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In the game of 301 in darts, the objective is to be the first player or team to reduce their score from 301 points down to exactly zero. Here are the basic rules of 301:
- Players: The game can be played between two players or two teams, with each team having one or more players.
- Starting Score: Each player/team starts with a score of 301 points.
- Turn Structure: Players take turns throwing three darts each in their respective rounds.
- Scoring: The score of each dart throw is subtracted from the player’s/team’s total score. The scoring areas on the dartboard are divided into different sections, each with a point value. The units include the single, double, and triple rings of each number from 1 to 20, the outer bullseye (25 points), and the inner bullseye (50 points).
- Busting: Players must reach exactly zero to win the game. If a player’s score goes below zero, their score for that round reverts to what it was at the start of that round.
- Finishing: To win the game, a player/team must reach zero by hitting a double or the inner bullseye. The last dart thrown must land in a scoring area to bring the total score down to zero. If a player’s/team’s score is reduced to 1 or below zero, they are considered “busted,” and their turn ends.
- Winning: The winner is the first player/team to reach zero points.
- Variations: There are variations of 301, such as Double In/Double Out (where the game starts with a double and ends with a double), or Triple In/Double Out (where the game starts with a triple and ends with a double).
These are the basic rules of 301 in darts. Additional rules and variations might apply in professional games, so it’s always a good idea to clarify any specific rules before playing.