What Is Rod Hockey Game?
A table hockey game, alternatively referred to as rod hockey, stick hockey, bubble hockey, or board hockey, is a two-player game derived from ice hockey. The game is played on a miniature hockey rink; players score goals by launching a small puck into the opposing "net" using cutout figures representing hockey players.
Author:Paolo ReynaReviewer:Iram MartinsFeb 22, 2022188.7K Shares2.6M Views
A table hockey game, alternatively referred to as rod hockey game, stick hockey, bubble hockey, or board hockey, is a two-player game derived from ice hockey. The game is played on a miniature hockey rink; players score goals by launching a small puck into the opposing "net" using cutout figures representing hockey players. The figures are manipulated by rods beneath the "ice": when the player pushes or pulls on the rod, each one slides forward and back along its own narrow slot, or rotates (around a vertical axis) to shoot or stickhandle the puck when the player spins the rod. While table hockey games are conceptually similar to air hockey (commonly referred to as "glide hockey"), they are more of a simulation of the sport of ice hockey, whereas air hockey is more abstract.
The Original Table Hockey
Table hockey was invented in 1932 in Toronto by Canadian Donald H. Munro Sr. Don, like many other Canadians during the depression, was strapped for cash for Christmas presents. He was married and had three small children. That year, the entire family chipped in to create the world's first table hockey game. This mechanical game was constructed entirely out of scrap wood and metal, including coat hanger wire, butcher's twine, clock springs, and coal bin lumber. Unlike modern games, this one resembled an early pinball machine, with one significant exception: it was a two-player game. The playing surface was crowned in the center and slanted downward toward the ends. The goalie was controlled by levers, while the players were controlled by flippers. According to the story, a traveling salesman noticed the game and encouraged Don to bring it down to the neighborhood Eaton's department store. Don accomplished precisely that. The first game was purchased on consignment. By the time Mr. Munro returned home, the game had been sold and additional orders had been placed.
Manufacturers
There are numerous variations of the game. The game's original variant was manufactured in Burlington, Ontario, by the now-defunct Munro Games of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In Sweden, Stiga Games are used in table hockey, which is governed by the International Table Hockey Federation.
Since the 1920s, the game has also been played in North America on a variety of commercial boards. Since the 1980s, Rick Benej of Greenwich, New York, has been building table hockey games. Over the years, his model has undergone three distinct design iterations and refinements. For many years, the most popular board was manufactured by the now-defunct Coleco company, and the majority of boards sold in North America (such as those manufactured by The Carrom Company and Irwin Toys) are variants of this model. However, the Stiga board has begun to penetrate the North American market, despite the continued introduction of new boards.
Arcade Version
The arcade version is referred to as "dome hockey" or "bubble hockey" due to the large plastic dome that covers the playing surface, preventing the puck from becoming lost or stolen. Chexx (USA vs. Soviet Union) and its successor, Super Chexx, are the most popular of these 'bubble hockey' tables (Canada vs. USA). Super Chexx developed this game in the early 1980s. Later on, other businesses began producing similar items.
Game Variations
Another table hockey game, Do-To-Ho, is quite distinct from the others mentioned here. The play figures are not attached to bars and are free to move throughout the playing field. Their bases, like the puck's, contain a ball bearing, which allows them to glide across the board like ice skate runners. As in billiards, moving a play figure is accomplished by striking it with a short, unique knock with a small stick. The play courses alternate between "attack courses," in which a play figure may play the puck, and "position courses," in which a play figure may only change position without touching the puck. If the aggressor misses the puck or collides with an opposing play figure, possession of the puck changes. Do-To-Ho was created in Germany and first appeared in 1994.
The Bottom Line
Nothing beats a good game of hockey, there is no doubt about that. However, if you lack the time—or access—to a real hockey rink, the next best thing to enjoying your favorite puck game is a rod hockey tabletop game.
If you're ready to make the investment in a high-quality rod hockey table, you're probably wondering which model is the best fit for your needs. To help you make an informed choice, we've compiled a list of the best options here.
Paolo Reyna
Author
Paolo Reyna is a writer and storyteller with a wide range of interests. He graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies.
Paolo enjoys writing about celebrity culture, gaming, visual arts, and events. He has a keen eye for trends in popular culture and an enthusiasm for exploring new ideas. Paolo's writing aims to inform and entertain while providing fresh perspectives on the topics that interest him most.
In his free time, he loves to travel, watch films, read books, and socialize with friends.
Iram Martins
Reviewer
Iram Martins is a seasoned travel writer and explorer with over a decade of experience in uncovering the world's hidden gems. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management from the University of Lisbon, Iram's credentials highlight his authority in the realm of travel.
As an author of numerous travel guides and articles for top travel publications, his writing is celebrated for its vivid descriptions and practical insights.
Iram’s passion for cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path adventures shines through in his work, captivating readers and inspiring wanderlust.
Outside of his writing pursuits, Iram enjoys learning new languages, reviewing films and TV shows, writing about celebrity lifestyles, and attending cultural festivals.
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