The 7-6 is a space specializing in air hockey with several air hockey tables in a small space that used to house a tailor's shop (Some of the previous business's lettering is still on the door). It is not an arcade, though, with rent being paid by sponsors and a spartan setup that is not much more than the tables, some chairs, and banners on the otherwise relatively bare walls. It opens every Friday night for free play, though there is a small cash buy-in if you want to play in the tournament they hold. This, however, is definitely not your childhood's skating rink air hockey. While everyone is welcome to join, a good number of people that show up are serious players with United States Air Hockey Association rankings who tape up their hands and bring their own personalized mallets just like athletes in any other sport. The tournament games are livestreamed, and there is a separate closed room where one of the members commentates for the livestream.
Despite the intensity, everyone is very nice, especially Pete, the guy who seems to be the point person for the operation. When not playing himself, he explained some of the finer points of the game, answered questions I had about the players and history, and showed me the app they use to track rankings as well as demonstrate different playing tactics and maneuvers. I had no idea there was this much organization or seriousness regarding air hockey, and it was really interesting to take in. While I just watched on this occasion, I might make a trip back on a future Friday to take part myself. read more