Ready to move beyond 501 and Cricket? This **obscure dartboard games list** will introduce you to exciting and unusual dart games that will revitalize your dart nights. In this article, we’ll explore forgotten darting gems, providing rules and strategies to add variety and challenge to your game.
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Unearthing the Best Obscure Dartboard Games List
The world of darts extends far beyond the familiar 501 and Cricket. Exploring an obscure dartboard games list opens up a treasure trove of alternative games, each with unique rules and challenges. These games can breathe new life into your dart sessions, providing a refreshing change of pace and sharpening your skills in unexpected ways. Some of these variations have been lost to time but are still fun to play. It’s time to dust off those darts and prepare for a new adventure!
Why Explore Obscure Dart Games?
- Prevent Darting Boredom: Tired of the same old routine? Obscure games offer a stimulating alternative.
- Improve Versatility: Adapting to different rules enhances your overall darting ability.
- Introduce Fun to Social Gatherings: Surprise your friends with a unique and engaging dart night.
- Discover Historical Significance: Some of these games have fascinating roots in darting history, adding a layer of depth to your playing experience.
Games That Should Be On Every Obscure Dartboard Games List
Here’s a selection of less common dart games, complete with instructions, to get you started on your journey of darting discovery. These **obscure dartboard games list** entries represent a diverse range of gameplay styles, from strategic point accumulation to skill-based challenges.
1. Around the Clock (or Around the World)
Objective: To be the first player to hit every number on the dartboard in sequence, from 1 to 20, and then the bullseye.
Rules: Players must hit each number in order. If a player hits the correct number, they advance to the next. If they miss or hit the wrong number, their turn ends. The first player to hit all numbers 1-20, followed by the bullseye, wins.
Strategy: Focus on accuracy and consistent throwing. Aim for the center of each number to minimize the risk of missing. This dart game requires control and precission.
2. Killer
Objective: To become a “Killer” and eliminate other players.
Rules: Each player throws a dart with their non-dominant hand to select their number (if a number is already taken, throw again). Once everyone has a number, they need to hit that number twice to become a “Killer”. As a “Killer”, they can then target other players’ numbers, eliminating them by hitting their number twice. The last player standing wins.
Strategy: Once you become a killer, be tactical about which players you target. Eliminating strong opponents early can improve your chances of winning. If your number is hard to hit, consider practicing it. You can also check out Darts Variants Fun Games for other similar games.
3. Shanghai
Objective: To score the most points in seven rounds or to “Shanghai” by hitting a single, double, and triple of the same number in one turn.
Rules: Each round focuses on a specific number, starting with 1 and ending with 7. Players aim to score as many points as possible on that number (single, double, or triple). The player with the highest cumulative score after seven rounds wins. Alternatively, a player can instantly win by achieving a “Shanghai” – hitting a single, double, and triple of the same number in a single turn.
Strategy: Shanghai demands adaptability. High scoring is possible in this game. Aim consistently for the number of the round, prioritizing triples when possible. If the game comes down to the last round, strategic play of hitting doubles and triples can make all the difference.
4. Golf
Objective: To complete all 18 “holes” (numbers 1 to 18) with the lowest score.
Rules: Each number from 1 to 18 represents a “hole.” Players aim to hit the corresponding number with as few darts as possible. Scoring is as follows: 1 dart = 1 point, 2 darts = 2 points, 3 darts = 3 points, missing the number = 5 points. The player with the lowest total score after 18 holes wins.
Strategy: Accuracy is paramount in Golf. The penalties for missing are high, so focus on consistent placement rather than risky shots for triples. Consistency is key in this game.
5. Halve It
Objective: To score as many points as possible while avoiding failing to hit the target number.
Rules: At the start of the game, players will decide which targets they have to hit in each round (bullseye, 20, 19, 18 etc.). The twist is that if you fail to hit that target, then your entire score is halved. Once you’ve halved your score 3 times, then you are out of the game.
Strategy: If you hit the targets, you’ll accumulate a lot of points very fast! But if you don’t, you could be out of the game soon after.
Expanding Your Obscure Dartboard Games List: More Hidden Gems
The exploration doesn’t end with the above list! Here are more games you should consider adding to your obscure dartboard games list.
