“Dart Games – Shanghai.”

Dart games have meaning. Don’t believe me? Consider our dart game in today’s post, “Shanghai”. Here’s the scenario, you’re walking down the hallway at work, and out of nowhere a co-worker stops you and says, “Hey, do you have a minute?” At this point you innocently agree to stop and talk. Thinking of course it will only take a minute. Thirty minutes later, you finally walk away only to find yourself involved in office politics and time-wasting gossip.

Congratulations, you’ve just been Shanghaied.

The term Shanghai means that you have been tricked, coerced, or manipulated into doing something you did not intend to do. Its historical origins can be traced back to the mid-1800’s when unsuspecting men were abducted in port cities and forced to work as sailors on cargo ships.

Now that we’ve discussed the grim details of the term’s origin, let’s explore how the term’s meaning applies to the dart game “Shanghai.”

The Dart Game – Shanghai | Objective

The goal of this dart game is to score the highest points on a specific number each round of play. A player instantly wins when they score a single, a double, and a triple on the number in one round. This occurrence borrows meaning from the term “Shanghai”. The game is literally taken from all other players by this scoring feat!

Dart Playing Rules – Shanghai

The goal of this dart game is to score the highest points on a specific number each round of play. A player instantly wins when they score a single, a double, and a triple on the number in one round. This occurrence borrows meaning from the term “Shanghai”. The game is literally taken from all other players by this scoring feat!

Dart Playing Rules – Shanghai

Shanghai dart rules are as follows:

• Two or more players. You can also play solo for practice.
• The game is traditionally played seven rounds on numbers 1 through 7.
• Each round is assigned to a specific number on the dartboard.
• Throwing order is determined by pre-round throw, player closest to the bullseye goes first.
• No scores for any hits other than the assigned number for each round.
• A player who hits a single, a double and triple on a given number (Shanghai), instantly wins!

If no “Shanghai” is scored then the player with the highest score at the end of the rounds, is the winner.

Dart Throwing – Strategies for Shanghai

• Accuracy is the key. You are aiming at one number only. Maximize doubles and triples. Check out our recent post, “Dart Throwing Mechanics” for skill tips.
• Group your darts to increase your chances of higher scores.
• If you’re behind, go for Shanghai! Swing for the fences! If you don’t try, you’ll never get the coveted Shanghai and its instant win.
• If you’re in the lead, continue to focus on consistent scores, avoid risky shots.
• Stay calm and work on your game plan. Don’t let your opponent’s scoring rattle you.

Final Thoughts

Dart games like Shanghai are fast paced and exciting. You’ll hone your throwing skills, strategic thinking, and improve your muscle memory the more you play. Like all dart games, the goal is to have fun.

What are some of your favorite dart games? Do you have a Shanghai moment to share? We encourage you to leave your thoughts in the comments section. Until then, head on over to edartboards.com and check out our latest collection of electronic dartboards and soft tip dart sets.

Faster play. Better game.