Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
In the game of 501, players throw darts at a dartboard with the objective of reaching exactly zero points from a starting total of 501. Here are the basic rules:
- Players: The game is typically played between two players or two teams.
- Starting Score: Each player/team begins with a starting score of 501.
- Scoring: Players take turns throwing three darts per round, aiming to hit the numbered sections of the dartboard. The scores are based on the section hit:
- Single Section: The score on the numbered section where the dart lands.Double Section: The score on the numbered section is multiplied by 2. Triple Section: The score on the numbered section is multiplied by 3.
- Subtracting Points: After each turn, the score is subtracted from the starting total of 501. The subtracted score is determined by the total points scored in that round. For example, if a player scores 60 points in a round, their score will be reduced by 60.
- Finishing: A player must reach zero points by subtracting their score to win the game. The last dart thrown must land in a double or the inner bullseye to reach zero.
- Bust: If a player’s remaining score goes below zero or becomes negative after a round, their score is “busted,” they return to their previous score before that round began.
- Winning: The game is typically played as a race to zero, and the first player/team to reach exactly zero points wins. If both players/teams reach zero in the same round, the player/team with the fewest remaining points wins.
These are the basic rules of 501 in darts. Variations and additional rules can be added for different game formats, but these rules should give you a good understanding to get started.