Here at Man Cave Kings playing arcade sports games is a passion of ours and we love it even more when you can buy arcade style games for the games room. One of our all time favourites is the Indoor basketball arcade game. There’s always a ‘who can shoot the most hoops’ competition if I am out with friends and family and we see one of these bad boys.
Best Indoor Basketball Arcade Game
Now you don’t need to wait until you’re at the arcade, you can buy an electronic basketball arcade game to shoot hoops indoors at home. There are several different manufacturers, models, sizes and styles, including single basket models, dual or double indoor basketball games and non powered and electrical options to choose from. They can also differ quite a bit in build quality and materials used. Below are some our top picks and recommendations to help you the best indoor basketball arcade game for your requirements.
Best Dual / Double Indoor Basketball Arcade Game
1 – Pop-A-Shot Home Dual Shot Basketball Arcade Game Review
- Great construction – powder-coated steel tubes.
- Dual basket for multi-player games.
- 6 Superb sound effects options.
- 10 skill challenges and head-to-head games.
- 7 basketballs for quick game play.
- Two power supply options.
- AC adapter included.
- Fold-away for space-saving when not in use.
- Adjustable height settings for Adults and Kids, and ceiling height.
- Size: 82/88/94 inches (H) x 88 inches (D) x 46 inches (W).
- Fold-away size: 82/88/94 (H) x 37 (D) x 46 inches (W).
- Easier to assemble with 2 people (there’s a nice tutorial on YouTube)
- At the top end price wise, but you get a lot of quality fun for your money.
When it comes to indoor arcade basketball games, Pop-A-Shot is without a doubt the pioneer of the industry, and their Home Dual Shot Basketball Arcade Game certainly lives up to the reputation. First off, the build – the Dual Shot is built around a rugged steel frame 1 1/2 inches in diameter and coated in powder to prevent scratches, chipping and rusting. Speaking of thick, the backboard is extra-large at 46 inches x 20 inches and is 1/2 an inch thick. This back board can take a real basketball pounding even from the most enthusiastic throwers!
It comes with two hoops which is great when you want to have competitions with your buddies or there are single player options. And when you are playing against a buddy, you won’t be hanging about waiting for a ball to throw. The Pop-A-Shot comes with 7 balls and the thick, heavy-duty nylon ramp will quickly return them as soon as you shoot the hoop. The quality of construction is where the Pop-A-Shot excels compared to the lower priced suppliers.
The overall dimensions vary depending on the height setting, which is another big plus. You can choose between 82, 88 and 94 inches, allowing you maximum customization for different game rooms (lowest you can go is 6.8′), as well as players. On that note, the Dual Shot is highly mobile thanks to the set of wheels, and it also lets you choose the choice of power supply (AC adapters or battery, whichever suits your needs). This is a great option if you don’t have a power supply where you want to play.
The Pop-A-Shot has a fold-away option, so when it’s not in use and you need a little space, you can quickly fold it against a wall.
The game allows you to pick from ten different games, which is at least two games more than you get with most other manufacturers. Add half-dozen audio options (including crowd effects, ball sounds, as well as an announcer and three music choices), plus a sizable LED scoreboard, and you get a perfect thing to keep the kids (and Adults!) occupied for hours.
2 – Lifetime Double Shot Arcade Basketball System Review
- Extremely solid construction.
- Dual basket for multiple game players.
- Adjustable height for Adults & Kids
- 12 Game options.
- 6 basketballs for continuous play.
- Space Saving fold-away solution.
- Improved infra-red scoring sensors
- Size: 90 inches(H) x 90 inches (D) x 51 inches (W).
- Fold-away size: 90 (H) x 42 (D) x 51 inches (W).
- The headboard / basket can be lowered to reduce the height to 84 inches for lower ceilings.
- The front can be adjusted from 35 inches to 31.5 or 28 inches for smaller players.
- Digital scoreboard and countdown with volume control.
- You can assemble on your own, but it is much easier with two people.
- This game requires a decent ceiling height to enjoy the game, especially if you loop your shots. (It does have an adjustable height option).
- More expensive than some rivals, but also much more solidly built.
If you’re looking for a strong and sturdy indoor basketball game for all the family then the Lifetime Double Shot Arcade Game is a great choice. It comes with adjustable height options at the front and back so it can be adjusted to the perfect height for both kids and adults and although the lifetime is slightly more expensive that some of the other options available, there is a reason for it and that reason is ‘quality’.
Unlike some other models, the frame is made with 18 Gauge powdered coated steel so you know this will not bend, break or rust. The back board is made from medium density fibreboard and many purchasers have stated it can take a heavy beating when shooting hoops off the back board. The lifetime may not look as ‘snazzy’ as some other models but it certainly makes up for it everywhere else.
