Darts: History and Rules of the Game - In Brief

Darts is an exciting game that is played with passion by many people around the world. In order to better understand this sport, it is important to be aware of the history and rules of the game. In this article, I will cover the origins of darts and the most important rules, while also sharing information that will help you become a better player or simply enjoy an exciting darts match.

The History of Darts

Darts is an ancient game that originated in medieval England and has become popular around the world over the years. The first darts were used by military archers for practice. The game was originally designed to help soldiers improve their skills, but it quickly spread to entertain the public.

The history of darts dates back hundreds of years, but modern darts competitions became popular in the 20th century, partly thanks to television. The official rules of the sport are set by the DRA (Darts Regulation Authority).

Darts' popularity is due to its simple rules and easy-to-understand gameplay. In competitions, players aim at different segments on the board, collecting points. The game also contains strategic elements, as the player must skillfully decide which segments to throw into in order to score the most points.

In the modern world, darts is not only played in pubs or clubs, but has become accessible to millions through television broadcasts. In addition, there is the opportunity to play virtual darts on online platforms. The popularity of darts continues to grow, and competitions offer exciting entertainment for both players and spectators. Darts is not just a game, but a culture in which skill and perseverance are valued.

Players must stand behind the throwing line, known as the 'oche' in English, which is 237 cm from the dartboard, and the center of the board is 173 cm high. Each player has the opportunity to throw three darts in each round. An important basic thesis is that those darts have a regular value that the player takes out of the board with his own hand and the tip of the dart touches the sisal surface of the board.

Below I will explain in more detail the most played game mode, which you have more than likely already encountered.

501 Darts Basic Rules

In most competitions, 501 darts is the most commonly played form. Each player starts the game with 501 points, and the goal is to get this score to zero as quickly as possible. In each round, players have three darts to throw to get the highest possible value. After each round, the value of the three darts thrown is added up (except if the double sector thrown to reach 0 is hit on the first or second dart), which is then deducted from the remaining score. In the standard case, this game is played with a double exit, so you have to reach zero with a double sector. If you succeed, you have won the “leg”.

Depending on the event, a match can be played to X legs won (first to X leg = best of (X*2)+1 leg) or to a so-called set. The annual PDC World Championship is also held in the latter format. A set typically lasts for 3 legs won, but in the case of home championships, the number of sets to be won and the number of legs to be won in a set can be freely chosen, although if we take as a basis that a match played to 5 legs won, where 3 legs are required per set, is played by professionals for over 2 hours, then it is worth adding up the numbers for fun.

Dartboard Segments and Values

On each board, there is a ring of points around the board that shows how many points a given sector (shaped like a slice of cheese) is worth. Within a given sector on a darts board, there are different segments that represent different values. Take sector 20 at the top of the board as an example. As we move towards the middle of the board, the colors of each segment change as follows. Red (double) – black (single) – red (triple) – black (single) – green (outer bull: 25) – red (bull or double bull, bullseye: 50). So, as mentioned above, different rings represent different point values. In the outer ring, i.e. the double ring, the score is doubled, and in the inner or triple ring, the score is tripled for each sector. In addition, there is the already mentioned inner bullseye (red), which is worth 50 points, and the outer bullseye (green), which is worth 25 points. Players must tactically choose where to throw their arrows in order to use up the 501 points as quickly as possible. It is important to note that the minimum number of arrows to start from 501 points is 9 arrows. It is mathematically impossible to solve the task with less than this.

Darts: A Game of Skill That Requires Accuracy and Perseverance

Darts is not just a simple game, it is a sport that requires perseverance, practice and precision. The history of the game is rich and exciting, and the competitive players are extremely talented and dedicated. Mastering the right technique and tactics can help you celebrate your victories as an excellent darts player.

And for those who would like to develop their skills in this sport, we recommend our regularly updated practice tasks, from which you can even choose individually.

We hope this article has helped you understand the basics of darts and will be helpful for your next darts match. If you also want to have quality darts equipment, take a look at our webshop, where you can find a wide range of high-quality darts sets and accessories, and if you need help, you can ask for help at any of my contacts. We wish all darts fans a good game and good luck!