The quiet hours of the night offer a unique sense of peace. While the rest of the world sleeps, night owls find their rhythm in the calm, distraction-free environment of the late hours. For those who stay up late, finding a hobby that is engaging yet quiet enough not to disturb others can be a challenge. Throwing darts is an excellent solution. It requires minimal space, sharpens focus, and offers a satisfying physical outlet. Here are 12 simple dart games and routines perfectly suited for night owls looking to master the board under the midnight oil.
1. Around the ClockThis classic training game is perfect for a quiet night alone. The goal is simple: hit every number on the board in numerical order from 1 to 20, finishing with the bullseye. Because it focuses on single segments, it builds a foundational muscle memory without the pressure of complex scoring. The repetitive motion induces a meditative state, making it an ideal wind-down activity before sleep.
2. The Quiet Count-UpCount-Up is a straightforward game where the player aims to get the highest score possible over a set number of rounds, typically eight. For night owls, this game serves as an excellent tracking tool. Without the distraction of an opponent, a solo player can focus entirely on stance, grip, and release, aiming for the high-scoring twenties to break personal records.
3. Catch 40This routine is designed to improve checkout skills, which are critical for competitive play. The player starts with a score of 41 and must turn it into zero using exactly three darts, ending on a double. If successful, the starting score increases by one for the next turn. It provides a gentle mental workout that keeps the brain active without causing late-night frustration.
4. Halve ItHalve It selects a specific set of targets before the game begins, such as 20, 16, any double, and 14. The player throws three darts at the first target, adding up the points. If all three darts miss the designated target, the player’s total cumulative score is cut in half. The risk element adds a thrilling spark to an otherwise quiet room.
5. ShanghaiNamed after the famous darting achievement, this game requires the player to hit the single, double, and triple of a specific number in a single turn. For a midnight practice session, a player can start at number 1 and move up the board. Achieving a “Shanghai” feels incredibly rewarding and breaks up the monotony of standard target practice.
6. Twenty to OneInverse to the traditional ascent, this routine starts at 20 and works down to 1. It forces the player to constantly adjust their throwing arc and eye level as they move around the board. This constant calibration keeps the mind sharp and helps night owls develop a versatile throw that can adapt to any target on a whim.
7. The Bullseye MarathonThe center of the board is the ultimate test of accuracy. In this simple routine, the player throws 50 darts exclusively at the bullseye, counting one point for the outer ring and two points for the inner red circle. It is a fantastic way to build consistency, as the repeated focus on a single central point locks in proper alignment.
8. Double TroubleMany players struggle with doubles, which are required to win most standard matches. This game focuses entirely on the outer ring of the board. The player takes three shots at each double, starting from 1 and moving up to 20. Keeping track of how many doubles are hit out of 60 total throws provides a clear metric of improvement over time.
9. Triple TrainingSimilar to the doubles routine, this game targets the small inner ring that yields three times the point value. Triples are essential for scoring big chunks of points quickly. Spending a late-night session targeting only the triples of 20, 19, and 18 helps build the precision needed to dominate standard scoring games.
10. Bob’s 27Invented by world champion Bob Anderson, this game starts the player with 27 points. The player throws three darts at double 1. Every hit adds 2 points, but missing with all three darts subtracts 2 points. The game moves sequentially through all the doubles up to 20. If the score drops below zero, the game ends, providing a fun challenge against oneself.
11. Five AliveThis routine gives the player five “lives” to start. The goal is to score a minimum of 40 points with each three-dart turn. Failing to reach 40 costs one life. The game continues until all lives are lost. It introduces a manageable level of pressure, simulating the tension of a real match within the comfort of a silent house.
12. The Cricket DrillCricket is one of the most popular dart games in the world, focusing on numbers 15 through 20 and the bullseye. The night owl version involves hitting each of these targets three times to “close” them out. It serves as an excellent refresher course on the most valuable real estate on the dartboard, ensuring readiness for future social games.
Engaging in these simple dart routines allows night owls to transform their late-night wakefulness into a productive, skill-building session. The quiet of the night provides the perfect backdrop for deep focus, enabling players to analyze their form and tracking habits without interruption. By turning the dartboard into a midnight companion, nocturnal players can sharpen their coordination, relieve daily stress, and enjoy a fulfilling hobby long after the rest of the world has gone to sleep.
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