This is a dual basket model so you can have multi player game time. And of course, no authentic arcade game would be complete without an electronic scoring system that independently scores each hoop whilst providing great arcade sound effects. Like the arcade versions it also has a timer so you can compare your top scores with other players.
The new version comes with 12 different game modes, with single player games, double player games and multi-player games. Plus there are 3 different types of voice feedback, with the hardest level trash talking your shots!. You can also lower or higher the volume, perfect if you want to shoot a few hoops without anyone noticing. The front of the game has 3 height settings, so both adults and children can easily collect the basketballs for shooting.
The nylon ramp quickly feeds back the balls (you get 6 balls by the way) to the shooter allowing for a quick and exciting game whether you’re playing on your own or with friends and family.
When you first un-package and assemble the game you will need to set-aside a good 90 minutes plus for assembly and it would make life easier if there were two of you. The lifetime comes with all the tools you need for assembly, however some purchasers have found it quicker with their own tools and ratchet sets.
Short on space? The lifetime has you covered. It can be folded away and stored against a wall quickly and simply by releasing the integrated push pins. It can also be lowered for rooms with lower ceilings. The standard height is 90 inches but the backboard can be lowered to provide an overall height of 84 inches.
Fun Bucks Rating: The Lifetime Double Shot Arcade Game is an extremely sturdy and well-built indoor basketball arcade game that will supply both adults and kids with hours of fun time. It doesn’t have the arcade graphics like other models but what it lacks in graphics it gains in quality game play and the number of games you can play. This is definitely a must if you have the space in your games room.
3 – ESPN EZ Fold Indoor Basketball Game
- 2 Hoops for multi game playing.
- 4 basketballs
- Thick steel frame (inch-and-a-half), powder-coated.
- 8 Different game options.
- Robust frame.
- 90-day limited warranty.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Takes some effort to put together.
- Stores efficiently (20″ x 48″ x 80.5″ folded, 81″ x 48″ x 80.5″ when assembled).
- Some purchasers did not receive enough screws and bolts.
The ESPN EZ Fold Indoor Basketball Game is pretty much what it reads on the tin – a foldable arcade basketball game, suitable for homes, pubs and arcades alike. That said, the fact it is foldable really recommends it best for home use (folds down to 20x48x80.5 inches for when you need to stow it away). It costs less than the Pop-A-Shot and Lifetime versions and you can tell why in little areas such as the return mat.
That being said, the set comes with everything you need to start playing (after some initial assembly, of course). A double-hoop game back-board, four basketballs and an air-pump. Of course, the deal also includes an LED electronic scoreboard with a buzzer and arcade sound effects for enhanced immersion.
The scorer requires 3 AA batteries, which are not included in the purchase. As for the games, the EZ Fold lets you choose from eight individual modes – One to One, Horse, Beat the Time Clock, 3-point Beat the Time Clock, Around the World, Battle Back, Checkpoint and Left & Right Shoot. Personally, if you could stretch your budget I would choose the Pop-A-Shot or lifetime. But, if you are watching the pennies, this is still a good mid-price indoor basketball game.
4 – Giantex 3-Player Electronic Arcade Basketball Game
- Solid construction.
- Triple basket for 3 player fun.
- Comes with 6 basketballs for continuous play.
- Can be folded against a wall after use.
- Size – 84 inches(H) x 91 inches (D) x 59 inches (w).
- Digital scoreboard and sound effects.
- This game is big so plenty of space required – however it you have the space it’s a great game.
- I would prefer the scorer to be on the board not where the ball retriever is.
Do you want to play indoor basketball 3 players at a time? Well now you can. Giantex has brought out a 3 hoop option to their popular 2 hoop indoor basketball arcade game. So now you have the option of playing 1 player, 2 players or 3 players at the same time. This is one of the best triple hoop indoor basketball games for the price.
Like the Pop-A-Shop and Lifetime, the Giantex is made with a steel construction frame so will be a little more sturdy than some of the cheaper basketball machines on sale. Also folds up to reduce the amount of space required when not in use.
The overall size is 84 inches (H) x 91 inches (D) x 59 inches (W). As you can see from the image, this is big, but does fold away to help with space when not in use. It is big though, and that makes for better game play. If it was smaller you would be ‘on top of’ each other when shooting hoops if 3 players were shooting at the same time.
The Giantex 3-Player Electronic Arcade Basketball Game comes with 6 balls so that’s plenty for quick fire games. The ball return is quick so no waiting about for your next shot. It also has an electronic scorer, time clock and sound effects for that arcade feel.
