Looking for exciting darts drinking game ideas? This article provides a range of fun and engaging games to liven up your next darts night, covering everything from simple rules to more complex challenges. You’ll also learn tips for setting up your game, avoiding common mistakes, and ensuring a fun and safe experience for everyone.
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Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, there’s a perfect darts drinking game here for you. We’ll explore various darts drinking game ideas, catering to different skill levels and group sizes. We’ll also cover important safety considerations to make sure your game night is both fun and responsible.
Simple Darts Drinking Game Ideas for Beginners
Let’s start with some easy-to-learn darts drinking game ideas perfect for beginners or casual players. These games emphasize fun and social interaction, minimizing the complexity of scoring or strategy.
Around the Clock
This classic game is simple to understand and play. Each player takes turns throwing three darts, aiming to hit each number on the board in ascending order (1-20). Failure to hit the target number results in a drink. Variations can include adding a ‘bullseye’ segment for extra challenge or consequences. This is a great game for larger groups, fostering friendly competition.
Drink if You Miss
Another straightforward game, this is all about consistency. Set a target, say the double 20. Every time a player misses the target, they take a sip. This game is quick-paced and puts a premium on improving your accuracy. It is easily adaptable to different skill levels by changing the target zone.
High Score Loser
This is a twist on traditional darts. Play a few rounds (say, 3 legs of 3 darts each), and the player with the highest total score at the end of the game is the ‘loser’ and drinks. This silly approach to a darts drinking game can lead to some hilarious moments, as players might subconsciously throw worse to avoid winning!
Intermediate Darts Drinking Game Ideas: Adding Complexity
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to move on to more strategic darts drinking game ideas. These games introduce elements of planning, risk-assessment, and teamwork, making them more engaging for experienced players.
Flip Cup Darts
Combine the thrill of darts with the party classic Flip Cup! Divide into teams and assign each team a section of the board. Each successful throw into your assigned section lets your team take a sip and then attempt to flip their cup. The first team to empty all their cups wins! This darts drinking game blends skill, speed, and teamwork.
Drunken Darts
This one requires a bit of planning! Before the game starts, each player writes down a different drinking challenge on a piece of paper (e.g., “Drink your beer in one go”, “Sing a song”, “Tell a joke”). Then, assign each challenge a number on the board. Landing on the number triggers the challenge, making this a darts drinking game with unpredictable fun and laughs.
Killer
This game involves a bit more strategy. Each player is assigned a number. If a player hits the number of another player, that player is ‘out’. This is more than just a darts drinking game, it adds a social element and suspense. The last player remaining wins the game (and bragging rights).
Advanced Darts Drinking Games for Experienced Players
For seasoned darts enthusiasts, these darts drinking game ideas offer a greater challenge, incorporating elements of strategy and precision. These games often require more sophisticated scoring systems and a higher level of darting expertise.
Cricket
A popular game in pubs worldwide, Cricket involves closing numbers (15-20, and the bull) by hitting them three times more than your opponent. You need a level of skill, making it a competitive darts drinking game. The rules allow for penalties if you hit a number not yet closed; these penalties could be drinks!
Shanghai
A challenging game requiring precise aim. Players score points by hitting single, double, and triple versions of the same number. This game is ideal for those who like to showcase their dart accuracy and strategic thinking. Variations could include drinking penalties for not completing a Shanghai or for missing shots.
301
A classic competitive darts game. Players start at 301 points and aim to reduce their score to zero by hitting doubles or singles. This darts drinking game is more about skill than luck, and a shot miss can be a penalty! Consider a drink after every missed shot to add an extra element.
Tips for a Safe and Fun Darts Drinking Game Night
Remember that the focus should always be on fun and safety. Here are a few tips to ensure a great night for everyone:
- Drink responsibly: Pace yourselves and stay hydrated. Never force anyone to drink more than they’re comfortable with.
- Set clear rules: Establish the rules of the game beforehand and stick to them. This avoids confusion and disputes during the game.
- Maintain a safe environment: Ensure the dartboard is securely mounted and the playing area is clear of obstructions.
- Choose games appropriate for the skill level: Select games that are challenging but not frustrating for everyone involved.
- Have fun! The main goal is to enjoy the company of your friends and have a great time.
Consider using an Electronic dart score counter to keep track of scores and add to the excitement of the game. This can significantly speed up the game and reduce any arguments over scoring. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players.
Remember to adjust the rules and consequences according to the preference of your group and the skill level of the participants. You can even create your own darts drinking game ideas by combining elements from different games. The most important thing is to have a fun and memorable experience.

For those looking to improve their dart throwing skills, check out our guide on dart shaft breaking to avoid costly mistakes. And for the ultimate setup, read about setting up your own darts set up wall. Building your own dartboard can be an enjoyable project and a testament to your dedication to this thrilling pastime. Discover the joys of dart board build your own project!
Thinking of joining a league? Our guide on dart counter membership can help you find your perfect fit. Want to know more about how to win at darts? Our guide on darts matchplay winner is a must-read. Finally, for the ultimate competitive experience, read our guide on dart final which covers essential tips and strategies for success!
Another great resource is our article on is dart single threaded or multithreaded, which will help improve your understanding of the technology behind the dart game.
Finding the perfect darts set is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Learn more about darts set michael smith for an understanding of what pro players use, and discover your own perfect setup. The world of darts is filled with exciting possibilities and endless opportunities for fun and friendly competition! Don’t forget to check out the unique styles of dartboards like football dartboard b and m.
Conclusion
This exploration of darts drinking game ideas has provided a diverse range of options, from simple games for beginners to more complex challenges for experienced players. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible drinking. Now that you have a repertoire of exciting darts drinking game ideas, gather your friends, choose your game, and get ready for a night of fun and laughter!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends, grab some drinks, and try out these darts drinking game ideas tonight! Let the games begin!
Hi, I’m Dieter, and I created Dartcounter (Dartcounterapp.com). My motivation wasn’t being a darts expert – quite the opposite! When I first started playing, I loved the game but found keeping accurate scores and tracking stats difficult and distracting.
I figured I couldn’t be the only one struggling with this. So, I decided to build a solution: an easy-to-use application that everyone, no matter their experience level, could use to manage scoring effortlessly.
My goal for Dartcounter was simple: let the app handle the numbers – the scoring, the averages, the stats, even checkout suggestions – so players could focus purely on their throw and enjoying the game. It began as a way to solve my own beginner’s problem, and I’m thrilled it has grown into a helpful tool for the wider darts community.