10 games similar to tennis

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Let’s be real—tennis is an absolute classic. It’s the kind of sport that makes you feel like a champ, whether you’re nailing a powerful serve or just enjoying a rally with friends. But sometimes, it’s fun to mix things up a bit, right? That’s where games similar to tennis come in. They keep the same energy—rackets, fast-paced action, and strategy—but add a unique twist that can be refreshing.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a tennis pro to dive in. These games are perfect for anyone, whether you’re a total beginner, a weekend warrior, or someone who just loves trying new things.

So, if you’ve been feeling like it’s time to spice up your game nights or discover a new favorite sport, you’re in for a treat. Let’s explore 10 games that feel like tennis but bring their own unique flavor to the court.

10 games similar to tennis

1. Pickleball

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Pickleball has exploded in popularity lately, and for good reason—it’s fun, social, and easy to pick up. Played on a smaller court with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball, it’s like a mashup of tennis, badminton, and ping pong.

You can play singles or doubles, and all you need is a paddle, a ball, and a court (which is smaller than a tennis court, making it less intimidating). It’s perfect for players of all ages and skill levels, especially if you’re looking for a less physically demanding alternative to tennis.

2. Padel

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Padel is like tennis’s trendy cousin, popular in Europe and Latin America. It’s played on a smaller enclosed court with walls, similar to squash, but uses a lower-pressure ball and solid paddles instead of strings.

What makes padel unique is the ability to play off the walls, adding a strategic twist. You’ll need a padel racket, padel balls, and access to a court, which is often shared in clubs. It’s a social, fast-paced game that’s easier to learn than tennis but just as thrilling.

3. Badminton

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This one’s a classic! Badminton replaces the ball with a shuttlecock, and the rackets are lightweight and easier to maneuver. Played on an indoor court, badminton tests your speed, reflexes, and ability to anticipate your opponent’s next move. It’s a bit more focused on quick, sharp movements than power. To get started, all you need are rackets, a shuttlecock, and a net. If you love high-energy games with less emphasis on heavy hitting, this one’s for you.

4. Table Tennis (Ping Pong)

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Think of table tennis as tennis in miniature form, played on a compact table. It’s fast, requires sharp reflexes, and can be played almost anywhere, making it incredibly accessible. A lightweight paddle, a small plastic ball, and a ping-pong table are all you need. Plus, it’s a great indoor option when the weather doesn’t cooperate. It’s easy to learn but tough to master, making it a fantastic challenge for players of all skill levels.

5. Squash

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Squash is an intense indoor racket sport played in an enclosed court. Instead of hitting the ball over a net, you smash it against walls, trying to outmaneuver your opponent. The ball is small and rubbery, and the rackets are slightly different from tennis rackets, with a smaller head. It’s a high-energy, cardio-heavy game that’s as much about strategy as it is about speed. You’ll need a squash racket, a ball, and access to a squash court.

6. Racquetball

Similar to squash, racquetball is played in an enclosed court, but it’s less formal in terms of rules and scoring. The racket is shorter and more forgiving, and the ball is bouncier, which makes it more accessible for beginners. Like squash, you’ll need a racket, a ball, and a court. It’s great for those who want a fast-paced, fun game without needing as much precision.

7. Paddle Tennis

Don’t confuse this one with padel—it’s its own sport! Paddle tennis is played on a smaller tennis court with a solid paddle and a depressurized ball. It’s easy to adapt if you already know how to play tennis and requires less running due to the compact court size. You’ll need a paddle tennis racket, a ball, and a court. It’s perfect for players who want the feel of tennis without the need for a full-sized court.

8. Platform Tennis

Platform tennis is like the winter version of paddle tennis, often played outdoors on a heated platform. The paddles are solid, and the balls are specifically designed to handle colder weather. The court is smaller, and the gameplay emphasizes quick reflexes and volleys. You’ll need a paddle, a ball, and a specialized court. It’s a great way to stay active during colder months.

9. Beach Tennis

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Beach tennis brings a tropical vibe to the game, combining tennis and beach volleyball. Played on sand, it uses paddles and a slightly deflated ball to slow down the pace. The net is higher, and there’s no bouncing the ball—everything happens in the air! You’ll need a paddle, a beach tennis ball, and a sandy court (or just head to the beach). It’s a fun, social game that doesn’t feel as competitive as traditional tennis.

10. Soft Tennis

Soft tennis is a Japanese adaptation of the game, using a softer rubber ball and lighter rackets. It’s less physically demanding and puts more focus on technique and strategy. To play, you’ll need a soft tennis racket, ball, and court. It’s beginner-friendly and perfect for those who want a gentler introduction to racket sports.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or just curious about trying new racket sports, there’s no shortage of exciting games to explore. From the friendly rallies of pickleball to the high-energy action of squash and the innovative gameplay of padel, these alternatives keep the spirit of tennis alive while offering their own unique twists.

For players, it’s all about fun, fitness, and connection. For business owners—like padel court managers—these games represent a booming opportunity to grow and engage a passionate community.

As the popularity of sports like padel continues to soar, the need for effective facility management software has become more important than ever. That’s where Rezerv comes in. For players, Rezerv makes it easy to find and book courts or events, ensuring a hassle-free experience. For business owners, Rezerv is a game-changer, providing tools to manage court bookings, memberships, and even marketing—all from a single platform.

With features like automated scheduling, real-time availability updates, and secure payment processing, Rezerv helps court owners focus on delivering top-notch experiences while growing their business.

So, whether you’re stepping onto the court for your first pickleball game or managing a thriving padel club, the future of racket sports is bright. And with tools like Rezerv, it’s never been easier to play, manage, or grow in this dynamic space. Ready to serve up something new? Pick up a racket, hit the court, or start transforming your business today!

Cheers,

Friska 🐨

Read next: What is padel? All you need to know!