Darts Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts for Newcomers

Welcome to Arrowsmiths, your go-to destination for all things interactive darts! If you're new to the thrilling world of darts, you might be eager to start hitting those bullseyes and scoring big. But before you grab your darts and head to the board, it's essential to know the unspoken rules that keep the game fun and friendly. Today, we’re covering the do's and don'ts of darts etiquette, so you can enjoy the game, make new friends, and maybe even become a darting legend!

One of the fundamental rules of darts is to respect your turn. Each player gets their chance to throw three darts before the next person steps up. Patience is key here. Stand back and give the player on the oche (the area where you stand to throw) their space to concentrate. One of the great things about interactive darts is that our board will tell you exactly when it’s your turn, so there’s no risk in mixing up who’s next!

Interactive Darts is more fun with friends, so part of the fun is cheering each other on. Whether someone hits a bullseye or misses the board entirely, a little encouragement goes a long way. A simple “Great shot!” or “You’ll get it next time!” can boost morale and keep the atmosphere positive.

When someone is throwing, keep a respectful distance from the board and the player. This not only ensures safety but also reduces distractions. Standing too close can make players nervous, so give them room to focus – and in the unlikely event of a dart hitting the wire, you’ll be safely out of range of any bounceback.

Our interactive dartboards keep score automatically, so even if you’re not a maths whizz, we’ve got you covered. Alternatively, if you can quickly calculate exactly what’s needed for a big checkout finish, why not try and beat the board to impress your friends.

When you’re done with your arrows, pass them on to the next player politely and safely. Don’t throw it back or place it carelessly. A little respect for others' equipment goes a long way in maintaining good relations.

Avoid making loud noises, sudden movements, or unnecessary comments when someone is about to throw. Concentration is crucial in darts, and distractions can throw off even the best players. So, save that hilarious story for after they’ve taken their shot.

We get it, interactive darts is a lot of fun. But remember, it’s a group activity. Our digital boards will make sure everyone gets an equal chance to play, so step up to the board when you’re called and that way everyone will get a go! 

Always throw from behind the oche – you’ll find three different lines on the floor at Arrowsmiths, and as a general rule of thumb, the less experienced a darts player you are, the closer you stand to the board. It's pro darts, it’s also there for a reason - to ensure everyone throws from the same distance. Throwing from the wrong spot gives you an unfair advantage and breaks the flow of the game.

Another lovely thing about interactive darts is that disagreements over scoring are a thing of the past. Most importantly, stay composed and relaxed. It’s just a game, after all!

Avoid touching the dartboard unless you’re removing your darts. Touching the board can loosen segments and reduce its lifespan. Plus, no one likes a meddler. Let the board do its job without interference.

While a healthy dose of competition is great, remember to keep it friendly. Trash-talking can ruin the fun for everyone – it’s interactive darts, not a mixed martial arts weigh in. Celebrate your wins and accept your losses graciously, and everyone will have a better time because of it.

Whether someone scores their first bullseye or finishes a challenging checkout, celebrate it! Applauding achievements, big or small, fosters a sense of community and keeps the energy high. Remember, the primary goal of playing darts is to have fun. Keep the atmosphere lighthearted with some playful banter and witty remarks. Just make sure everyone’s in on the joke!

Beyond the do’s and don’ts, there are some common courtesies that make the darting experience more enjoyable for everyone:

Give people enough room to move freely around the dartboard area. Personal space isn’t just about physical distance; it’s also about making others feel comfortable.

If you’ve agreed to meet at a specific time, try to be punctual. Our sessions at Arrowsmiths tend to be around 90 minutes long, and since no one likes waiting around, being on time shows you value everyone’s time.

Last but not least, have fun! Interactive darts is a game meant to be enjoyed. Laugh, cheer, compete, and savour every moment. So there you have it - your comprehensive guide to interactive darts etiquette. By following these do's and don'ts, you’ll ensure a fun, friendly, and fair game for everyone involved. So, grab your darts, gather your friends, and head to your favourite Arrowsmiths interactive darts venue. Remember to respect the game, the players, and the spirit of camaraderie, and you’re sure to make your evening a real bullseye of a winner.