How to play pong
Pong is the original video-game version of table tennis. You control one paddle, the computer controls the other, and a ball bounces between you. If the ball gets past your opponent's paddle you score a point; if it gets past yours, the computer scores. The first player to reach 7 points wins the match.
On a phone, drag your finger left and right to move your paddle at the bottom. On a computer, move the mouse or use the left and right arrow keys or A and D. Press P or the pause button to take a break.
Difficulty levels
Choose Easy, Normal or Hard before you play. On Easy the computer reacts slowly and makes mistakes, which is good for children and for learning the angles. Normal is a fair match. Hard reacts quickly and returns most shots, so you need well-placed angles to win. The game counts how many matches you have won at each level, saved in your browser.
Using angles
The ball leaves your paddle at an angle that depends on where it hits. Hitting with the edge of the paddle sends it away steeply, and the ball also speeds up a little after each return. Steep, fast shots are hard for the computer to reach, especially when it is already on the other side of the table.
Tips to beat the computer
Return to the centre after every hit. Try to make the computer move a long way: if it is far to the left, aim right. Do not chase the ball at the last moment; move early and let the ball come to you. On Hard, long rallies favour the computer, so take risks with edge hits once the ball is fast.
The first commercial pong arcade machine appeared in 1972 and helped start the video-game industry. This free version keeps the simple idea, adds smooth touch controls and works offline after the first visit.
FAQ
Is this pong game free?
Yes, it is free, with no sign-up and no download.
Can I play pong on mobile?
Yes. Drag your finger on the court to move your paddle. It works on Android phones and iPhones.
How many points win a match?
The first player to reach 7 points wins.
Which difficulty should I choose?
Start with Easy to learn the angles, then move to Normal. Hard is for players who can aim with the edge of the paddle.
Does the game work without internet?
Yes. After the first visit the page is stored by your browser and works offline.