Playtime in pubs and game rooms takes on a new meaning with the classic game of darts. Among the various games available, Darts 701 stands out as a favorite for competitive players and casual participants alike. This exciting game combines strategy, skill, and a touch of luck, making it an engaging choice for players of all levels. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of playing Darts 701, discussing its rules, strategies, tips, and variations. Let’s aim for the bullseye together!
What is Darts 701?
Darts 701 is a popular variation of the classic dart game where players start with a score of 701 points and work their way down to exactly zero. Unlike other variations, players must finish on a double, adding an element of strategy and precision to the game.
Basics of Darts 701
Before jumping into the specifics of playing Darts 701, it’s crucial to understand some essential terminology and equipment.
Equipment Required
To play Darts 701, you will need:
- Dartboard: A standard bristle dartboard is preferred, with sections numbered from 1 to 20, plus a bullseye.
- Darts: Ideally, players should have their own set of three darts. Darts typically weigh between 16 to 26 grams.
- Scoreboard: A chalkboard or a scoreboard to keep track of scores is essential.
- Measuring Tape: To ensure the throwing distance is correct (typically 7 feet 9 1/4 inches from the board to the throw line).
Understanding the Scoring System
Scoring in Darts 701 is straightforward but requires knowledge of the dartboard layout:
- Single Area: The outer section of each number counts for that number.
- Double Area: The thin outer ring of each number counts as double the score.
- Triple Area: The thin inner ring counts as triple the score.
- Bullseye: The outer bullseye is worth 25 points, while the inner bullseye is worth 50 points.
Setting Up the Game
Playing Darts 701 starts with a few preliminary steps:
Player Setup
- Determine the Players: Darts 701 can be played in singles or doubles. Each player throws their darts in turns.
- Decide the Order: Players can throw a dart each at the bullseye. The one closest goes first, followed by the others clockwise.
Throwing Distance
Step back from the dartboard to the throw line, also called the oche. The standard distance is:
- 7 feet 9 1/4 inches: This is the distance from the edge of the dartboard to the throw line.
Make sure that players respect the throw line while taking their turns.
Gameplay Rules for Darts 701
The heart of Darts 701 lies in its simple yet strategic gameplay. Let’s explore how to play.
Starting the Game
- Each player begins with a score of 701 points.
- Players take turns throwing three darts in each round.
- After each turn, players subtract the total points earned in that round from their current score.
Ending the Game
To win the game, a player must reduce their score to exactly zero. However, the score must end on a double. This means that if a player’s score reaches a position where they cannot finish on a double on their next turn, they will have to go back to their prior score before that round.
Example of Ending on a Double
Suppose a player has 40 points left. To win, they must hit a double 20, which scores 40 points exactly. If that player throws and hits a single 20 instead, their score becomes 20, forcing them to aim for a double with their next turn.
Turn Rotation
From the start to the finish of the game, players alternate turns. A typical round consists of each player throwing their three darts in succession, aiming to accumulate the highest score while moving towards zero.
Strategies for Success in Darts 701
To excel in Darts 701, players must not only rely on luck but also employ various strategies. Here are some effective techniques:
Aim for the High Scores
Focus on scoring points that allow a rapid reduction in total points—hitting triples 20 is highly advantageous, as it offers the highest scoring potential.
Plan Your Route to Zero
Always consider how your scores will allow you to finish on a double. Having a mental note of possible scores that can get you to a double helps in strategizing your approach.
Understand the Double “Out” Strategy
Players should familiarize themselves with the doubles on the board. For instance, if you have 64 points, it can be beneficial to aim for double 32, providing multiple routes to zero.
Practice Makes Perfect
Regular practice is key to improving your aim and accuracy. Take time to practice throwing darts at different sections of the board, focusing on triples and doubles to enhance your finishing skills.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players can fall into traps during the game. Here are a few common pitfalls and ways to avoid them:
Ignoring the Finish
Players sometimes forget to plan for how they will finish, leading them to go bust. Always map out your pathway to zero before you score.
Overconfidence
While it’s crucial to be confident, overestimating your skills can lead to mistakes. Remain focused and composed during each turn.
Variations of Darts 701 to Enjoy
Besides the standard format of Darts 701, players can introduce exciting variations to keep the game fresh. Here are a couple of fun variations:
Team Play
When playing in larger groups, you can have teams of two or even larger. Teams can take turns collectively until a team wins, fostering camaraderie and shared strategy.
