When one thinks of billiard games, most think of more typical games like 8-Ball, 9-Ball or Straight Pool. But actually, the possibilities are nearly endless. Hundreds of games exist, many even with multiple variations of themselves. Even still, those who spend an adequate amount of time in their billiard or rec rooms know that regardless of how many games there are, games might become a bit dull or monotonous at times. There are many ways to spice up existing games, some of which are described below.
Assessing or adding points to any billiard game always makes it more interesting, although many games exist that already incorporate points into game play. For example, players could modify a normal game of 8-Ball by assessing points to the player with balls left on the table. Keep playing over and over until a predetermined point total has been reached by one player or another (50-100 points is average). In this particular case, the person with the lowest amount of points is the winner, as in golf. Scoring more points in this scenario means you are leaving more balls on the table than your opponents – usually a no-no in billiard games. And points can be spread out in a number of ways, such as one point per ball, negative points, or giving each ball points totaling their face values. Extra points can even be handed out for bank shots, combos, rail shots or leaves, as well.
Making a small wager on any billiard game is another time-tested method to make any match more exciting and competitive, yet it keeps the game on a friendly level. And just as in any other sport, billiard games can be bet on in a number of ways, like wagering a dollar per ball left on the table, a straight-up, predetermined amount, or a double elimination tournament with a prize purse for first, second and third places.
If you are not a betting individual or points do not interest you, try eliminating certain shots to make your billiard game more challenging. For instance, only allow bank or masse shots instead of straight ones. Or make combination shots the only way to sink a ball, having no contact between the cue and object balls. Or just use certain pockets, like the two sides; or pick two corners. Anything sunk in a nondesignated pocket gets spotted by your opponent anywhere on the table.
There is usually no end to inventing new ways to liven up any billiard game. Try a few of these methods next time you become bored with your games. Perhaps these ideas will also help you branch off and come up with even more ideas to utilize in future billiard games.
