Air hockey as an indoor sport has received stiff competition from other games in the past few years. But still it has been able to sustain itself and maintain its position in the heart of the players. The sense of competition and satisfaction that one feels after winning a game of air hockey is unparalleled. Air hockey does not involve use of much equipment and is simple to understand and play without involving much of a skill. It requires more of hand eye coordination. It consists of air hockey pucks, air hockey mallets and the table on which the game is played. Since the game is played on the top a table, it is also known as table top air hockey. The game is played between two players standing on the two ends of the table and whose aim is to score goals by putting the pucks into the opponent’s goal. The player with maximum goals after a specified time or the player reaching a particular number of goals fastest is the winner.

Table Top Air Hockey Features

The air hockey table has raised sides so that the puck does not fall off from the table while the game is in progress. The goals that are provided at the two ends are in the form of pockets in which the puck can easily enter and then can be easily removed. This ensures that there is not much delay while the game is going on. The scoreboard can be positioned over the table where it is easy for both the opponents to read the score or the score can be maintained separately but it should be done in such a manner that there are no disputes. Air flowing on the table allows the puck to easily glide on the table by reducing the friction between the puck and top of the table surface. The table might be powered using an electric source or by using a battery. This power helps in providing with the air stream and electricity for score or lights that are installed on the table.

Air hockey tables are available in a number of shapes, colours, size and materials from which a customer can choose. While selecting a particular colour would only affect look of the table and not much to the playing of the game, other factors need to be well decided upon before going for the purchase. So, if you are looking for a table on which you can play anywhere and which does not require much space it is suggested to go for a small sized table of around 3 feet. Air hockey tables are available up to 8 feet and this is decided based upon the space of the room where the tale is to be placed. Material of the table not only decides the aesthetic value but also ensures how long the table will be able to serve.

Tips and Warnings

• Food and drinks should be kept as far as possible from the air hockey table top and it should be cleaned using a cloth frequently. Spills can cause problems and be detrimental to effect of the playing surface which will have implications on the game.

• Compare products and features before you buy to ensure that you get the best deal. The cost of tables vary greatly depending on build quality and optional extras.