There is nothing quite like a raucous night with friends huddled around a beer pong table. Ever since this drinking game was first invented it has provided millions of party goers many, many evenings of drunken fun. To maximize that fun, however, it is important to have the right tables in place to ensure that no one has to try to quickly create a playing surface on short notice.

There is no question that the simplicity of this game has contributed to its popularity. Unlike dice games, dart contests, and pool, there is little math involved and very little practice necessary to seriously compete with friends and family. The game only requires the right kind of balls, a quality surface on which to play, and beer for the cups on the playing surface.

It can be helpful, though, to ensure that any players at the party will be content with the tables offered for play. For most hosts, meeting this goal requires the purchase of a standard board that meets all the basic needs for sound play. When purchasing these tables, the following things should be considered.

Size matters

Size is an essential characteristic of the boards. There are even standard sizes that are required for tournament usage and league play. Often times, buyers simply choose to purchase these common sizes to ensure that they are able to remain consistent in their play. For professional tables, the regulation sizes are two feet by eight feet. For those who are open to other sizes, tables can range from six to nine feet long.

The playing field

The board surface can contain any type of design, including bright colors and specific markings. In all that glitter and dazzle, however, a number of key features should still be visible. These include the midway line that separates the two halves of play, and the lines that denote foul territory. Though not all boards contain these markings, they are still helpful for most serious players.

The vendor

The choice of vendor is essential when the buyer is trying to locate a high-quality product. While some retail stores may have some inexpensive tables available, these are often of a lesser quality than those sought by most serious players. Online vendors are typically the best option for those buyers who want to ensure that they receive the very best product for their money.

Customers who search through the available tables would do well to remember the critical featureless they need. Durability is essential, as they have to endure spilled beer, drunken stumbles, and a host of other abuses. In addition, it is wise to get portable units so that they are easier to move and store when they are not being used.

Still, nothing is more important than the notion that these tables should be fun for everyone involved. When buyers focus on the fun factor, they will have a much easier time finding a beer pong table that fits their unique style preferences while still providing the surface needed for endless hours of exciting play.