Zap darts rules

In Zap (often called 321 Zap), every player starts on zero and adds their points each turn: the first to reach exactly the target score, usually 321 (521, 721 or 921 for longer games), wins. The twist: if your total becomes exactly equal to an opponent's score, you "zap" them and their score drops back to zero. The name comes from Scorpion electronic dartboards; on other machines and in scoring apps, the same idea is often called "Elimination".

Players: 2 to 8, more fun with 3 or more
Length: 10 to 20 minutes
Goal: Reach exactly 321 (or 521, 721, 921)
Darts per turn: 3

How it works

Everyone starts on zero. In turn, each player throws three darts and adds their total to their score, with the usual scoring: the segment number, double on the outer ring, treble on the inner ring, 25 and 50 for the bull. The first to land exactly on 321 wins the game.

The zap

If your total becomes exactly equal to an opponent's score, they're "zapped": their score drops back to zero. Example: you're on 140 and your opponent on 180; you hit double 20 (40), reach 180, and they start again from zero.

So you play as much for the others' scores as for 321. Scorpion boards even count each player's zaps in their statistics.

Going over 321

You have to land exactly on 321. If you go over, you move back down by the extra points: on 300, a treble 20 takes you to 360, 39 too many, so you drop back to 282. Your turn goes on, and the score you land on while coming back counts like any other: if it matches an opponent's, they're zapped. Some tables play going over like a bust in X01 (the turn is cancelled) instead: agree before you start.

Variants

Double in and double out

Scorpion boards offer double in (a double to start scoring) and double out (finish on 321 with a double).

Split or solid bull

Depending on the setting, the bull is always 50, or 25 for the outer bull and 50 for the bullseye.

Round limit

The game can stop after a number of rounds set on the machine: the highest score wins.

Elimination to 301

Same idea on other boards and in scoring apps, often up to 301 instead of 321.

Common mistakes

Forgetting to watch your opponents' scores: a well-placed zap is often worth more than a big score.
Rushing towards 321 without counting: near the target, aim for exactly what you need.
Not checking the machine settings (double out, round limit) before you play.

Frequently asked questions

Are Zap, 321 Zap and Elimination the same game?

Same idea: you count up to a target score and send back to zero any opponent whose score you match. 321 Zap is the name on Scorpion boards; elsewhere it's often played up to 301 as Elimination.

What happens when you get zapped?

Your score drops back to zero and you start again. You can zap the others in turn by landing exactly on their score.

Can you play it with two players?

Yes, but it really comes alive with three or more: more scores to aim at, and more twists.