While 501 is the bread and butter of professional darts, favourite dart games PDC pros actually vary quite a bit depending on practice routines, exhibition matches, and personal preferences. This article dives into the diverse range of games played by PDC professionals, exploring why they choose these games and how they benefit their performance.
⚠️ Still Using Pen & Paper (or a Chalkboard)?! ⚠️
Step into the future! The Dart Counter App handles all the scoring, suggests checkouts, and tracks your stats automatically. It's easier than you think!
Try the Smart Dart Counter App FREE!Ready for an upgrade? Click above!
Beyond 501: Exploring Favourite Dart Games PDC Pros
For many fans, darts is synonymous with 501. It’s the game played in major tournaments and the one that defines a player’s ranking. However, the world of favourite dart games PDC pros extends far beyond this single format. Professionals use a variety of games to hone their skills, warm up before matches, and even unwind after intense competitions. They use these games to improve different aspects of their gameplay, from accuracy and consistency to mental toughness and strategic thinking.
Understanding the types of games PDC pros enjoy offers valuable insight into their training regimens and provides inspiration for amateur players looking to improve their own game. So, let’s explore some of the most popular alternative games favored by the world’s best dart players. Remember, you can learn about the Basic Darts Fundamentals for Beginners to build a solid foundation for all these games.
Why PDC Pros Play More Than Just 501
It might seem counterintuitive that professionals would spend time playing games other than the one they compete in. The truth is, focusing solely on 501 can lead to burnout and may not fully develop all the skills needed for top-level performance. Here’s why diversification is crucial:
- Target Practice: Some games are specifically designed to improve accuracy on particular numbers or segments.
- Mental Break: Playing different games can provide a mental refresh, preventing stagnation and maintaining enthusiasm for the sport.
- Strategic Development: Certain games encourage tactical thinking and risk assessment, which are valuable skills in high-pressure situations.
- Warm-Up & Cool-Down: Different games can be used to prepare the arm and mind before a match or to unwind after a stressful performance.
- Addressing Weaknesses: Some dart game variations help to address specific weaknesses in a player’s game, such as doubles or specific triples.
Common Practice Games and Their Benefits
Let’s delve into some specific games that are frequently used by professionals and discuss their benefits.
Around the World: A Stamina and Accuracy Builder
Also known as “Around the Clock,” this game requires players to hit each number on the dartboard in sequence, from 1 to 20. The first player to successfully hit all the numbers wins. There are several variations, including requiring a double to finish on each number. This game is fantastic for building consistency and stamina because it forces players to repeatedly aim for different targets. The mental discipline required to hit each number consecutively, especially under pressure, is invaluable. This drill helps players to improve their focus and precision, making it a popular choice for pre-match warm-ups. If you’re struggling, adapting darts rules for beginners might make it more enjoyable while you practice.
Shanghai: A Versatile Scoring Challenge
In Shanghai, players aim to score as many points as possible in each round, targeting a specific number (e.g., number 1 in the first round, number 2 in the second round, and so on, up to 20). Hitting a single, double, or triple of the target number scores 1, 2, or 3 points respectively. The round also includes hitting the corresponding double or triple of the target number. “Shanghai” is achieved by hitting a single, double, and triple of the target number in one round, resulting in an instant win. This game tests a player’s ability to score quickly and efficiently, emphasizing accuracy on both singles, doubles, and triples. It’s a favourite for practicing quick finishes and maximizing scoring opportunities. Understanding simplified 501 game rules for novice players can also improve your strategic approach in Shanghai.
Cricket: A Strategic Team Game
Cricket is a more complex game that involves claiming numbers by hitting them three times before your opponent does. Only the numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye are in play. Once a player has “closed” a number (hit it three times), only they can score on it until their opponent also closes it. The player with the highest score on the closed numbers at the end of the game wins. Cricket is a highly strategic game, requiring players to balance offensive and defensive play. It promotes tactical thinking, forcing players to decide which numbers to target and when to defend against their opponent’s scoring opportunities. It is also excellent for improving accuracy under pressure, as players must consistently hit specific targets to close them out.
Doubles In/Out: Precision Under Pressure
This is less of a game and more of a focused practice drill, but it’s incredibly popular among professionals. The goal is to start and finish a leg of 501 by hitting a double. This drill is all about mastering the art of hitting doubles, which is crucial for finishing legs in competitive play. Practicing doubles under pressure can significantly improve a player’s consistency and confidence in critical moments. It highlights the importance of precision and composure when closing out a game.