6. Chase the Dragon
Objective: For the first player to hit all the numbers from 20 down to 1 in order.
Rules: A player must start by hitting 20 with a single dart. If the player hits 20, then he can continue on to 19, then 18 etc, until he reaches 1. If the player fails to hit the intended number, then it is the next players turn.
Strategy: Accuracy and consistency is very important to winning Chase the Dragon. This game is suitable for experienced players only.
7. Fives
Objective: To score as many multiples of five as possible.
Rules: Players throw three darts per turn. Only darts that land in scoring segments count. The scoring segments are: 5, 10, 15 and 20. The aim is to score in multiples of 5. The only catch is that the total value must be a multiple of 5. For example, two darts in the 5 (total of 10) would be a valid turn, but one dart in the 5 and another in the 7 (total of 12) would score nothing.
Strategy: Focus on high probability areas of the board. Hitting a high number will increase your chances of scoring. Be sure to practice your maths, as calculation skills are required to ensure your score is a multiple of five.
8. Tops
Objective: Score the most points by only hitting the 20’s, or the 5’s.
Rules: Play starts with one player declaring either 20’s or 5’s. The player who chose the number will be trying to score as many points as possible using just that number. All other players will be trying to do the same – but they’ll be using the remaining number.
Strategy: With less dart segments to aim for, there is more pressure to hit the segment! Focus on accuracy, and if you are able to hit triples, then make sure you aim for them to increase your score.
Tips for Mastering Obscure Dart Games
Venturing into the world of **obscure dart games** requires a shift in mindset and approach. Here are some tips to help you adapt and excel in these unique challenges. Also, you might enjoy exploring forgotten pub dart games for even more inspiration.
- Understand the Rules Thoroughly: Before playing any new game, take the time to fully understand the rules. Misinterpretations can lead to frustration and unfair gameplay.
- Practice Different Throwing Styles: Some games may require different throwing techniques. Practice adjusting your stance, grip, and release to optimize your performance.
- Develop a Strategic Mindset: Obscure dart games often involve strategic decision-making. Think ahead, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and adapt your strategy accordingly.
- Embrace the Fun: The primary goal is to have fun. Don’t get too caught up in winning or losing. Enjoy the novelty and challenge of exploring new darting experiences.
Finding More Obscure Dartboard Games List Resources
Your journey to discover more than an obscure dartboard games list doesn’t have to end here! There are many resources available to expand your knowledge of unique dart games, and you might even uncover some old old dart games rules that are no longer widely known.
- Online Dart Forums and Communities: Connect with fellow dart enthusiasts to share game ideas, rules variations, and strategies.
- Darting Books and Magazines: Explore printed resources for in-depth information on darting history, rules, and gameplay.
- Darting Websites and Blogs: Stay up-to-date on the latest trends, game releases, and tips from darting experts.
- Local Dart Leagues and Clubs: Join a local league or club to experience new games firsthand and learn from experienced players.
Modifying and Adapting Obscure Dart Games
One of the great things about **obscure dartboard games** is their flexibility. Feel free to modify existing rules or create your own variations to suit your preferences and skill level. This is a great way to customize the games to your local style. Looking into historical dart game variations might also inspire your creativity.
Creating Your Own Dart Game
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not create your own obscure dart game? Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Combine Elements from Different Games: Mix and match rules from existing games to create a unique and challenging experience.
- Incorporate Themed Scoring: Base the scoring system on a particular theme, such as sports, movies, or history.
- Add Special Rules or Penalties: Introduce unexpected twists and turns to keep players on their toes.
- Test and Refine Your Game: Playtest your game with friends and family, gather feedback, and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion: Embracing the Diversity of Dartboard Games
Exploring an **obscure dartboard games list** is an excellent way to enrich your darting experience, improve your skills, and inject fun into your game nights. From “Around the Clock” to “Halve It,” these forgotten gems offer a refreshing departure from traditional darting formats. By mastering these games, you’ll become a more versatile and adaptable player, capable of thriving in any darting environment. So, gather your friends, dust off your darts, and embark on a journey of darting discovery. The world of obscure dart games awaits!
Ready to take your dart game to the next level? Try out a few of the games on this list and let us know which ones you enjoyed the most in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with your fellow dart enthusiasts and spread the word about the exciting world of obscure dart games.
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.