Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

"and when it’s time to switch servers (every multiple of 5 points). […] Once one player reaches the final score of 21 with 2 points clear, the system automatically ends the game"

It amazes me how long it takes for rule changes to propagate throughout the world.

Table-tennis has been using 11-point games for over a decade, with serve rotation after every two points (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_tennis#Rule_changes), but I rarely meet recreational players who are aware of that, and that includes people who played it first after those rule changes were made.




Why do basement and break room matches need to follow competitive rules designed for television?


We are definitely aware, but given our skill level games to 11 would end far too quickly. That's why we opted for the old 21 system. Maybe in a year when we can actually maintain good rallies we will upgrade to 11 :)


It's not a matter of skill, with games to 11 you can play 2 out of 3, which often turns out to be longer than games of 21. Personally I think games to 11 make it more exciting; it's really fun being down a game and then gaining hope when you win the next :)


You can play 2 out of 3 just fine with games to 21.


Maybe that is because those rules are to make the game more fun to watch not to make it funner to play.


Ping-pong is a game for participants, not for TV.




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: