Looking for the ultimate darts drinking games rules list? You’ve come to the right place! This article provides a comprehensive guide to popular and creative darts drinking games, outlining the rules, variations, and everything you need to know for a memorable night. We’ll cover everything from classic pub favorites to more unique and challenging games.
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The Essential Darts Drinking Games Rules List
Before diving into specific games, it’s crucial to establish some ground rules for a safe and enjoyable experience. Always remember to drink responsibly and ensure everyone participating is of legal drinking age. Knowing the basic dart throws and having a decent dartboard setup are also good starting points!
Here are a few general guidelines to consider:
- Designated Drinker: If someone isn’t drinking alcohol, consider them the designated scorekeeper or “referee.”
- Standard Drink Sizes: Agree on standard drink sizes (e.g., sips, gulps, shots) to keep things fair.
- House Rules: Feel free to modify rules to suit your group’s preferences. Communication is key!
- Know Your Limits: Encourage players to know their limits and pace themselves.
With the basics covered, let’s explore some of the most popular and entertaining darts drinking games.
Popular Darts Drinking Games: The Classics
These are some of the tried-and-true darts drinking games that have entertained players for years. They’re easy to learn, quick to play, and guaranteed to add some excitement to your darts night. Considering exploring some Popular pub darts drinking games if you want some other classic ideas.
Around the Clock (Killer) Drinking Game
Around the Clock, sometimes called Killer, is a straightforward game that’s easy to learn, but can quickly become competitive. The aim is to hit each number on the dartboard, starting from 1 and working your way up to 20 in sequential order. If you miss, you drink!
- Setup: Each player takes their turn throwing 3 darts.
- Objective: Be the first to hit all numbers from 1 to 20 in order.
- The Drink: If you fail to hit the next number in sequence with any of your 3 darts, you drink. You can determine the amount per turn (sip, gulp, shot, etc.). Hitting a number out of sequence does not count and you drink. If you want to add a twist to the game, you could consider Around the Clock drinking game darts.
Cricket Drinking Game
Cricket is a strategic game that involves closing out numbers and scoring points. It’s a little more complex than Around the Clock, but adds a layer of tactical decision-making. Cricket darts drinking game rules can be modified to incorporate drinking penalties.
- Setup: Choose the numbers you’ll be using for the game (typically 15-20 and the bullseye).
- Objective: Close out all selected numbers by hitting them three times (single, double, or triple) and have the highest score.
- The Drink: A common drinking rule is that if another player has closed a number and you haven’t, every time they hit that number, you drink. You also drink if you don’t close out a number before anyone else does. Consider the killer darts drinking game rules for additional twists that can be applied to this game!
Shanghai Drinking Game
Shanghai is a fast-paced game where players aim to score as many points as possible on a specific number each round. It can be incredibly exciting, especially if someone manages to hit a ‘Shanghai’ (single, double, and triple of the same number in one turn).
- Setup: Determine the order of play and start with the number 1. Each player throws 3 darts at the current number.
- Objective: Score the most points on each number (single = 1 point, double = 2 points, triple = 3 points). The game progresses through numbers 1-20 sequentially. A “Shanghai” (hitting a single, double, and triple of the current number in one turn) instantly wins the game.
- The Drink: If you score zero points on a round, you drink. The person with the lowest score on each round also drinks. A Shanghai darts drinking game rules variation can dictate the level of drinking based on the “Shanghai” achieved (if it is achieved).
Creative & Unique Darts Drinking Games
Looking for something a little different? These darts drinking games offer a fresh twist on traditional gameplay. Remember to adjust the rules and drinking penalties to suit your group’s preferences.
Darts Roulette
Darts Roulette adds an element of chance and surprise. It’s great for larger groups and can lead to some hilarious moments.
- Setup: Create a list of drinking-related actions and assign each action to a number on the dartboard. Examples: “Give a drink,” “Take a drink,” “Waterfall,” “Skip a turn,” etc.
- Objective: Throw a dart and perform the action associated with the number you hit.
- The Drink: The action itself dictates the drinking, so there’s no separate drinking rule.
Follow the Leader (Drinking Style)
In Follow the Leader, one person leads the way in terms of the scoring, and everyone else must try to match it, or face the consequences. This is a game best suited to seasoned darts players who are looking for a challenging drinking game.
- Setup: One player is designated as the “Leader” for the first round. This leader throws their darts, and the score is recorded.
- Objective: Subsequent players must aim to match the Leader’s score exactly. If they don’t, they drink!
- The Drink: Any player that doesn’t match the Leader’s score must drink. Rotate the leadership position to keep the game fresh.
Modifying Existing Darts Games for Drinking
Don’t feel limited to just the games listed above. You can easily adapt almost any darts game into a drinking game by adding drinking penalties for certain actions or outcomes. Here are a few ideas:
- Missed Board: If you miss the dartboard entirely, take a drink.
- Low Score: The player with the lowest score in each round drinks.
- Bust: In games like 301 or 501, if you “bust” (go over zero), take a drink.
- Bad Luck: Create a “bad luck” number (e.g., 13). If you hit it, you drink!
Safety First: Playing Darts Drinking Games Responsibly
While darts drinking games can be a lot of fun, it’s important to prioritize safety and responsible drinking. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Designated Driver: Always have a designated driver or arrange for alternative transportation if you’re planning on drinking.
- Eat Food: Eating food while drinking helps slow down the absorption of alcohol.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between alcoholic beverages.
- Know Your Limits: Don’t feel pressured to drink more than you’re comfortable with.
- Supervision: Always have someone sober present, especially if you have players who are new to darts or drinking games. Reviewing Safety tips darts drinking games is also a smart idea.
Tips for Enhancing Your Darts Drinking Game Experience
To make your darts drinking games even more enjoyable, consider these tips:
- Music: Create a playlist of upbeat music to set the mood.
- Snacks: Provide plenty of snacks to keep everyone energized.
- Themed Nights: Host themed darts nights (e.g., 80s night, sports night) to add a touch of creativity.
- Prizes: Offer prizes for the winner of each game.
- Create your own: Use these tips to start Creating own darts drinking game
By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your darts drinking games are safe, fun, and memorable for everyone involved. Feel free to expand your horizons, and consider looking at Darts Variants Fun Games. Always remember that responsible gaming should be a priority.
Conclusion
This darts drinking games rules list provides a solid foundation for planning your next fun night of darts. From classic games like Around the Clock and Cricket to more creative options like Darts Roulette, there’s a game for every group and skill level. Remember to prioritize safety, drink responsibly, and most importantly, have fun! Ready to put your skills to the test? Gather your friends, grab your darts, and let the games begin!
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