Scoring Adjustments
For a twist, players can adjust starting points (as low as 501) or modify the scoring rules where players can finish on a single or triple, providing a different level of challenge.
Conclusion
Darts 701 is not merely a game of chance; it combines skill, strategy, and a bit of fate. Understanding the rules, practicing diligently, and planning your moves can significantly enhance your experience and performance. Whether you’re championing your local league or enjoying a friendly match at home, the thrill of throwing darts will keep the spirit of the game alive.
So, grab your darts, gather some friends, and head to the dartboard. Aim true, strike confidently, and enjoy the beautiful game of Darts 701!
What is the objective of the game 701 in darts?
The objective of 701 in darts is to reach a score of exactly zero by reducing your total score from 701 through a series of throws. Players take turns throwing three darts each round, aiming to hit specific areas of the dartboard that contribute to their score. The key strategy involves strategizing which numbers to aim for, as well as considering how to best set up for a successful finish.
In 701, players must also account for the “double-out” rule, meaning that the final dart thrown must land in a double area to successfully reach zero. This adds an extra layer of challenge, as players need to ensure they plan their throws in such a way that they land in an appropriate scoring zone, making it crucial to practice both high-scoring areas and doubles.
How do you keep score in 701?
Scoring in 701 involves starting with a total of 701 points for each player. After each player takes their three darts, the scores from the darts hit are totaled and subtracted from that player’s current score. For example, if you throw a dart that hits the triple 20, which is worth 60 points, and you hit two singles worth 5 and 1, your score for that turn would be 66 points, which you would subtract from your starting 701.
It’s essential to track your score accurately as you go along, often using a chalkboard or digital scoring app to maintain clarity. Players should also announce their remaining score to keep everyone on the same page. This accountability helps to ensure that scoring errors are minimized, allowing each player to fully engage with the game.
What are the key rules to playing 701?
In addition to scoring rules, some key rules of 701 include the order of play and how players finish the game. Players take turns throwing their three darts, with the first player typically determined by a pre-game throw-off. After that, the game is played in alternating turns until one player successfully reaches a score of zero.
Another critical rule is that players must hit a double on their final throw to win the game. If a player reduces their score to one, they bust and their score returns to what it was at the beginning of that turn. Awareness of these rules is vital for maintaining the game’s integrity and ensuring fair play among participants.
What strategies are effective for winning 701?
Effective strategies for winning at 701 often involve targeting the high-scoring areas of the dartboard early in the game. By focusing on high-value numbers such as the triple 20, players can quickly reduce their scores, gaining an advantage over their opponents. It is also beneficial to have a consistent throwing technique, as this can increase accuracy and help land darts in the desired scoring zones.
As players progress and their scores get lower, it becomes crucial to shift strategies to setting up for a double finish. Understanding your own strengths and weaknesses with respect to specific doubles can help in planning throws. A player may also wish to track their opponent’s score and adjust their scoring strategy accordingly, either to block potential winning chances or to take larger risks based on their current standing.
Can beginners play 701, and how can they improve?
Yes, beginners can certainly play 701, and it can be a great way to learn the basics of darts. While the game’s rules may seem daunting at first, they quickly become more intuitive with practice. Beginners are encouraged to focus initially on learning how to throw effectively and scoring accurately, even if they might not understand all strategic aspects right away.
Improvement comes with consistent practice, so beginners should spend time honing their skills both in practice settings and casual games. Watching experienced players can also provide insights into successful strategies and techniques. Many players find benefit in tracking their progress and setting small achievable goals, such as improving their accuracy or mastering certain target areas on the board.
What equipment do I need to play 701?
To play 701, you need a standard dartboard and a set of darts. A bristle dartboard is commonly used, which is made from sisal fibers that allow darts to embed and be removed easily. Ensure that the board is hung at the correct height, with the bullseye positioned 5 feet 8 inches from the ground. This standard setup is crucial for establishing a fair playing environment.
Additionally, players may benefit from having a scoring method, like a chalkboard or paper for keeping track of scores throughout the game. Some players also choose to use magnetic boards for casual play, especially for young players. Comfortable footwear and a clear space around the dartboard enhance the playing experience, allowing players to focus entirely on their game.