The number calls of Sho, from pa ra to jang
3 min read
Every dice total in Sho has its own call. Learn all eleven, how likely each one is, and why pa ra (double one) is special.
In Sho you never just say "seven". Each total of the two dice has a name, and players call it out as the cup hits the pad. Learning the calls is the first step to playing like a local.
| Total | Call | Chance in one throw |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | pa ra | 1 in 36 |
| 3 | sug | 2 in 36 |
| 4 | tshig | 3 in 36 |
| 5 | kha | 4 in 36 |
| 6 | drug | 5 in 36 |
| 7 | ri | 6 in 36 (the most common) |
| 8 | sha | 5 in 36 |
| 9 | gu | 4 in 36 |
| 10 | chu | 3 in 36 |
| 11 | dog | 2 in 36 |
| 12 | jang | 1 in 36 |
Why pa ra is special
A double one, pa ra, is the rarest throw together with jang, and it comes with a choice: enter two coins on shell 2, or keep the 2 and throw again. If you throw again, you can use the 2, the new total, or both together. Many players save pa ra to set up a big stack or a surprise kill.
Using the odds
Because 6, 7 and 8 come up most often, a rival's stack six to eight shells ahead of yours is in real danger, and your own coins six to eight shells behind a bigger enemy stack are at risk. Good players keep this in mind with every move: see strategy tips for beginners.
Try it now against the computer, or find real players online.