PLAY
FORMAT
Forget everything you know about "serious" table tennis. At Play Ping London, games are designed for maximum fun, minimum stress. Whether you're a complete beginner or a paddle-wielding veteran, our formats ensure everyone has a great time. Learn more about our inclusive philosophy.
CASUAL
SESSIONS
The bread and butter of SMASH SOCIAL. Walk in anytime, grab a paddle, and start playing. No scheduling, no commitments, no pressure.
HOW IT WORKS
Tables operate on a simple rotation system. Games are played to 11 points (win by 2). After each game, the winner stays and a new challenger steps up. If you lose, you rotate to the back of the queue—which gives you a perfect excuse to catch your breath, chat with others waiting, and plan your revenge.
FOR GROUPS
Coming with friends? You can claim a table for yourselves and set your own rules. Round-robin tournaments, doubles matches, king-of-the-table—whatever keeps the energy flowing.
FLYING SOLO?
No problem. Our rotation system naturally mixes people together. You'll meet fellow players, make new connections, and probably find a regular opponent or two. Many friendships have started at our tables. Questions? Get in touch.
THE ROTATION
SYSTEM
Our rotation system is the secret sauce that makes SMASH SOCIAL work. It keeps games flowing, ensures fair play, and naturally creates opportunities for everyone to interact.
JOIN THE QUEUE
Walk up to any table and add your name to the challenger list. Watch the current game, size up your future opponent, get hyped.
PLAY YOUR GAME
When it's your turn, step up and play. First to 11, win by 2. No best-of-three, no endless sets—just quick, decisive matches.
ROTATE OUT
Lose? Head to the back of the line. Win? You stay and face the next challenger. The champion's streak continues until dethroned.
SOCIALIZE
Waiting isn't wasted time. Chat with others in the queue, grab a refreshment, watch the action. Half the fun happens off the table.
WHY IT WORKS
Short games mean you're never stuck watching for long. The constant rotation ensures you play multiple opponents throughout your visit. And because everyone cycles through together, you naturally meet the whole group—not just whoever you came with.
THE SOCIAL MAGIC
Think about it: in most social settings, you end up talking to the same 2-3 people all night. Our rotation breaks that pattern. By the end of an evening, you've had brief, fun interactions with a dozen different people. That's how communities form.
MINI
TOURNAMENTS
Want more structure? Our mini-tournaments add a competitive edge while keeping the vibe light and social.
ROUND ROBIN
Everyone plays everyone. Points are tallied across all games. Perfect for groups of 4-8 players who want to crown a champion.
KNOCKOUT BRACKET
Single elimination drama. Win and advance, lose and cheer from the sidelines. Quick, exciting, and always produces memorable moments.
DOUBLES CHAOS
Pair up (randomly or with intent) and compete as teams. Communication, coordination, and lots of laughing at each other's mistakes.
KING OF THE TABLE
One player defends the table against all challengers. How long can you hold the throne? Streaks become legendary.
GAME FORMATS
SINGLES
1 vs 1The classic format. Just you, your opponent, and the table between you. Pure concentration, quick reflexes, no one to blame but yourself.
- Full control of the game
- More physical movement
- Intense one-on-one focus
- Build personal rivalries
DOUBLES
2 vs 2Team up with a partner and take on another duo. Requires coordination, communication, and a willingness to high-five constantly.
- Shared responsibility
- Team dynamics and chemistry
- More social interaction
- Strategic partner rotation
ROUND THE TABLE
4+ playersA party favorite. Players circle the table, each taking one shot before rotating. Miss the ball? You're out. Last one standing wins.
- Accommodates large groups
- Fast-paced elimination
- Chaotic and hilarious
- No skill required
HANDICAP PLAY
Mixed skillLevel the playing field between experienced and novice players. The better player starts with negative points or plays with their non-dominant hand.
- Inclusive for all levels
- Keeps games competitive
- Encourages coaching
- Fun role reversal
FIRST TIME?
NO WORRIES.
Here's everything you need to know to walk in confident and start having fun immediately.
GRIP MATTERS LESS THAN YOU THINK
There are "correct" ways to hold a paddle. Ignore them for now. Hold it however feels natural. You can refine technique later if you get hooked.
AIM FOR THE TABLE
Seriously. Your only job at first is to get the ball back over the net and onto the table. Don't worry about spin, speed, or placement. Just rally.
WATCH THE BALL, NOT YOUR OPPONENT
Track the ball from their paddle to yours. It sounds obvious but most beginners watch the person instead. Eyes on the ball.
MOVE YOUR FEET
Don't plant yourself in one spot. Small adjustments in positioning make returns infinitely easier. Stay light on your feet.
LAUGH AT YOUR MISTAKES
You're going to whiff. You're going to send balls flying. Everyone does. The people who have the most fun are the ones who laugh it off.
ASK FOR HELP
Our staff loves helping newcomers. Other players are usually happy to offer tips too. Don't be shy—everyone started somewhere.
READY TO
RALLY?
Now you know how it works. There's only one thing left to do: come play.