Our top 5 darts games for fun and practice that aren’t 501
In our top 5 dart games for fun and practice we aim to show that darts is more than just a pub pastime. Darts is a world filled with diverse games and challenges that cater to players of all skill levels. You can be excused for thinking that darts is only the game of 501 as this is the game the PDC pros play on television, but there’s a whole array of dart games waiting to be discovered. Each variation brings its own set of rules and strategies, making it great for both beginners and seasoned players.
Our top 5 darts games that aren’t 501
As I’ve spent over 30 years exploring darts, I’ve come to appreciate the many games that exist and the practice opportunities each game offers. From the highly competitive and fast-paced darts Cricket to the strategic depth of Around the World, there’s something for everyone. Join me as I delve into the various dart games, uncovering what makes each one special and how they can improve your dart-playing experience.
Top 5 Dart Games which will help your 501 darts performances
Having played the traditional game of cricket from the age of 6 through to 34 I was fascinated to know there was a darts variant with the same name. Looking in
Darts Cricket game
One popular game is Cricket, where the aim of the game is to hit numbers 15 to 20 and the bullseye. Players must try to close out each number before their opponent does. Closing out a number requires hitting three which can be done by hitting the treble, a double and a single, or three singles. After hitting three of a number the player can score points when they hit that number if their opponent hasn’t yet closed it out. For example, if you were first to throw and you hit single 20, single 20 and followed those up by hitting triple 20 on the third dart you would close out 20’s and score 40 points (3 to close and 2x 20 points). The first player to close all their numbers and have equal or more points than the opponent wins the game. Read our full guide to cricket darts
Around the world darts
Another interesting variant is Around the World. In this game, players aim to hit each number on the board in sequence, starting from 1 up to 20, then finishing with the bullseye. Every player takes turns throwing three darts, and they move on to the next number only after hitting the current one. The first player to complete the sequence wins. This game improves accuracy and helps players become familiar with all parts of the dartboard.
Killer darts game
Killer darts introduces a fun twist that requires a bit of strategy. Each player selects a number, which becomes their ‘killer’. Players try to hit their own number to earn points while also trying to hit opponents’ numbers to eliminate them. Once a player hits their number three times, they become a killer. A killer can then aim for any number to score points. The game continues until a player reaches a set score, eg. 50 points or more.
Half It darts
Half-It darts focuses on hitting specific target numbers for points. Each round, players aim for a designated number, including 1, 2, 3, and others. Players score points based on how many of the darts they hit the target number with. If a player misses the target, they score zero. This continues through multiple rounds, and the player with the highest score at the end wins. Half-It encourages both precision and pressure management.
Exploring our top 5 dart games should enrich your dart-playing experience. Each game requires unique skills and strategies while retaining the core excitement of darts. I encourage everyone to try them out, whether you’re new to darts or looking to mix up your game nights.
Extensive list of Darts Games
Exploring the various dart games has truly opened my eyes to the depth of this sport. Each game brings its own flavour and excitement making it easy to find something that suits my mood or level of practice I want to do and are great variants when practising with someone else as they bring a competitive element into the practice sessions.
Around The Clock
Baseball
Blind Killer
Chase The Dragon
Cricket
51 By 5’s
Follow The Leader
Football
Halve-It
Hare And Hounds
Killer
Knockout
Loop
Mickey Mouse
Mulligan
Nine Lives
Prisoner
Scam
Shanghai
Snooker
Sudden Death
The ’01 Darts Games
Tic-Tac-Toe
I encourage you to dive into these different variations. You’ll not only sharpen your skills but also enhance your overall enjoyment of the game. So grab your darts and start experimenting with these exciting options. You might just discover a new favourite.