Around the Clock

Be the first player to hit every number on the dartboard in sequential order — 1 through 20 — and then finish on the bullseye.

Any number of players can participate. No scoreboard is needed beyond tracking which number each player is currently on. Decide throwing order by each player throwing one dart at the bullseye; closest goes first.

Players take turns throwing three darts per visit. On each turn, you are trying to hit your current target number. You start on 1 and work your way up.

• If your first dart hits 1, your target immediately advances to 2 for your second dart.
• If your second dart hits 2, your target advances to 3 for your third dart.
• You can advance up to three numbers per turn if all three darts hit their targets.

Any segment of the target number counts — single, double, or triple. Only the target number counts; darts landing in any other number are wasted.

After completing 1 through 20, the final target is the bullseye (either inner or outer bull counts in standard rules).

There is no point-based scoring. Progress is measured solely by which number each player is currently trying to hit. The first player to complete the sequence wins.

The first player to hit all 21 targets (1–20 plus bullseye) wins the game. If playing in a group, remaining players can continue to determine second place, third place, etc.

Doubles Only: Each number must be hit in the double ring. Significantly harder and takes much longer.

Triples Only: Each number must be hit in the triple ring. Extremely difficult — a true test of accuracy.

Doubles and Triples: Hitting a double advances you two numbers; hitting a triple advances you three. Rewards precision with faster progress.

Reverse Around the Clock: Start at 20 and work down to 1, finishing on bullseye.

180 Around the Clock: Start at 1, but each number must be hit with a combined score of exactly that number's value across up to three darts. A training variant.

Perfect for beginners: Around the Clock teaches board geography — you'll learn where every number is located, which is essential for all other dart games.

Use it as a warm-up: Many competitive players use Around the Clock at the start of practice sessions to ensure they're comfortable hitting every segment.

Focus on accuracy, not speed: Rushing leads to wild throws. Take your time aiming at each number deliberately.

Learn the board layout: The standard dartboard places numbers in a specific non-sequential pattern designed to penalize inaccuracy. Knowing where 1 is relative to 20 (they're on opposite sides) is fundamental.