Play Killer here
Pick the number of players and lives, then tap the number each dart hit. For a double or a treble, pick the multiplier first. The scorer hands out numbers, takes lives and moves to the next player for you.
How it works
- Each player has their own number, from 1 to 20, and a number of lives (usually 3).
- Hit the double of your number to become a killer.
- A killer takes a life from every player whose double they hit. With no lives left, you are out.
- The last player standing wins.
1. Getting your number
On the first turn, everyone throws for a number: the first number from 1 to 20 you hit becomes yours, whether single, double or treble. That ends your visit.
A number already taken, the Bull or a miss gives nothing: throw again with your remaining darts, and on the next turn if needed. Two players can never share a number.
In pubs, this first throw is often made with the weaker hand, so luck decides.
2. Becoming a killer
Once you have a number, hit its double (the outer ring of the segment) to become a killer. Until then, hitting an opponent’s double does nothing to them.
From then on, only doubles count: a single or a treble, even on the right number, does nothing.
3. Taking lives
A killer takes a life from the player whose double they hit. Three darts means up to three lives in one visit, on one or several opponents.
Watch your own double: a killer who hits it loses a life. Hitting the double of a number nobody owns, or of a player who is already out, does nothing.
Worked example
Three players, Lea, Tom and Sam, three lives each. The first two turns:
| Visit | Darts | What happens | Lives L · T · S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lea | 20 | 20 is free: it is her number. That ends her visit. | 3 · 3 · 3 |
| Tom | 20, 1 | 20 is taken, so he throws again. 1 is free: it is his. | 3 · 3 · 3 |
| Sam | Bull, 5 | The Bull gives no number. Sam takes 5. | 3 · 3 · 3 |
| Lea | D20, D1, 20 | Double 20 makes her a killer. Double 1 takes a life from Tom. The single 20 does nothing. | 3 · 2 · 3 |
| Tom | D1, T5, D20 | Double 1 makes him a killer. The treble 5 does not count: only doubles do. Double 20 costs Lea a life. | 2 · 2 · 3 |
| Sam | 5, D5, D5 | Double 5 makes him a killer, but the next dart hits his own double: one life lost. | 2 · 2 · 2 |
After two turns, everyone is a killer with two lives. The game is now played on the doubles: Lea aims at D1 and D5 while avoiding D20.
Common variants
- A killer hitting their own double: in DartCV they lose a life (the most common pub rule). Elsewhere they only lose their killer status and must win it back.
- Becoming a killer in several hits: some groups ask for three marks on your number (a single is one mark, a double two, a treble three) instead of one double.
- Number of lives: three is the most common, five for a longer game. DartCV offers 1 to 5 lives.
- Assigning numbers: throw with the weaker hand, draw lots, or let everyone choose. Agree before you start.
Strategy tips
- Become a killer fast: until you are, you cannot touch anyone, while they can already aim at you.
- Go after the most dangerous killer rather than the weakest player: they are the one taking your lives.
- Finish off players on one life: a player who is out can no longer hit you.
- Mind the neighbouring numbers: if your number sits next to an opponent’s on the board, a dart slightly off can land on your own double.
What the DartCV app adds
- Up to 8 players, with their profiles and the history of every game.
- Camera scoring: point your phone at the board and DartCV reads the darts for you, doubles included.
- The TV screen: every player’s number, lives and killer status shown big for the whole room.
- More group games such as Cricket, Shanghai or Golf: see all the darts games.
Frequently asked questions
How many players for Killer?
Two or more, but it really comes alive from four players. The DartCV app takes up to 8.
How many lives in Killer?
Usually three. DartCV lets you choose 1 to 5 lives.
Do you need a double to become a killer?
Yes, in the most common rules and in DartCV: one double on your own number. Some groups ask for three marks instead.
What happens if a killer hits their own double?
In DartCV they lose a life, as in most pubs. A variant only takes away their killer status.
Do trebles count in Killer?
Not for taking lives: only doubles count. When throwing for your number on the first turn, single, double and treble are all the same.
Can two players have the same number?
No. If you hit a number that is already taken while throwing for yours, throw again.