In Killer Darts, you’ll assign yourself a number between 1 and 20, then stand about 7 feet 9 inches from the board. To become a Killer, you need to hit a double on the outer ring—that’s your ticket to hunting. Once you’re a Killer, you target opponents’ assigned numbers to knock lives off their total. Most players start with three lives, and you’re out when yours hit zero. Smart players track the scoreboard carefully and protect their own numbers while hunting others down, though there’s plenty more tactical depth to master.
Key Takeaways
- Players earn “Killer” status by hitting a double, then target opponents’ numbers to eliminate lives.
- Each player starts with assigned numbers and a set number of lives, typically three.
- Non-Killers lose lives when hit by Killers; players are eliminated when lives reach zero.
- Players take turns in numerical order, throwing darts from behind the oche at the board.
- Use a scoreboard to track remaining lives and player statuses throughout the game for transparency.
Setting Up the Game: Numbers and Player Positions
Before you throw your first dart in Killer, you’ve got to get your setup sorted, and that means assigning numbers and figuring out where everyone’s standing.
Each player gets randomly assigned a number between 1 and 20, or you can pick your favorite. Write these down so nobody forgets.
Everyone stands behind the oche—that’s the throwing line, roughly 7 feet 9 inches from the board. Players take turns in numerical order.
You’ll need at least two players, though Killer works best with three to six people competing simultaneously.
How to Become a Killer: The Double Requirement
To actually become a Killer in this game, you’ve got to hit a double—that’s a section on the outer ring of the dartboard where the point value doubles.
Once you land that double, your name gets written down as a Killer, and you’re officially in the hunt. This requirement keeps things fair and prevents players from claiming Killer status too easily.
You’ll aim for those narrow outer bands, which demand accuracy and control. Hit your double cleanly, and you’re ready to start eliminating other players’ lives.
Miss it, and you’re waiting for your next turn to try again.
Eliminating Opponents Once You’re a Killer
Once you’ve hit that double and earned your Killer status, the real game begins—now you’re actually trying to knock other players out.
You’ve got a license to hunt, mate. Every time you hit your target number, you subtract one life from each opponent who hasn’t reached Killer status yet. When someone loses all their lives, they’re eliminated—game over for them.
You’ll need sharp aim and nerves to survive longer than your rivals.
- Target consistency matters more than lucky shots
- Track remaining lives across all players mentally
- Stay composed when multiple Killers compete simultaneously
Tracking Lives and Scoring During Play
Keeping proper score in Killer darts means you’ve got to stay sharp and organized, because things move fast once multiple players are hunting each other down.
You’ll track each player’s lives on a scoreboard, marking how many remain as the game progresses. When you’re a Killer, you subtract a life from opponents whenever your dart lands in their target number. Meanwhile, other players do the same to you.
Keep the scoreboard visible to everyone, updating it after each turn. This prevents disputes and keeps the pace moving smoothly. You’re fundamentally managing a live leaderboard of who’s closest to elimination.
Costly Mistakes That Eliminate You First
While you’re tracking lives and managing your Killer status, certain mistakes’ll knock you out faster than you’d expect.
Missing your target number repeatedly wastes precious throws, letting opponents advance while you’re stuck.
Hitting someone else’s number by accident actually helps them escape—basically handing them a lifeline.
Losing focus on the scoreboard means you won’t notice when you’ve earned Killer status, costing you scoring opportunities.
- Neglecting your target: Straying from your assigned number kills momentum and wastes scoring chances
- Careless hits: Accidentally marking opponent numbers accelerates their survival and hurts your position
- Scoreboard blindness: Ignoring live tracking causes missed Killer activation and strategic errors
Optional House Rules to Customize Your Game
Now that you’ve got the core rules down and know which mistakes’ll get you eliminated early, you can start tweaking Killer to match your crew’s style.
You might lower the starting lives from three to two for faster games, or bump it up to four for marathon sessions. Some groups allow players to change their assigned number mid-game for a fee.
You could also modify scoring—maybe requiring bull’s-eyes (the center circle) to count double, or letting doubles count as extra points.
These adjustments keep things fresh without breaking the game’s backbone.
Killer Darts Winning Strategies: How to Dominate
To consistently knock players out before they eliminate you, you’ll need to master three core skills: accuracy with your assigned number, smart number selection, and mental toughness under pressure.
Here’s what separates winners from everyone else:
- Target high-value numbers early – Going after 20s and 19s forces opponents into tougher positions while you rack up quick eliminations.
- Protect your own number – Once you’re “alive,” defend it fiercely because losing it means instant elimination.
- Stay calm under pressure – You’ll face clutch moments where one dart determines everything, so breathing and focusing matter more than raw power.
Practice these fundamentals consistently, and you’ll dominate your local league.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Dart Board Setup and Equipment Do You Need to Play Killer Darts?
Like a surgeon needs sharp instruments, you’ll need precision equipment to play killer darts properly.
You’ll want a standard bristle dartboard mounted at 5’8″ high, with the bullseye center at eye level.
Grab three darts per player—they’re typically 16-20 grams.
You’ll also need chalk for scoring, a solid throwing line (the oche) positioned 7’9¾” away, and honestly, good lighting so you’re not squinting like you’ve had too many.
Can You Play Killer Darts With Only Two Players or More Than Six?
You can absolutely play Killer with just two players, though it’s less chaotic than with a full group.
The game works fine with any number of players really, though most reckon three to six is the sweet spot.
Two players means you’ve got fewer lives to manage, making matches quicker.
Beyond six, rounds drag on a bit, but nothing stops you from trying it.
How Do You Restart a Game if Someone Accidentally Hits the Wrong Target?
You’ve got a few options when someone misses their target. You can restart that player’s turn immediately, letting them shoot again at their correct number.
Alternatively, you’ll restart the entire round if the group agrees it’s fairer. Most players simply accept the missed dart as part of the game, treating it like any other failed attempt.
Check your house rules beforehand to avoid confusion mid-match.
What Happens if a Player Throws a Dart After the Round Officially Ends?
If you toss a dart after the round’s officially finished, that throw doesn’t count—it’s dead in the water.
The round’s closed, scores are locked in, and any late darts get ignored completely.
You’ve basically wasted a perfectly good projectile.
Everyone agrees beforehand when rounds end, so there’s no debate.
Keep your throws within the agreed timeframe, and you’ll avoid this awkward situation altogether.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Safety Considerations for Playing Killer Darts?
You’ll want to keep killer darts away from young kids since sharp projectiles and throwing require coordination.
Most venues recommend players be at least 12-14 years old, though adult supervision matters more than age itself.
You’ve got to set up your board at regulation height—5’8″ to the bullseye—and guarantee adequate clearance around the throwing area.
Keep spectators behind the oche (that’s the throw line), and you’re golden for safe, enjoyable play.
