The game of air hockey is a fairly simple one to learn with only a few rules. Taking the time to familiarize yourself and opponents with the rules of air hockey will eliminate unnecessary misunderstandings and make the game more enjoyable.
The Basics
An air hockey table features two goals on opposing sides of the air hockey table. The object of air hockey is to score points by successfully getting the air hockey puck into your opponent's goal while also preventing your opponent from scoring points.
All air hockey tables have a centerline that essentially divides the table into two, your side and your opponent's side. Pay attention to which side of the centerline the air hockey puck falls on because it is illegal to hit the puck when it isn't on your side of the air hockey table. However, if the puck falls directly on the centerline it's fair game.
The Magic Number Is Seven
Seven is an important number in air hockey. Not only do you have seven seconds to hit the puck when it's on your side of the air hockey table, but the first player to score seven points wins the air hockey game.
Some Other Miscellaneous Rules
Here are few other rules to keep in mind when playing air hockey:
- It's considered a foul to "top", which is stopping or touching the air hockey puck with the bottom of your mallet or pusher.
- If you stop or touch the air hockey puck with your hand or any part of your body your opponent is awarded a free shot.
The Most Important Rule: Have Fun!
Don't forget air hockey is a game, which means it should be fun. Even if you play air hockey competitively, make sure that you are enjoying yourself otherwise there's no sense in playing.
