Playing darts involves throwing small, feathered missiles at a circular, numbered target affixed to a wall. Many bowling alleys offer darts, and there are several games you can play when you go to the lanes with friends and family. Here are a few fun variations to try on your next evening out.

What Are Some Popular Dart Games?

1. Baseball

This game requires players to score as many points as possible per inning for a total of nine innings. An inning concludes after each player throws three darts at the board. To score points, participants must hit the number on the board that corresponds to the inning. For instance, in the first inning, they must hit a one to score a homerun. Hitting a single, which refers to the larger segments on the board, counts as one run; hitting a double, which is the board's outer ring, counts as two; and hitting a triple, which is the inner ring, counts as three. At the end of the ninth inning, the player with the most runs wins.

2. Shanghai

Shanghai involves players taking turns throwing missiles at numbers one through seven in sequence. Each participant throws three darts per turn, and only the missiles that hit the number in play count toward their score. For instance, while number one is in play, participants score a single point each time a missile lands on a one. The player with the most points at the end of the seventh round wins. However, if anyone scores "shanghai," which happens after hitting the single, double, and triple of a number in play, they automatically win the game.

3. Killer

To start a game of killer, each player throws a missile with their non-dominant hand, and whatever number it lands on becomes their number. First, participants must try to hit the double of their own number. The first player who achieves this becomes a "killer" and may then aim for the doubles on their opponents' numbers. When the killer hits an opponent's double, that player loses a life. If the killer hits their own double, they lose one of their own lives. Each participant has three lives, and the winner of the game is the last player with any lives left. 

4. Around the World

The object of this game, which requires only two players, is to be the first participant to hit all numbers from 1 to 20. Any part of the number, meaning the single, double, or triple, counts toward this goal. However, players must hit each number in order. If a player does not hit the right number after three throws, they must alternate and try again during their next turn.

When you're in the mood to play darts, head to Capri Bowling Lanes. Located in Kettering, OH, they offer bowling and entertainment along with delicious pizza and drinks. Call (937) 298-7411 to ask about bowling rates or reserve the party room, and visit the website to learn more about bowling leagues and other amenities.