Project Overview

The Multiplayer Air Hockey Game is a fast-paced, real-time web-based game that simulates the classic arcade air hockey experience. Two players compete against each other on a virtual air hockey table, using paddles to hit the puck and score goals. The project emphasizes real-time physics, smooth gameplay, and multiplayer synchronization, making it ideal as a final-year Computer Science project.

Key Features

1. Real-Time Gameplay

   • Two players control paddles on opposite sides of the table.

   • Puck moves according to physics rules (speed, friction, rebounds).

   • Real-time collision detection ensures smooth puck-paddle and puck-wall interactions.

2. Multiplayer Support

   • Players can join public or private game rooms.

   • Game state (puck and paddle positions, scores) is synchronized using WebSockets (Socket.io).

   • Spectator mode available for others to watch live matches.

3. Scoring System

   • Each goal increases the score of the opposing player.

   • Match ends when a player reaches a set score (e.g., 7 or 10 points).

   • Live scoreboard updates instantly for both players.

4. Player Controls

   • Paddles move with keyboard arrows or mouse drag/touch input (mobile-friendly).

   • Smooth animations for paddle movements.

5. Physics Engine

   • Puck bounces realistically off walls and paddles.

   • Adjustable friction to slow the puck over time.

   • Random initial puck velocity at the start of each round.

6. User Accounts & Leaderboard

   • Players can sign up and track their match history.

   • Leaderboards show top-ranked players.

   • Win/loss record saved in profiles.

7. UI & Animations

   • Interactive air hockey table design with glowing effects.

   • Score panel and timer displayed.

   • Sound effects for puck hits, goals, and match wins.

Technology Stack

• Frontend: HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript (Canvas API for rendering, or Phaser.js for game physics).

• Backend: Node.js with Socket.io for real-time communication (or Java/PHP for turn-based but Node.js is better for real-time).

• Database: MySQL / MongoDB for user accounts, match records, and leaderboards.

How It Works

1. Login & Match Setup

   • Players log in and either create or join a room.

   • System pairs two players for a match.

2. Game Start

   • Puck spawns at the center with random direction.

   • Players control paddles to block and hit the puck.

3. Gameplay Loop

   • Real-time synchronization ensures both players see the same puck and paddle movements.

   • Collision detection updates puck trajectory.

   • Timer and score display live.

4. Winning Condition

   • Game ends when one player reaches the winning score.

   • Winner announced with animation and sound effects.

5. Post-Game

   • Match results saved in the database.

   • Players can request a rematch or exit to lobby.

Optional Enhancements

• AI Opponent: Single-player mode against computer-controlled paddle.

• Power-Ups: Random speed boosts, paddle size changes, or puck duplication.

• Customizable Tables: Players can choose skins/themes for the air hockey table.

• Tournament Mode: Organize multiple matches with brackets and champions.

• Mobile Optimization: Touchscreen-based paddle control for smooth mobile play.