Fun Bucks Rating: The Giantex 3-Player Electronic Arcade Basketball Game is unique with its 3 hoops instead of two. It looks great and can be folded in half to save space when not in use. Personally, if I didn’t require 3 hoops, I would go for the Pop-A-Shop or Lifetime, but that’s my preference based on the frame construction and the scoring position. However, I would still be more than happy to have the Giantex in my games room.
5 – Triumph Play Maker Double Shootout Basketball Game
- 2 Hoops.
- Budget Range.
- 81 inches (H) x 81 inches (D) x 43 inches (W).
- easy to assemble (quick-connect 22mm metal pipes).
- 8 individual games to play.
- lightweight.
- virtually tool-less assembly (lock-in connections).
- perfect for younger kids.
- Not as sturdy as the more expensive options.
The Play Maker Double Shootout Basketball Game from Triumph is a nice budget-friendly solution for any game room where space is an issue. The game folds down to about 37.5 inches in length (with 43 inches in width and a height of 81 inches), which allows you to efficiently use your space. Another major plus about the game is that the assembly requires virtually no tools (only when tightening up the hardware) – most of the pipes are pre-assembled, which allows you to put everything together in a couple of minutes.
The game is certainly not the sturdiest out there , but at the price point, it is more than adequate. The 22mm metal frame supports a plastic backboard and a thin nylon ramp, and the whole thing is topped off with an electronic scoreboard (LED) with a timer clock. The total number of games playable on the Play Maker is eight, including head to head, beat the time clock and skill-based challenges. The deal also includes a set of four balls, as well as an air pump with a needle. This is great for kids.
6 – Giantex 2 Basket Indoor Basketball Game
- Double basket for 2 players.
- 8 games to choose from.
- 4 Balls
- Infrared sensor scoring.
- Size: 81 inches (H), 80 inches (D), 42 inches (W)
- Foldable for storage.
- Decent steel frame coated in powder.
- Value for money option.
- Assembly could be easier.
- Don’t expect same quality as premium models above.
View The Giantex 2 Basket on Amazon
The Giantex Indoor is a nice double-hoop basketball arcade game for anyone looking to get as much quality for as little money as possible. In other words, it’s intended for those working with a tight budget.
The quality isn’t the same as the pop-A-Shot or Lifetime, but the frame is sturdy enough to take lots of punishment, and the backboard should keep up with it. The polyester ramp could be thicker, but it does the job of returning the ball. It does make up for it with the infrared sensors that are lightning fast and accurate to a high degree. The sound effects are a bit lacking – you do get the classical scoreboard buzzer, but not as much variety in the way of crowd noises, announcers or music themes.
The game comes with four 6.7-inch balls, two hoops and the nets for them, as well as an electronic scoreboard that lets you play up to eight individual games. These include Two and Three Point Challenge, Checkpoint, Horse, Tug of War, Fade Away, Tie Breaker and Side by Side.
Buying Guide
There are a few things worth considering when making your purchase. After all, you will want to purchase the best indoor basketball arcade game you can for your hard-earned money. Below are some of the points we look at when purchasing such an item.
Construction material – Not all games are built the same. You will want to ensure the frame is made from steel to ensure it last for more than just a few games and can take regular, heavy usage.
Height and Space – Before you make your purchase, make sure you know where the game will be positioned. Many purchasers want a basketabll game for a basement. Make sure you have enough room. Measure your available width, depth and height. It’s no good have a well-built arcade basketball game if you don’t have the appropriate roof height to throw the basketballs. The hoop is between 80″ and 90″ and you will require another 12″ or so if you loop your shots. With regards to the depth, some of the better models will fold up to reduce the space required when not in use – This is a great feature.
Scoring System – The better games will have an LED electric scorer, a count down timer and arcade noises. Sure you can get along without one, but when you’re playing a fast game on 1 v 1 with your friends and family, you don’t have he time to focus on scoring.
Basketballs – The good brands will supply you will a number of mini basketballs with your indoor electronic basketball game. The number you will receive will depend on the manufacturer and the number of hoops your game comes with. At a minimum I would expect 4 basket balls, but preferably 6. However you can always purchase more mini basketballs at a later date if you require more.
Number of Hoops – There are single hoop games, dual hoop games and triple hoop games. Personally I would go for as many hoops as your space allows, but where possible always at least two hoops. This is because it’s great to play 1 v 1 on a timer.
This is some really good information about basketball arcade games. It is cool that there are so many different styles. I liked that you pointed out that you should look for one that has more than one hoop. It seems like it would allow you to play with more than one person.