Looking for a way to spice up your next darts night? **Popular pub darts drinking games** are a fantastic way to add some extra fun and competition to the classic game. This article dives into some of the best and most entertaining darts drinking games out there, explaining the rules and offering tips to make your game night a memorable one.
⚠️ 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!
Unveiling the Best Popular Pub Darts Drinking Games
Darts is already a great game, but when you add a drinking element, the stakes get higher and the laughter flows more freely. Remember to always play responsibly and know your limits! Let’s explore some of the most popular pub darts drinking games that are sure to liven up any gathering.
Around the Clock: A Timeless Classic with a Twist
Also known as ‘Around the Board’ or ‘One to Twenty’, this game requires players to hit each number on the dartboard in sequence, from 1 to 20. The twist? Miss a number, and you drink. This game tests your accuracy and consistency, and it can get particularly challenging (and hilarious) as you progress through the numbers.
- Rules: Players must hit each number in order (1-20).
- Drinking: If a player misses the required number on their turn, they take a drink. Some variations require a double or triple of a number.
- Winning: The first player to successfully hit all numbers from 1 to 20 wins.
For more details on a specific variation, check out this guide on Around the Clock drinking game darts. Make sure everyone understands the rules before you begin!
Killer: A Darts Drinking Game of Elimination
Killer is a strategic game that involves eliminating opponents by hitting their designated number. It’s a game of skill, sabotage, and, of course, drinking! This game can be played with a large group, making it perfect for parties.
Killer Game Setup and Gameplay
Each player chooses a number (usually by throwing a dart at the board with their non-dominant hand). To become a ‘Killer’, you must hit your number twice. Once you are a Killer, you can eliminate other players by hitting their number. If you are hit on your number as a ‘Killer’, you lose a life. Lose all lives and you are out!
- Rules: Each player chooses a number. Hit your number twice to become a Killer. Killers eliminate players by hitting their numbers.
- Drinking: When a player is eliminated, they drink (amount determined beforehand). The amount of drinks can also vary if you only hit the single of the number, double or triple.
- Winning: The last player standing (or ‘darting’) wins.
If you are curious, check out our detailed guide on Killer darts drinking game rules before your next game night.
Cricket: A Tactical Darts Drinking Game
Cricket is a strategic game that involves ‘closing’ numbers by hitting them three times and scoring points on those numbers while they are open. It involves a blend of strategy, skill, and a bit of luck. This is one of the popular pub darts drinking games because it requires more thought.
- Rules: Only the numbers 15-20 and the bullseye are used. Players must ‘close’ a number by hitting it three times (singles, doubles, and triples all count). Once a number is closed, only the other players can score points on that number. All numbers must be closed to win.
- Drinking: Drinking penalties can be added for failing to close numbers or for being significantly behind in points.
- Winning: The first player to close all required numbers and have the highest score wins. A player needs to have a score of zero or higher to win. If a player closes all numbers but has a negative score, they cannot win.
Learn the finer points of the game from Cricket darts drinking game rules.
Shanghai: Aim for the Top (and Bottoms Up!)
Shanghai is a fast-paced and exciting game where players aim to score on a specific number each round, progressing from 1 to 20 and then finishing on the bullseye. The goal is to get the highest score on each number possible. If you can get a single, double and a triple on the number of that round, you instantly win with a “Shanghai”.
- Rules: Players play in rounds, each round focusing on a specific number (1, 2, 3, etc.). Players score points by hitting the single, double, or triple of that number.
- Drinking: Penalties are given for scoring zero on a round. Additional drinking can be added for not getting a double or triple on the numbers.
- Winning: The player with the highest score after 20 rounds wins, unless someone achieves a “Shanghai” by hitting a single, double and triple of the current round’s number, instantly winning the game.
Find detailed Shanghai darts drinking game rules on our website.
Other Fun Darts Drinking Game Ideas
Beyond the classics, there are numerous other variations and creative **fun darts drinking game ideas** you can try. These games often involve custom rules and penalties, so feel free to get creative and tailor them to your group’s preferences. Remember to always have fun and keep it light-hearted.
Custom Games and Variations
One popular option is to create your own drinking game based on a standard game like 501. For example, you could implement drinking penalties for specific misses (like hitting a number lower than 10) or rewards for hitting certain targets (like the bullseye). The possibilities are endless!
You could also incorporate rules from other drinking games into your darts game. This could involve implementing a ‘waterfall’ rule where players must continue drinking as long as the previous player is drinking. You can also encourage your creativity by Creating own darts drinking game to suit your style.
Playing Darts Drinking Games Responsibly
While popular pub darts drinking games are meant to be fun, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and responsible drinking. Here are some tips to ensure everyone has a good time without overdoing it. Consider Playing darts drinking games responsibly to maximize your and your friends’ safety.
- Set Limits: Agree on a maximum number of drinks or a time limit for the game.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between alcoholic beverages.
- Eat Food: Have snacks or a meal to slow down alcohol absorption.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your own tolerance and don’t feel pressured to drink more than you’re comfortable with.
- Designate a Sober Player: If possible, have someone who abstains from alcohol to ensure everyone gets home safely.
Safety Tips for Darts Drinking Games
In addition to responsible drinking, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent accidents while playing darts. Make sure the playing area is well-lit and free of obstacles. Also, emphasize safe practices by using Safety tips darts drinking games.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Ensure spectators stand a safe distance away from the dartboard.
- Use Proper Lighting: Good lighting can prevent accidental throws.
- Dartboard Placement: Mount the dartboard securely to prevent it from falling.
- Use Quality Darts: Darts in good condition are less likely to cause injury.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Darts Night with Popular Pub Darts Drinking Games
From the strategic challenges of Cricket to the fast-paced action of Shanghai, popular pub darts drinking games offer a diverse range of options to enhance your darts experience. Remember to play responsibly, prioritize safety, and, most importantly, have fun! With a little creativity and a spirit of friendly competition, you can transform a simple game of darts into an unforgettable night with friends. And if you need some more inspiration, don’t forget to check out Darts Variants Fun Games for other entertaining twists!
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.