Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating reports that certain ESPN-branded air hockey tables manufactured or distributed by Medal Sports may prematurely warp, bow, or deteriorate because of composite playing surfaces and cabinet materials, resulting in inconsistent gameplay and reduced product lifespan.
Consumers report that playing surfaces become uneven, laminate finishes peel, cabinet components separate, and puck movement becomes inconsistent after relatively limited use. Some purchasers allege they purchased these products expecting arcade-quality performance and long-term durability based on the product’s advertising.
What Consumers Report
Consumers report:
- Playing surfaces becoming warped or bowed.
- Pucks slowing, drifting, or stopping unexpectedly.
- Laminate peeling or bubbling.
- Cabinet panels separating or becoming unstable.
- Blower systems functioning properly while gameplay remains uneven.
- Difficulty leveling the table after warping develops.
- Warranty claims being denied because of alleged normal wear.
- Paying to replace tables that failed sooner than expected.
Why Consumers Should Be Concerned
Air hockey tables rely upon a flat, rigid playing surface and consistent airflow to provide the fast gameplay consumers expect. Even minor warping can substantially affect puck movement, making competitive play difficult or impossible.
Consumers purchasing ESPN-branded tables may reasonably expect durable construction capable of withstanding years of family recreation. Some owners, however, allege that composite materials used in the playing field and cabinet begin deforming after relatively limited indoor use. Once the surface bows or swells, airflow alone cannot restore proper gameplay because the puck no longer travels across a level surface.
Consumers also report that repairing or replacing the playing surface is often impractical, leaving replacement of the entire table as the only realistic option. If the product’s materials are prone to premature deterioration despite ordinary use, consumers may have paid for a level of durability that the tables do not consistently provide.
This investigation seeks to determine whether Medal Sports accurately represented the construction, durability, and expected lifespan of ESPN-branded air hockey tables and whether purchasers received products that performed as advertised.
Potential Claims May Include
- Product Defect
- False Advertising
- Consumer Protection
- Deceptive Trade Practices
- Breach of Express Warranty
- Breach of Implied Warranty
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
- Unjust Enrichment
Signs You May Be Affected
You may be affected if:
- You purchased an ESPN-branded air hockey table manufactured or distributed by Medal Sports.
- Your playing surface became warped or uneven.
- Pucks repeatedly drifted, slowed, or stopped unexpectedly.
- Laminate peeled or cabinet components separated.
- Your warranty claim was denied.
- You replaced the table because of premature deterioration.
- You believe the table failed much sooner than reasonably expected.
If you have encountered these issues, we would like to hear from you. Please complete the contact form on this page, send us an email at [email protected], or give us a call at (202) 470-3520.