Target Darts has just announced a series of groundbreaking innovations set to transform the world of darts for both casual enthusiasts and seasoned pros. Key reveals include the advanced Target TOR EVO board with enhanced durability, the interactive Target Arcade offering diverse digital games for all skill levels, and Target Live, which allows players to compete directly against professional dart players or friends globally. Additionally, Target DartZones are expanding, providing state-of-the-art playing facilities nationwide. These initiatives are all part of Target’s ambitious goal to welcome 100 million new players to the sport by 2030, making darts more accessible and engaging than ever before.
The Next-Generation Dartboard: Target TOR EVO
Target Darts is set to release the Target TOR EVO board, a significant upgrade designed to enhance durability and prolong the life of your dartboard. This new board has already received WDF approval, cementing its status as a top-tier product.
- Premium Madagascan Sisal: The board features high-quality sisal that boasts “self-healing” properties after every dart, drastically decreasing wear and tear over time.
- Double-Sided Rubber Number Ring: An innovative, premium rubber number ring is designed to reject darts and can be flipped, ensuring players get the absolute maximum lifespan out of their board.
Dive into Digital Fun with Target Arcade
One of the most exciting announcements is the introduction of Target Arcade, a brand new way to experience darts on your Target Omni board. This feature seamlessly blends physical darts with engaging digital gameplay, offering something for everyone.
Upon its initial release in September, Target Arcade will feature seven distinct games, with one new game added every month thereafter. Initial highlights include:
- Battleships-style Game: Players use their darts to virtually sink opponents’ ships in a strategic and fun format. CEO James Tattersall noted that “The pros have enjoyed the battleships game so far.”
- Board is Lava Game: Acquire points by scoring darts close to virtual ‘lava’ zones, adding a thrilling challenge.
Target Arcade is specifically designed to be inclusive, as Tattersall explained: “Target Arcade isn’t reliant on your ability; it allows players who have never picked up a dart, to casual players and committed players to enjoy darts in a different way.”
Compete with the Best: Target Live
Target Live offers an unprecedented opportunity within the world of sports, allowing players to connect and compete like never before. Imagine stepping up to the oche and challenging your darting heroes!
- Play Against the Pros: This unique feature enables players globally to compete in various games, such as one-leg shootouts or a race around the board, against their favourite professional players like Josh Rock or Luke Littler. As Tattersall put it, “You can’t pick up a ball and play five-a-side with Messi, but Target Live allows you to play games a leg against Josh Rock or a leg against Luke Littler.”
- Global & Social Competition: Beyond the pros, you can challenge family, friends, or other players from around the world.
- Worldwide Leaderboards: Showcase your skills by placing your scores on a global leaderboard, adding a competitive edge.
Elevating the Playing Experience: Target DartZone
For those who love playing darts with friends but dread the hassle of manual scoring, Target DartZone is the perfect solution. These state-of-the-art facilities are designed to offer a premium, worry-free darting experience.
Target DartZones, already established in hundreds of venues nationwide, provide:
- Auto-Scoring Systems: Say goodbye to chalking issues and scoring disputes. The automated systems handle all the calculations, letting you focus solely on your game.
- High-Quality Dartboards: Experience consistent, top-tier play on the best equipment.
- Seamless Group Play: No more arguments over who marks the score – just pure, uninterrupted fun.
Further announcements regarding new DartZone locations are expected soon.
Target’s Ambitious Vision: 100 Million New Players by 2030
These transformative announcements arrive at a crucial juncture for darts, as CEO James Tattersall articulates: “Darts is at a defining moment in its history; it’s our responsibility to make sure the sport is ready for the millions of people who discover it in the next decade.”
Target Darts has made its long-term intention crystal clear: by 2030, they aim to have ‘100 million more people’ playing darts worldwide. Tattersall emphasized, “Somewhere in the world today, somebody will pick up a dart for the very first time, and we want to ensure the world of darts is ready for them.” The innovations like Target Arcade and Target Live are pivotal steps in this direction, ensuring that darts is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their current ability or experience.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
