×
Darts Dartsboards

35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

The dartboard

35 Ways to Play Dartboard – The Ultimate Guide to Dart Games (With Detailed Rules)

35_ways_to_play_dartboard_infographic 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

Darts is far more than just throwing arrows at a board. It’s a game of precision, strategy, math, and fun, enjoyed casually at home and competitively in pubs and tournaments worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner, a family player, or a seasoned darts enthusiast, knowing different dartboard games keeps the experience fresh and exciting.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover 35 different ways to play dartboard games, each explained in detail, including objectives, scoring rules, and ideal player types.

Classic & Most Popular Dartboard Games

classic_and_popular_dartboard_games-1 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

1. 501 Darts

Best for: Competitive play
Each player starts with 501 points. The goal is to reduce your score to exactly zero, finishing on a double. If you go below zero, the turn is void (called a “bust”).

2. 301 Darts

A shorter version of 501, starting at 301 points. Ideal for beginners or quick games.

3. Cricket

Best for: Strategy lovers
Players must “close” numbers 15–20 and the bullseye by hitting each number three times. Once closed, points can be scored until all players close the same number.

4. Killer

Each player is assigned a number. After hitting your number three times, you become a “killer” and can eliminate opponents by hitting their numbers.

5. Around the Clock

Players must hit numbers 1 through 20 in order, finishing with the bullseye. Accuracy matters more than power.

6. Shanghai

Played over 7 or 20 rounds, each round targets a specific number. A “Shanghai” (single + double + triple of the same number in one turn) wins instantly.

7. High Score

Players throw three darts per round. The player with the highest total score after a set number of rounds wins.

8. Double In / Double Out

Players must start scoring with a double and finish with a double, increasing difficulty and precision.

9. Count Up

Everyone starts at zero. After a fixed number of rounds, the player with the highest score wins.

10. Halve-It

Miss the target number for a round and your score is halved. Encourages focus and pressure handling.

Fun & Casual Dartboard Games

fun_and_casual_dartboard_games 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

11. Baseball Darts

Played over 9 innings, matching baseball scoring. Each inning corresponds to a number on the board.

12. 9 Lives

Each miss costs a life. Lose all 9 lives and you’re out.

13. Gotcha

Players try to hit higher scores than opponents. If matched, scores reset to zero.

14. Hare and Hounds

One player chases another around the board. Strategic blocking and speed are key.

15. Football (Soccer) Darts

Players “score goals” by hitting doubles and bullseyes.

16. Golf Darts

Each hole is a number. Fewer darts = better score, just like golf.

17. Knockout

Lowest score each round is eliminated until one player remains.

18. Bingo Bango Bongo

First to hit a single, double, and triple of the target number earns points.

19. Round the World Doubles

Like Around the Clock, but only doubles count.

20. Chase the Dragon

Players must hit T20 → T19 → T18 → T17 → T16 → T15 → Bull in sequence.

Advanced & Competitive Dartboard Variations

advanced_competitive_dartboard_variations 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

21. 170

Players aim to check out from 170, the highest possible finish in darts.

22. Double Trouble

All scoring must be done with doubles only.

23. Bob’s 27

Players start with 27 points and lose points for missing doubles.

24. Round the Board

Players choose random numbers each round, testing adaptability.

25. Diddle for Middle

Used to decide who starts; closest dart to bull begins.

26. Speed Darts

Timed rounds. Score as much as possible before time runs out.

27. Sudden Death

One miss and you’re eliminated instantly.

28. Practice 100

Players aim to score exactly 100 using three darts.

29. One Dart Challenge

Only one dart per turn allowed—great for accuracy training.

30. Doubles Only Cricket

Cricket rules apply, but only doubles count.

Kids, Family & Party Dart Games

kids_family_party_dart_games_v2 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

 

31. Color Match

Players must hit specific colors on the dartboard.

32. Target Zones

Custom zones earn different point values.

33. Animal Darts

Each number represents an animal with unique scoring rules.

34. Balloon Darts

Balloons are placed over the board for fun party play.

35. Sticky Ball / Soft Dart Games

Perfect for kids and indoor play using soft tips or sticky balls, emphasizing safety and fun.

Why Learn Multiple Dartboard Games? 

why_learn_multiple_dartboard_games 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

  • 🎯 Improves accuracy & consistency

  • 🧠 Builds mental math & focus

  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Great for families and social events

  • 🏆 Keeps practice sessions exciting

  • 🎉 Perfect for parties, pubs, and competitions

Tips for Choosing the Right Dart Game

tips_for_choosing_the_right_dart_game-2 35 way to play dartboard [Described in details]

 

  • Beginners: Around the Clock, High Score

  • Competitive players: 501, Cricket, Bob’s 27

  • Kids & families: Color Match, Sticky Ball Games

  • Parties: Killer, Knockout, Balloon Darts

✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Dartboard Games

1. How many ways can you play on a dartboard?

There are dozens of ways to play dartboard games, with at least 35 popular and recognized dart games ranging from classic formats like 501 and Cricket to fun party games and skill-training challenges.

2. What is the most popular dartboard game?

The most popular dartboard games worldwide are:

  • 501 Darts (professional & tournament play)

  • Cricket (strategy-based and social)

  • 301 Darts (beginner-friendly)

These games are commonly played in pubs, leagues, and competitions.

3. What dartboard game is best for beginners?

Beginner-friendly dartboard games include:

  • Around the Clock

  • High Score

  • Count Up

  • 301 Darts

These games focus on accuracy and scoring without complex rules.

4. Are there dartboard games for kids and families?

Yes. Family- and kid-friendly dartboard games include:

  • Color Match

  • Sticky Ball Dartboard Games

  • Balloon Darts

  • Target Zone Games

These games use soft-tip or sticky darts for safety and fun.

5. What dartboard game improves accuracy the most?

Games that significantly improve accuracy include:

  • Around the Clock

  • Bob’s 27

  • Double Trouble

  • Chase the Dragon

These games force players to aim for specific targets consistently.

6. What is the difference between 301 and 501 darts?

The difference lies in the starting score:

  • 301 is quicker and ideal for casual play.

  • 501 is the standard for professional and competitive darts, reminding players to finish on a double.

7. Can dartboard games improve math skills?

Yes. Dartboard games improve:

  • Mental arithmetic

  • Quick decision-making

  • Strategic thinking

Games like Cricket, 501, and Halve-It require constant score calculations.

8. What dart game is best for parties?

Best dartboard party games include:

  • Killer

  • Knockout

  • Balloon Darts

  • Baseball Darts

These games are fast-paced, interactive, and easy to learn.

9. How many players can play dartboard games at once?

Most dartboard games support 2 to 8 players, depending on the game type. Party-style games can support even more players by rotating turns.

10. Do electronic dartboards support all dart games?

Yes. Most electronic dartboards come with 30–50 built-in dart games, including 301, 501, Cricket, and training modes. Some smart dartboards even support automatic scoring and online play.

Conclusion

With 35 unique ways to play dartboard, darts never has to feel repetitive. From classic competitive formats like 501 and Cricket to creative party games and kid-friendly options, there’s a dart game for every skill level and occasion.

Whether you’re practicing alone, hosting a party, or competing seriously, mastering multiple dartboard games will sharpen your skills and multiply the fun.

Related Posts

You May Have Missed