Bring the fast paced excitement of an air hockey table into your home

By Carolyn Chambers When I am home on weekends and not working, I like having a little fun in my basement rec room. Most of us work all day long and when we get home, having something fun and exciting to do is really welcoming. If you want a change from video games and tv, why not consider an air hockey table. This addictive, fast-paced game brings out the competitive side in just about everyone who plays it. Air Hockey is one of the most timeless arcade games that many of us remember from our youth. You also don’t need to be the next Sidney Crosby to master the game. In fact, no ice skating is required at all.

This games table is the perfect addition to any household. Kids can play it and have friends over. It will keep them occupied for hours on end. They can set up tournaments that run everyday after school or even all weekend long. You can get an air hockey table designed in different colors so it matches the already existent décor you’ve got in your home or rec room. If you have a classy house filled with lots of expensive art, a big baby blue and red air hockey table is going to stand out. However, if you have one with a nice wood finish and black trim it’ll look perfect in your home but still has the function of being a fun game.

Table Top Air Hockey Pool Table

A typical air hockey game table consists of a large smooth playing surface, a surrounding rail to prevent the puck and mallets from leaving the table, and slots in the rail at either end of the table that serve as goals. Additionally, tables will typically have some sort of machinery that produces a cushion of air on the playing surface, with the purpose of reducing friction and increasing play speed. In some tables, the machinery is replaced in favor of a slick table surface, usually plastic, in the interest of saving money in both manufacturing and maintenance costs therefore costing less. Note that these tables are technically not air hockey tables since no air is involved, however, they are still generally understood to be as such due to the basic similarity of gameplay.

A mallet (sometimes called a goalie, striker or paddle) consists of a simple handle attached to a flat surface that will usually lie flush with the surface of the table. Four-player tables also exist, but they are not yet sanctioned for competitive play. If the puck leaves the table, a foul is called on the player that caused the puck to go out of play due to offensive motion and the opposing player gets possession of the puck.

Adults love to play this game as well. If you’re a bachelor, this would be perfect for you when your buddies come over for either a quiet, relaxing evening or preparing for a big night out on the town. An air hockey table is smaller than a billiards table which saves more room but they are just as energetic, if not more. Don’t be surprised if your guests are lining up to play once they see how much fun it really is.

Air Hockey Table Costs

When it comes to price, the nicer the table the more expensive it will be. Prices can range anywhere from $99 for a basic table top model or folding air hockey game to over $5000 for a professional table used in tournaments. It depends mainly on what kind of style you want and how many extras you want your table. Some have 3 in 1 games which will of course cost more money. If you’ve got kids in the home, the tables with several games included are a good buy as they’ll keep the children’s interest for years.

Strategy for Players of the game

The most common strategy in air hockey is to establish a repetitive pattern and wait for the opponent to pull him or herself out of position. Air hockey is one of the world's fastest paced table games, it offers lasting replay value, and it presents an exciting and fun way to get some exercise at the same time.

Setting them up isn’t complicated at all. Some table games just fold out while others need a lot of assembly. You’ll definitely need a helper though to help steady the pieces as you put them together. Be sure you place the table on a level spot in the home with a solid floor surface.

You will never again get bored if you have one of these in your house. Everyone can play and it helps to pass the time on a rainy day and through the chilly months of winter. An air hockey table is suitable for any household. Just make sure you always have someone to challenge you and your skills at this game.

Here are some helpful tips on researching and buying an Air Hockey Table for your Home

Look for tables that can be converted to other games such as Pinball or Pool. Make sure the item is easily returnable if you want to return it for a refund. Look for a folding table that makes it easy for storing when not in use. Check the warranty and talk to store employees who know which products are the best. Look for things like an on/off switch, good quality playing surface, well made pucks and strikers and a manual or electronic scoring system. Also make sure the table is sturdy and will sit solid on your rec room floor with leg levelers ensuring you have an even playing surface

Final Note: Check reviews online before shopping in stores etc. at websites such as Consumer Reports, Amazon and Epinions.

.