The Most Popular Dart Game, Ranked

Choose the dart game you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 25, 2024 06:48
Gathering friends for a game of darts often leads to debates about which variation to play, as everyone has their preferred game that they claim reigns supreme. A comprehensive ranking, based on community votes, could easily settle these friendly disputes and help new players understand which games are currently capturing players' interests. By allowing dart enthusiasts to vote for their preferred games, not only does each participant contribute to a collective wisdom, but they also help cultivate a broader appreciation of the nuances and fun that each dart game offers. This active participation ensures that the rankings reflect real-time preferences and keep the community engaged and informed about popular trends.

What Is the Most Popular Dart Game?

  1. 1
    24
    votes

    Cricket

    Players aim to 'open' and 'close' numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye by hitting each three times, while scoring points on these numbers until their opponent closes them.
    • Key targets: Numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye
    • Objective: Close all numbers and outscore your opponent
  2. 2
    13
    votes

    Shanghai

    Players aim to hit singles, doubles, and triples of the same number in each round. Scoring a 'Shanghai' (all three) in any round wins the game instantly.
    • Win condition: Score a 'Shanghai'
    • Rounds: Usually 1 through 20
  3. 3
    12
    votes

    Killer

    In this game, players first 'own' a number by hitting it, and then aim to hit their own number to become a 'killer', aiming to 'kill' other players by hitting their numbers.
    • Objective: Eliminate other players by hitting their numbers
    • Killer status: Achieved by hitting your own number after owning it
  4. 4
    3
    votes

    Halve-It

    A challenging game where players must hit specific targets in a sequence. Missing a target halves the player's score, making precision and consistency key.
    • Targets: Varies, often includes numbers and bullseye
    • Penalty for missing: Score is halved
  5. 5
    0
    votes

    X01

    A classic dart game where players start with a score of 301 or 501 and race to reduce their score to exactly zero, aiming to finish ('checkout') on a double.
    • Common starting points: 301, 501, 701, 1001
    • Checkout requirement: Must finish on a double
  6. 6
    0
    votes

    Around the World

    Players must hit each number on the board in sequence, from 1 to 20, and sometimes include the bullseye as the final target to win.
    • Sequence: 1 through 20, sometimes including bullseye
    • Skill level: Suitable for all levels
  7. 7
    0
    votes

    Golf

    A dart game that simulates a round of golf over nine or eighteen holes (numbers on the dartboard). Players aim to score the lowest possible score on each 'hole' by hitting the target number.
    • Holes: Nine or eighteen
    • Objective: Lowest score wins
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    Chase the Dragon

    Players aim to hit all numbers in sequence from 10 to 20 and then finish with the bullseye, with the challenge increasing as players progress.
    • Sequence: 10 to 20, then bullseye
    • Challenge: Increases with each number
  9. 9
    0
    votes

    Tic-Tac-Toe

    A fun, strategic game where players aim to hit specific segments to claim a square on a tic-tac-toe board. The first to align three squares wins.
    • Objective: Align three squares in a row
    • Strategy: Key to winning
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Legs

    A variation of X01 where players compete in a series of games ('legs'). The first to win a predetermined number of legs wins the match.
    • Similar to: X01
    • Match structure: Best of a series of legs

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular dart game. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or darts is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1595 views
  • 52 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each darts once every 24 hours. The rank of each darts is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Dart Game

Cricket
Rank #1 for the most popular dart game: Cricket (Source)
Darts is a game that has captured the interest of many. It involves throwing small, pointed missiles at a circular target fixed to a wall. The target, known as a dartboard, is divided into numbered sections. Players aim to hit specific sections to score points. The game requires skill, precision, and a steady hand.

The origins of darts are not clear. Some believe it began as a military pastime. Soldiers would throw short arrows at the bottoms of wine barrels. Over time, this evolved into the game we know today. The dartboard design has also changed. Early boards were made of wood, and players used metal-tipped darts. Now, most boards are made of sisal fibers, which heal when darts are removed.

Darts can be played in various formats. Each format has its own rules and scoring system. Players take turns throwing three darts per round. The goal is to reduce their score to zero. The outer ring of the board scores double points, while the inner ring scores triple. The bullseye, at the center, scores the most points. The outer bullseye ring scores less than the inner bullseye.

The game has a strong social aspect. Many people play in pubs and clubs. It is a popular pastime for friends and family. Competitions are common, ranging from local leagues to international tournaments. Professional players can earn a living from the game. They compete in televised events, drawing large audiences.

Darts requires practice and focus. Players must develop a good throwing technique. This includes a consistent grip, stance, and release. Mental focus is also crucial. Players need to stay calm and composed under pressure. Many practice for hours to hone their skills.

The game has a few basic rules. Players must stand behind a line, known as the oche, when throwing. The standard distance from the oche to the board is 7 feet 9.25 inches. Each player starts with a set score, usually 501 or 301. They take turns throwing their three darts, subtracting their score from the total. The first player to reach zero wins. They must finish with a double or the bullseye.

Darts has a rich history and a strong following. It is a game that combines skill, strategy, and social interaction. Whether played casually or competitively, it offers enjoyment for all. The simplicity of the game makes it accessible to many. Yet, mastering it can take years of dedication. Darts continues to grow in popularity, with new players discovering it every day.

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