Pool
Pool or billiards is a popular game that still reigns supreme in bars, homes, and even online gaming sites. With a number of ways to play, you can never get bored with a classic game of pool.
History of Pool
This game is one of a truly epic magnitude. Pool has been played by more people than most realize. It is a very popular game, and despite the introduction of online gaming, it still remains one of the most popular in the world. It is rumored to have been introduced by an official name in the 1800s and hasn't lost any steam since it was first invented. While Pool does have history prior to the 1800s, it wasn't as widely known as Billiards.
Originally there was not a Pool stick to play with. Players used an oddly shaped mace instead, but that was ineffective due to the bulky size. Players became clever and started using the handle to shoot the balls when they were close to the rails. The Pool stick, or cue, was invented in the late 1600s as a means to fix the mace issue.
Billiards was created in Europe so it is much more popular in Britain, France, and other European nations. It is currently known as "Snooker" in Britain, and tournaments are plentiful there each day.
After the 1800s the equipment used to play the game began to evolve. Pool tables became fancier and more elite. They were made from materials such as solid wood with intricate carvings. More materials were added to tables to make them better, to increase game play efficiency, and to make it an overall more enjoyable game.
8 Ball and 9 Ball are variations that were not invented until the early 1900s. These styles are still common today, while more variants have been added to the long list of Pool games.
How to Play Pool
There is no set way to play Billiards, as there are many different variants of the game. Pool is one of those games that you can play for serious competition, or just relaxing fun. It can be played alone or with an opponent, but it is a better experience with another player.
8-Ball is the most standard type of Pool, and is played for most tournaments and for real money. The players arrange the balls into a triangle, and then use the cue ball to shoot. The goal is to see who pockets a ball first. The player that pockets a ball will either have stripes or solids and continues their turn. If you successfully pocket on one hit, then you get to go another turn.
Click Here to Play Pool Online
The ultimate goal is to pocket all of your balls, stripes or solids, then the 8 ball. Avoid hitting the cue ball into a pocket for your win to count.
9 Ball is another popular variant. To play you simply hit each ball numbered 1 through 9 in sequential order. They must be pocketed in order for the win to count.
Straight Billiards isn't as common but it can last awhile. In this version players strike the opponents balls to gain points. The more you strike the more points you rack up. This game can last indefinitely or until the players decide to stop.
Play Pool For Real Money
Men and even royals have been playing Pool for real money for centuries. Since the introduction of the very first Pool game, betting has been involved. Making bets for Pool is an excellent way to win big. Online play makes it easier to win, and strategical play is a little easier without the pressure of opponents in your direct physical space.
Before attempting to play Billiards for real money, you should develop skills first. Practice often then start playing for cash. There are some great sites out there that help players win cash by playing online.
Strategy for Playing Pool
There are a number of strategical methods for playing Pool. Since there are so many variants and types of players, it is important to develop your own skill style that is comfortable and easy to adjust to. No two players will shoot the same or have the same strategy unless they plan it that way. This is what makes the game such a challenge. It is largely mental and requires focus and dedication, and part skill to master.
When starting playing Billiards always visualize where you want your ball to go. Analyze the table and make an informed decision about where you can pocket. Imagine a line going from your ball to a pocket, and then gauge the force at which you must hit to be successful at pocketing. If an opponents ball is too close to a pocket, try to knock it out of the way.
Never stay solely focused on making a hit each turn. You can tease the opponent a little by making the game last awhile. Never get too cocky about your moves though, anything can be a game changer.
Chalk the cue tip each time you shoot. Don't do a twist motion like most players. Instead, scrape it across the cue tip in a gentle motion. Too much chalk is bad, just enough will help you dramatically.
Decide what your proper form is. Everyone has a comfortable playing method for Billiards. Find what makes you play your best and stick with it. It is perfectly acceptable to have the same play stance again and again.
If you are playing online simply do not cheat. Play honestly with other players. Online game play makes the rules much easier to abide by because the computer programs force that upon players. This is an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn and play with talented players from around the world.
Pool is a game that is largely strategy and mental focus. When you combine the two you can achieve master status quite easily. Eventually you will be able to win real money playing Pool online and in offline tournaments.