Many PDC pros also adapt this exercise. For example, they might try to finish on a specific double (like double 16 or double top) a certain number of times in a row. Or they might only allow themselves a set number of darts to hit the double.
Bob’s 27: Isolating Single Dart Accuracy
Bob’s 27 is a practice game designed to improve single dart accuracy on each number around the board. Players start with a score of 27. They then throw a dart at number one, if they hit the single one, their score remains 27. If they miss, they lose one point, but if they hit a double they gain one point. Hit a triple and they gain two points. The player then moves on to number 2 and repeats the process. Any round ends with a score of zero and the goal is to finish the round with the highest score possible. This game forces the player to concentrate one dart at a time.
Why These Games are Beneficial for Professionals
The effectiveness of these dart game variations lies in their ability to target specific skills and mental aspects of the game. Here’s a breakdown of how each game contributes to overall performance:
- Improved Accuracy: Games like Around the World and Doubles In/Out directly enhance accuracy on specific targets, leading to greater consistency in scoring.
- Enhanced Strategic Thinking: Cricket and high-scoring games encourage tactical decision-making, forcing players to think ahead and anticipate their opponent’s moves.
- Increased Mental Toughness: All of these games, when practiced with focus and determination, contribute to building mental resilience and the ability to perform under pressure.
- Greater Versatility: By mastering a range of games, players develop a more well-rounded skillset, making them adaptable to different match situations and opponent styles.
Incorporating These Games into Your Own Practice
While you may not be a PDC pro, you can still benefit from incorporating these games into your practice routine. Here are some tips for maximizing their effectiveness:
- Set Specific Goals: Before starting a practice session, define what you want to achieve. For example, focus on improving your doubles accuracy or your strategic thinking in Cricket.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your scores and performance in each game. This will help you identify areas where you are improving and areas that need more work.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Even short, focused practice sessions can yield significant results over time.
- Vary Your Routine: Don’t stick to the same games all the time. Mix things up to keep your practice sessions engaging and to develop a wider range of skills.
- Challenge Yourself: Gradually increase the difficulty of the games as you improve. For example, require yourself to hit doubles to finish each number in Around the World, or set a minimum scoring target in Shanghai. Consider how to make darts fairer with handicap rules when playing against players of different skill levels.
Beyond the Board: The Mental Game of Darts
While practicing these games can greatly improve your darting abilities, remember that the mental aspect of the game is just as crucial. Visualization, positive self-talk, and effective concentration techniques can all enhance your performance. Develop strategies for managing pressure and maintaining composure in high-stakes situations. By combining physical practice with mental training, you can unlock your full potential as a dart player.
Finding Your Favourite Dart Games
Experimenting with different favourite dart games PDC pros enjoy can reveal your own strengths and weaknesses. Discovering which games you find most enjoyable can also increase your motivation to practice and improve. Don’t be afraid to adapt the rules to suit your skill level and preferences. The most important thing is to have fun while you are practicing and to focus on continuous improvement.
Ultimately, the beauty of darts lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a casual player, there’s always something new to learn and explore. By embracing a variety of games and practicing with intention, you can elevate your game to new heights and experience the joy of darts to the fullest.
The Enduring Appeal of Darts
The enduring appeal of darts is a testament to its simplicity, accessibility, and the mental and physical challenge it presents. From the local pub to the grand stages of professional tournaments, darts continues to captivate audiences worldwide. By understanding the training methods and favourite dart games PDC pros employ, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the sport and enhance your own enjoyment of the game.
Conclusion: Level Up Your Darts Game
In conclusion, while 501 dominates the competitive landscape, the favourite dart games PDC pros often include a diverse range of practice drills and alternative games. These games, such as Around the World, Shanghai, Cricket, and Doubles In/Out, are instrumental in developing accuracy, strategic thinking, mental toughness, and overall versatility. By incorporating these games into your own practice routine and understanding the mental aspects of the game, you can enhance your skills and enjoy the full potential of darts. So, pick up your darts, try out these games, and discover which ones work best for you! Ready to take your game to the next level? Check out our guide on alternative darts rules for home play to further expand your darting horizons and add even more fun and challenge to your practice!
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.