Just moved to Taipei, started a new job, or simply want to make new friends. It's a common spot to get stuck: not knowing where to go or how to start talking to someone. This post isn't about "is it weird to come alone" (that's covered here); it's the more practical question: once you're at AI DARTS, how do you actually meet people?
Why darts works for people who aren't great at small talk
The good thing about darts is that the rules themselves create interaction, so you don't have to force a conversation topic. Taking turns, checking the score, guessing whether the next throw lands, these small moments naturally get someone next to you talking, and that's a lot less pressure than having to open with something yourself.
A self-service darts bar makes it easier to approach people than a regular bar
At a regular bar you usually need staff to seat you first, which adds a layer of distance before you've even started. AI DARTS is self-service: drop a coin and start playing. You can walk right up to the next board and watch, and joining in feels natural, no staff introduction required.
How to actually meet people here
- Ask "is this board taken?": it checks the situation and doubles as a natural opener
- If you see someone playing solo, ask to join: darts games are often open to more players, two or three people playing together is completely normal
- You don't need to wait until you're comfortable to speak up: start with the rules or the score, it's more natural than jumping into personal questions
The leaderboard is a good conversation starter
AI DARTS has a member point system and leaderboard, shown on TV screens in the store, which makes for a ready-made topic. Asking "where did you place this month?" or "who's on top of the board right now?" lands a lot more naturally than "so, you come here alone?" Full rules are in this post. Joining is free, and you can sign up at pass.aidarts.club.
FAQ
I'm introverted, can I actually meet people here alone?
You don't need to be great at small talk. The scoring and turn-taking create moments of interaction on their own, so you're not forced to invent a topic.
How do I join people who are already playing?
Just ask "is this board taken?" or "mind if I join?" Darts games are usually open like that.
What else is there to talk about besides darts?
The leaderboard and member points are good topics, like asking where someone placed this month.
Do I need to join as a member to meet people?
No. The membership system is a bonus for tracking scores and checking the leaderboard, not a requirement for socializing. You can come play either way.
Once you're done playing, Hotdogray's hot dogs are a good way to keep the conversation going. To see how other people describe this "darts plus hot dogs" social mix, check out the Hotdogray site. Making friends doesn't require waiting until you feel ready: the rules of the game will create the opening for you.