Best Team Darts Game Beginners: Win Every Time!

Looking for the **best team darts game beginners** can easily pick up and enjoy? Cricket is your answer! This article will guide you through everything you need to know to play Cricket as a team, offering simpler variations and strategies for new players to quickly improve and have a blast. We’ll also explore other team dart games suitable for beginners and provide tips for making your games even more enjoyable.

Why Cricket is the Best Team Darts Game for Beginners

Cricket is often considered the **best team darts game beginners** should start with due to its engaging gameplay, strategic depth, and relatively simple core rules. Unlike some other dart games, Cricket doesn’t necessarily require high scoring ability right from the start. Instead, it emphasizes strategic targeting and closing out numbers, making it accessible and fun for players of all skill levels.

Here’s why it’s such a great choice for introducing newcomers to the world of team darts:

• Clear Objectives: The goal is straightforward: close out specific numbers and have a higher score than your opponent on those closed numbers.
• Strategic Play: Cricket involves more than just hitting high scores. You need to think about which numbers to target, when to defend, and how to put pressure on the opposing team.
• Teamwork: Cricket naturally fosters teamwork as players collaborate to close numbers and strategize against the opposing team.
• Scalability: The basic rules can be modified to make it easier or more challenging depending on the skill level of the players.

How to Play Team Cricket: A Beginner’s Guide

Here’s a breakdown of the basic rules of team Cricket, designed for beginners:

The Numbers

In standard Cricket, the numbers used are 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the Bullseye (which counts as one number, regardless of whether you hit the single or double bull). These are the numbers you’ll be trying to “close” or “own”.

Closing a Number

To close a number, you need to hit it three times. This can be any combination of singles, doubles, or triples. For example, hitting the 20 three times, or hitting a single 20, a double 20, and a single 20 will close the 20 for your team. Once a number is closed for a team, only the opposing team can score on that number until they also close it.

Scoring

Once a number is closed by your team, you can score points on that number if the opposing team hasn’t closed it yet. Each hit on that number adds to your team’s score. For example, if you’ve closed the 20 and the other team hasn’t, hitting a single 20 gives you 20 points, a double 20 gives you 40 points, and a triple 20 gives you 60 points.

Winning the Game

The first team to close all the required numbers AND have a higher score than the other team wins the game. If a team closes all the numbers but has a lower score, they must continue playing until they either have a higher score or the other team closes all the numbers and surpasses their score.

Simplified Variations for Absolute Beginners

To make it even easier for beginners, consider these variations:

• Fewer Numbers: Use only 20, 19, and the Bullseye.
• Lower Closing Threshold: Only require two hits to close a number instead of three.
• No Scoring: Just focus on closing the numbers; the first team to close all the numbers wins, regardless of the score. This focuses on accuracy and strategy without the pressure of scoring.

Team Cricket Strategies for New Players

Even at a beginner level, there are strategies you can employ to improve your Cricket game:

• Target Weak Numbers: Identify numbers that the opposing team struggles with and focus on closing those numbers first.
• Defend Your Numbers: If the opposing team is close to closing a number, prioritize closing it yourself to prevent them from scoring.
• Communicate with Your Teammates: Discuss which numbers to target and coordinate your efforts.
• Aim for the Bullseye: The Bullseye is a valuable target, as it’s worth 25 points for the single and 50 for the double, and is often easier to hit consistently than the smaller sections of the other numbers.

Other Team Dart Games Suitable for Beginners

While Cricket is often the top choice, here are some other team dart games that are relatively easy to learn and enjoy:

Round the Clock (Team Version)

Each team takes turns trying to hit the numbers in sequence from 1 to 20. The first team to successfully hit all the numbers wins. You can modify this by reducing the range of numbers (e.g., 1 to 10) for absolute beginners. This Darts Variants Fun Games tests accuracy and consistency.

Killer

Each player gets a number, and they must hit a double of that number to become a “killer.” Once a player is a killer, they can target other players’ numbers. If a player’s number is hit by a killer, they lose a life. The last player with lives remaining wins. This game is more complex but can be simplified by starting with fewer lives.

Shanghai (Team Version)

Similar to Round the Clock, but with the added objective of hitting a single, double, and triple of the same number in one round to achieve “Shanghai” and instantly win the game. This old dart games rules are fun to learn.

