How much do you know about air hockey? While air hockey tables seem to be popping everywhere from homes to arcades, I bet you'll be surprised by what you don't know about the game.
For example, did you know that once you score a goal, your opponent only has ten seconds to get the puck back into play on the air hockey table? If he or she delays, then a foul is charged (unless a timeout has been called...more on that later).
Another interesting rule in the game is that you have 7 seconds to take a shot with your mallet (also known as the paddle or pusher) once the puck has crossed the center line. If you fail to do so, FOUL!
While we're discussing seconds in a game of air hockey, players may each take one ten-second timeout during each game. Failure to abide by this time restriction results in a...FOUL! And, while we're on the topic of timeouts, you may not call your timeout unless you are in possession of the puck. While not specifically mentioned, you could possibly penalize each other with a FOUL if you try to call timeout without the puck.
Strict rules are in effect for the touching of the puck. No part of your body, be it hand, arm, or hip may touch the puck while it is in play. (This is called "palming".) In addition, your clothing may not touch the puck, either. Be careful...it could be a FOUL!
While playing a game of air hockey, it is important to remember this no touching rule; it is not permissible to stop the puck even with your mallet, unless you are trying to keep it from hitting you in the face when it becomes airborne. (And it will, air hockey pucks have a tendency to really travel!)
Stopping the puck with your mallet is referred to as "topping", and is not allowed. Doing so will, you guessed it; result in a F-O-U-L. (Curiously, no reference is made as to how many fouls one can accumulate during a game...)
There is a time when "topping" isn't really considered "topping", and that is when a puck has flown up off the table or if you are trying to send it toward your opponent's goal. There is a fine line to be drawn here, but draw it we shall.
Of course, if you aren't interested in playing a "regulation" game, and just want to hang out with your buddies and a six pack or two, then you may wish to institute "house rules". For example, you may wish to rotate players in whenever a goal is scored - a form of Round Robin. Failing to block a goal might require a player (or the spectators) to swig a beer. It's your house, so it's your rules!
No matter whose rules you choose to play by, enjoying a good game of air hockey is fun for everyone. If you and your friends are serious players, then the official rules are for you. But, if you just want to kick back and relax, make up your own. There aren't any air hockey police out there waiting to call FOUL!
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