Just Add Water and Target Darts have announced Target Arcade, a new suite of interactive darts games using connected hardware, set to debut with Target Dartzone venues across the UK from 24 August 2026
Target Darts has confirmed a partnership with UK studio Just Add Water to launch Target Arcade, a new platform of interactive darts games powered by connected hardware. The announcement marks a significant move for Target Darts as it expands from traditional equipment manufacturing into venue-based digital gaming, with the first Target Dartzone locations scheduled to open on 24 August 2026.
Connected darts as game input
Target Arcade is built around the OMNI Auto Scoring System, which uses cameras to track dart positions on a standard board. This data is then used as direct input for a range of digital games, allowing players to use real darts as controllers. At launch, the platform will offer seven games, including Board is Lava, Battlesplash and Alien Invasion, with additional titles planned for monthly release. The system is designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced darts enthusiasts.
Venue rollout and player experience
The Target Dartzone venues will combine the new Arcade platform with social gaming and digital competition, aiming to attract groups with varying levels of darts experience. According to the official announcement, 20 venues are set to open across the UK from late August 2026, each equipped with the connected hardware and access to the growing catalogue of Target Arcade games. The approach is intended to bridge the gap between physical and digital play, with the way players throw their darts directly affecting their performance in each game mode.
Development and ongoing content
Just Add Water, known for its work on the Oddworld series and other titles, is responsible for developing the digital games for the platform. The studio has emphasised the design challenge of making the games both accessible and innovative, leveraging the unique hardware to create new types of group experiences. Target Darts has stated that new games will be added to the Arcade platform each month, establishing a regular content pipeline for participating venues. Further details on the initial game lineup and venue locations are expected ahead of launch.
Target Arcade's use of connected hardware highlights the growing trend of integrating physical input devices with digital gaming experiences. In this context, the OMNI Auto Scoring System functions as a bridge between traditional darts and interactive software, enabling new forms of play that rely on accurate real-world input. This approach differs from conventional controller-based gaming by making the player's physical actions central to the digital experience, a model increasingly seen in location-based entertainment and competitive social venues.