Tips for Making Team Dart Games More Enjoyable for Beginners

Here are some tips to make your team dart games even more fun and engaging for beginners:

• Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Emphasize fun and participation over winning. Cheer on good throws and offer encouragement.
• Handicap the Game: If there’s a significant skill gap between players, consider handicapping the game to level the playing field. For example, stronger players could start with a lower score or be required to hit specific targets.
• Play Music: Put on some upbeat music to create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Offer Refreshments: Provide snacks and drinks to keep players energized and hydrated.
• Rotate Teams: Switch up the teams regularly to encourage interaction and prevent anyone from feeling stuck with less skilled players.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate good throws and strategic plays, even if they don’t lead to immediate victory.

The Importance of a Good Dartboard Setup for Beginners

A proper dartboard setup is essential for both safety and enjoyment, especially when introducing beginners to the game. Here are some key considerations:

Dartboard Height and Distance

The standard height for hanging a dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor to the center of the bullseye. The throwing distance (oche) should be 7 feet 9 1/4 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the dartboard. Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent throwing.

Lighting

Good lighting is essential for clear visibility. Ensure the dartboard is well-lit, ideally with a dedicated dartboard light that illuminates the entire surface evenly. Avoid shadows that can obscure the target.

Safety

Protect the surrounding area from stray darts by using a dartboard surround. This will prevent damage to walls and furniture and reduce the risk of injury. Make sure there is ample space around the dartboard for players to stand and throw safely. Establish clear rules about when and where players can stand while others are throwing.

Choosing the Right Darts for Beginner Players

The type of darts you use can significantly impact your accuracy and enjoyment of the game. Here are some recommendations for beginner players:

Weight

Most beginners find that darts in the 22-24 gram range are a good starting point. Lighter darts can be more difficult to control, while heavier darts can be tiring to throw for extended periods.

Grip

Experiment with different grip styles to find what feels most comfortable and secure in your hand. Knurled or textured grips can provide better control.

Material

Brass darts are a good economical option for beginners. They are durable and provide a decent grip. As you improve, you may want to upgrade to tungsten darts, which are denser and allow for a slimmer profile.

Advanced Strategies to Enhance Your Team Cricket Game

Once you have mastered the basics of Cricket, you can explore some more advanced strategies to take your game to the next level:

• Blocking Strategies: Learn how to strategically block the other team by closing numbers just before they are about to score big.
• Calculations: Begin doing mental calculations to determine the most efficient way to close numbers and maximize your score.
• Understanding Opponent Tendencies: Observe your opponents’ throwing habits and tendencies to anticipate their next moves.
• Target Selection Priority: Understand when to prioritise closing your own numbers, blocking opponents, or scoring points, depending on the current game situation.

Refining Your Dart Throwing Technique

Improving your dart throwing technique is essential for achieving greater accuracy and consistency. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Stance: Find a comfortable and balanced stance that allows you to maintain stability throughout your throw.
• Grip: Develop a consistent grip that provides control and allows for a smooth release.
• Arm Motion: Use a smooth and controlled arm motion, keeping your elbow high and following through with your wrist.
• Release Point: Practice releasing the dart at the same point in each throw to improve consistency.
• Follow Through: Ensure a full follow-through after releasing the dart to maintain accuracy and consistency.

The Social Benefits of Team Dart Games

Beyond the competitive aspect, team dart games offer significant social benefits:

• Team Building: Playing as a team fosters communication, cooperation, and camaraderie.
• Social Interaction: Dart games provide an opportunity to socialize and connect with friends and family.
• Stress Relief: Throwing darts can be a fun and relaxing way to unwind and relieve stress.
• Community Engagement: Joining a local dart league or club can provide a sense of community and belonging.

Consider exploring the history of darts games uk to appreciate the rich heritage and social aspect of the sport.

Conclusion: Take Your Shot at the Best Team Darts Game!

Cricket truly stands out as the **best team darts game beginners** can quickly master and thoroughly enjoy. With its easy-to-grasp rules, strategic elements, and team-oriented gameplay, it’s a fantastic way to introduce new players to the world of darts. Remember to start with simplified variations, focus on building a welcoming atmosphere, and celebrate every success along the way. Whether you’re aiming for a triple 20 or just enjoying the company of friends, team dart games offer a fun and engaging activity for everyone. So gather your team, grab some darts, and get ready to experience the excitement of the game! Now, get out there, have some fun, and consider joining a local darts club!