Durability
The Hathaway Playoff Soccer Table is built for children. If adults use this table, it won’t last long. Because it’s an inexpensive table, the parts are cheaper and not as durable. The men are ABS constructed, which gives them a little more strength, but are still made out of plastic and much more susceptible to breaking than metal.
The 1/4″ thick cabinet doesn’t provide much durability. It’s lightweight and susceptible to movement during play, which can lead to the table breaking down over time. Tubular steel rods are stronger and likely durable enough for kids, but a few customers did say that the rods bend easy.
The thin playfield could warp over time because it lacks sturdiness. A customer said that the grips come off occasionally.
To put it simply: something could break or get damaged, but it will be more durable if it’s not abused.
Gameplay
For children or anyone playing casually, the Hathaway Playoff is sufficient. It’s not a full-sized table, nor does it have any features for experienced players. It’s a very simple, bare bones kind of a table, which is what ones in this price range are. It has the essential parts of a foosball table, but not much else.
The speed of play is slower, which is for the best because it’s geared towards children. Being a lightweight table, it’s going to move more often during play. This can change the direction of the ball and give one side an advantage over the other in some situations.
The other concern is how level the playfield is. Cheaper tables usually don’t have even surfaces. This creates deadspots – areas where the ball comes to a standstill during play.
It’s a smaller table, so you’re not going to have as much space to shoot and move the ball around.
Aesthetics
The Hathaway Playoff is a kid’s table, and it shows. The graphics give it an amateur look. Mid-to-high level tables typically have a wood finish. The humanoid men appear to be made well. The black and green colors work well together.
Who's It For?
It's for children, casual play, and anyone who wants to spend less than $200 on a table. Another table to check out in this price range is the Playcraft Sport.
