Ice-Games FAQ: Answers for Small Venue Owners on Pool Tables, Card Games, and More

If you're running a small bar, pub, or game lounge, you've probably got a ton of questions about buying pool tables, ping pong tables, arcade machines, and card games. I've been managing procurement for entertainment venues for years, and I've made enough mistakes to know what actually matters. Here's the honest breakdown—no fluff, just what I wish someone had told me.

1. I'm a small business owner looking to buy a pool table and some arcade machines. Does ice-games work with small orders?

Short answer: yes—and that's one reason I like them. I've dealt with vendors who basically roll their eyes when you're ordering under $5,000. But ice-games doesn't treat small orders like a hassle. When I was starting out, the vendors who took my $300 orders seriously are the ones I still call for $30,000 orders. That said, don't expect the same per‑unit pricing as a bulk buyer. The key is to ask for a bundled price if you're getting multiple items (like a pool table + a couple arcade machines). It's tempting to think you can just compare unit prices—but identical specs from different vendors can lead to wildly different outcomes in shipping, setup, and warranty support.

2. You mentioned pool table movers—do you offer that service, and what does it cost?

I still kick myself for not asking about delivery and setup fees on my first pool table purchase. Some vendors quote a low price, then hit you with $400+ for moving and leveling. Ice-games offers their own moving service for commercial orders, and they're transparent about it: they'll tell you upfront the cost based on your location and the table size. From my experience, their pricing is usually in line with local movers, but the big advantage is they know how to disassemble and reassemble without damaging the slate. One tip: if the table needs to go up stairs or through tight doors, ask about that specifically. They've got a checklist (like, do they have a dolly with rubber wheels?) that saves headaches later.

3. I run a pub and want to add ice breaker card games for adults. Do you have options that work for a bar setting?

Absolutely. Ice-games carries a bunch of board and card games—including ice breaker style ones that are great for getting people talking over a drink. Think things like "Who's Most Likely" or "Would You Rather" decks. The ones I'd recommend for a bar are durable (plastic cards, not paper) and compact enough to store behind the counter. The most frustrating part of stocking games in a bar? They get lost or damaged fast. After the third time I had to replace a soggy deck, I started buying only laminated cards. Ice-games offers a few commercial‑grade card games that survive spills better. Just ask their sales team for the "bar‑proof" line—they'll know what you mean.

4. My customers often ask me how to improve table tennis skills. Can you provide any guides or tips that I can share?

Smart question. I've seen venues where customers get frustrated and stop playing because they don't know basic drills. Ice-games actually includes a short skill guide with their commercial ping pong tables (think: grip basics, serving drills, footwork exercises). I've used it myself for my own customers. If you want more, I'd suggest printing a simple handout: "5 Easy Drills for Better Ping Pong"—ice-games can even send you a PDF. Take this with a grain of salt—I'm not a coach—but from what I've seen, the biggest improvement comes from teaching the correct grip. It's a small thing that makes a huge difference, and it keeps people coming back to play.

5. What's the real total cost of a commercial ping pong table? I've been burned by hidden fees before.

You're right to ask. It's tempting to think the price tag covers everything—but it rarely does. From my procurement tracking over the past 6 years (I've documented every invoice for our venues), here's what you should add up:

• Unit price – obviously, but get it in writing.
• Shipping – ask if it's curbside or inside delivery. Inside delivery typically adds $50–150.
• Assembly – ping pong tables usually come partially assembled, but a pro setup costs extra. Ice-games charges a flat $95 for their commercial tables (includes leveling).
• Accessories – net, paddles, balls. Don't assume they're included; check the SKU.
• Warranty – standard is 1 year parts, but extended warranties cost around 10% of the table price. I've found them worth it for high‑traffic venues.

In my experience, the total out‑of‑pocket for a solid commercial table from ice-games ends up around $1,200–1,800 installed. That's competitive for the durability. One more thing: ask about their return policy. Most vendors won't take back assembled tables, but ice-games offers a 14‑day satisfaction guarantee (as of January 2025, at least). That's rare in the industry.

Bottom line: I've worked with vendors who make you feel like a nuisance for asking questions. Ice-games isn't one of them. Small orders, hidden fees, skill guides—they cover the bases that matter to a cost‑conscious venue owner. If you're on the fence, call them directly and ask to speak to a sales rep who handles small accounts. They'll take you seriously. I know, because I started with a single pool table, and now we're on our fourth reorder.