Pool, also known as billiards, is a cue sport played on a table with six pockets, using cues to strike balls and sink them into the pockets.
It’s a game of skill and strategy, requiring precision and careful shot planning.
Key Characteristics / Core Concepts
- Cue stick: Used to strike the balls.
- Object balls: Solid-colored and striped balls that are sunk into pockets.
- Cue ball: The white ball used to strike other balls.
- Pockets: Six pockets on the table, the target for object balls.
- Table: A rectangular table with a felt surface.
How It Works / Its Function
Players take turns striking the cue ball to hit object balls into the pockets. Points are awarded based on the balls sunk. Games vary in rules, such as whether a player must pot a specific type of ball, or the number of balls to pocket.
Strategic play is crucial; players must consider angles, spins, and the placement of balls to maximize their chances.
Examples
- 8-ball: A popular game where players must pocket all their designated balls (solids or stripes) before pocketing the 8-ball.
- 9-ball: The object is to pot the numbered balls sequentially.
- Straight pool: Points are awarded for pocketing any ball.
Why is it Important? / Significance
Billiards is a widely enjoyed recreational activity and a competitive sport. It fosters skill development, strategic thinking, and concentration.
The sport has professional leagues and international tournaments, showcasing the high level of skill and athleticism involved.
Related Concepts
- Snooker
- Carom Billiards
- Cue Sports
Pool is a great way to spend time with friends and family, or to engage in serious competitive play.