Once all 15 reds are gone, players must hit the colours in order: yellow → green → brown → blue → pink → black. If you hit one out of order, that’s a 4-point (or ball value) penalty.

A dart that falls out is a 4-point penalty. A dart on the outer ring is just a miss—no points or penalty.

The game ends when all balls are cleared. The highest total score wins.

Grand National

Players required: 2 or more

This is a fun dart game inspired by the famous Grand National horse race. I came up with this after watching the race at a local pub, where many fans were betting on the horses and enjoying some drinks. The dartboard was only used by the regular players, so I wanted to create a game that would invite more people to join in and enjoy darts.

This game mimics the excitement of the Grand National, a well-known horse race that involves running two laps and jumping fences, where the first to finish wins, but many horses don’t make it to the end!

The game is simple to play and great for beginners, but you can add more challenges as you get better. Below are the basic rules perfect for newcomers, followed by a more advanced version for experienced players.

Sudden Death

Players required: 2 or more

Sudden Death is a fast-paced, competitive darts game that’s best with a group. Each round, all players throw three darts. After everyone has taken their turn, the player with the lowest score is eliminated. If there’s a tie for the lowest score, those players each throw one dart in a tiebreaker until someone loses. At the start of each new round, scores reset, and the remaining players throw again. The game continues like this until only one player remains.

Castle

Players required: 2 or more

Castle is a fun and competitive darts game where players score on their own number while trying to stop others from scoring on theirs. It’s great for two or more players and works especially well in groups.

To start, each player is assigned a unique number on the dartboard, either by throwing a dart with their non-dominant hand or choosing numbers randomly. The goal is to be the first to score 15 points on your own number—singles are worth one point, doubles are worth two, and trebles are worth three.

Players take turns aiming at their own number to build up points, but they can also target other players’ numbers to take points away. Hitting someone else’s number subtracts the same value: one for a single, two for a double, and three for a treble. However, no player’s score can go below zero.

The first player to reach 15 points wins, though you can change the target score for longer or shorter games.

Gotcha

Players required: 2 or more

In Gotcha, the aim is to reach a set target score without going over, similar to a reverse 501 or a tougher version of count-up.

You can pick any target score, like 301 or 501, or even 200 or 400. Once the target is set, the game begins.

Each player throws three darts per turn, trying to score points to reach the target number. It’s like 301 or 501, but with two key differences.

First, you don’t need to hit a double to win, just reach the target score without exceeding it.

Second, you can knock another player’s score down to zero by matching their score exactly. For example, if Player 1 has 87 points and Player 2 has 100, Player 1 can score 13 points to reach 100, which resets Player 2’s score back to zero.

This adds strategy, making being in the lead not always a good thing. It’s also why choosing a very high target score can be tricky, as catching up gets harder.

Like 01 games, if you go over the target, you “bust”—lose any remaining darts that turn, and your score returns to what it was before your turn started.

High/Low

Players required: 2 or more

High / Low Darts Rules

In High Darts, after deciding the playing order, the first player throws two darts simultaneously. The total of these two darts sets the starting target score, which is recorded on the board. If a dart misses the board, it counts as zero. That player’s turn ends there.

The next player then throws three darts one by one, aiming to beat the current target score—matching it doesn’t count. If they don’t exceed the target, they lose a “life.” Whatever score they achieve becomes the new target for the next player. The game continues with a new target each round.

Players start with three lives, and losing all three means elimination. The game continues until only one player remains.

Low Darts starts similarly, with the first player setting the target score by throwing two darts at once.

However, the next player must try to score lower than the target using their three darts. In this version, the bullseye scores negative points (inner bull = -50, outer bull = -25), while missing the board adds 25 points, so missing on purpose is not beneficial.

Scores can drop below zero, making the game a contest to hit bullseyes, with missing heavily penalized. The target score updates each round based on the previous player’s total, and play continues until one player is left.

For scoring, write players’ names down the side of the board and mark three lives next to each name. Record the target score at the top, updating it each round.

If a player fails to beat (in High) or go below (in Low) the target score, they lose a life. Losing all three lives eliminates that player from the game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of dartboard games offers a vast array of options to entertain and challenge players of all levels. From classic favorites like ’01 to lesser-known gems like Shanghai and Hare and Hound, there’s a dart game to play for every preference and skill set.

Whether you’re looking for a casual game to spice up your dart nights with friends or seeking intense competition in a tournament setting, the variety of dart games provides endless possibilities. Dart games foster camaraderie and friendly competition, bringing people together to share laughter, excitement, and memorable moments.

So, gather your friends, prepare your darts, and try a handful of the games above. Rotate scoring, target, elimination, and party formats—and your board will never feel stale.

Dart Games FAQs

What dart games are there to play?

Popular dartboard games include 501/301, Cricket, Around the Clock, Killer, Shanghai, Halve-It, Knockout, and Baseball. Mix formats for variety.

What is the best dart game for beginners?

501 (or 301) teaches scoring and finishing; Around the Clock builds accuracy. Start there before moving to Cricket or Killer.

How many dartboard games exist?

There are well over 50 known dartboard games, but most players regularly rotate 10–15 classics plus a few party variations.