5 Pong Variations Every Dartmouth Grad Knows

At Dartmouth College, pong isn't just a game—it's a tradition with countless variations that have evolved over decades. Here are five classic pong variations that every Dartmouth graduate should be familiar with.

1. Tree

The quintessential Dartmouth pong variation, Tree is played with cups arranged in a triangle formation (similar to the "rack" in pool). Each team typically starts with 10-15 cups, arranged in rows that form a triangle pointing away from the players.

Key Rules:

Players must hit the ball onto the table before it can go into a cup

Teams alternate turns throwing

When a cup is hit, the defending team drinks and removes the cup

The game continues until one team has no cups remaining

2. Shrub

Shrub is essentially a smaller version of Tree, often played as a follow-up game or when time is limited. The setup is similar, but with fewer cups (typically 6-10).

Key Rules:

Similar to Tree, but with a smaller cup formation

Often played at a faster pace

Some houses allow direct shots (no bounce required) in Shrub

3. Line

As the name suggests, Line pong features cups arranged in a straight line across the width of the table. Each team typically has 6-10 cups arranged in a single row.

Key Rules:

Cups are arranged in a straight line perpendicular to the length of the table

Some variations require the ball to hit the table before entering a cup

Others allow direct shots

The game tends to be faster than Tree

4. Beirut

While technically not a traditional Dartmouth variation, Beirut has found its way into the Dartmouth pong scene. This variation more closely resembles what other colleges call "beer pong."

Key Rules:

Direct shots into cups (no table bounce required)

Cups arranged in a triangle formation

Typically played with 6 or 10 cups per side

Often considered faster and less technical than traditional Dartmouth pong

5. Ship

Ship is one of the more complex variations, involving four players (two teams of two) and multiple sets of cups.

Key Rules:

Each team has their own set of cups arranged in a ship-like formation

Players stand at the corners of the table

Teams can hit each other's cups

The game involves strategy in deciding which opponent's cups to target

Bringing the Tradition Home

With the Dartmouth Pong Pack, you can recreate these classic variations at home with friends and family. The pack includes official Dartmouth green cups and regulation balls, allowing you to share this unique tradition with fellow alumni or introduce it to friends who didn't attend Dartmouth.

Whether you're a pong veteran or just learning the game, these variations offer different experiences and challenges. Which one is your favorite?