Pong

About Pong

The game that started it all. Bounce a ball back and forth with paddles in this iconic two-player arcade classic from 1972.

How to Play Pong

Control your paddle to deflect the ball past your opponent. Score a point each time the ball passes your opponent's paddle. The ball speeds up with each hit. First to 7 points wins.

History of Pong

Pong is widely considered the game that launched the commercial video game industry. Released by Atari in 1972, it was designed by Allan Alcorn as a training exercise and became the first commercially successful arcade video game, with machines installed in bars and arcades across America. The concept was simple — two paddles, one ball, score to win — yet it was hypnotic enough to start a cultural revolution. Atari sold over 8,000 arcade cabinets in its first year and the home console version in 1975 became the first mass-market home game. Play Pong free online today and experience the game that started it all — no download required.

Tips & Tricks

• 1.Hit the ball with the edge of your paddle to change its angle and keep your opponent guessing.
• 2.Do not follow the ball with constant movement — short, deliberate moves conserve position and improve reaction time.
• 3.Aim for the corners: a ball heading into the far corner of the opponent's side is the hardest to return.
• 4.When the ball speeds up, position your paddle in the center and make small corrections rather than chasing.
• 5.Watch your opponent's paddle position, not just the ball — anticipate where they cannot reach.