9 Ball Billiards

This section will give you some tools to master the game, starting with the basics.

Game Rules and Objective

To legally pocket the 9-ball before your opponent is your goal in 9 billiards. However, you should always start by hitting the lowest-numbered ball on the table.

If the 3-ball is the lowest, for instance, your cue must strike it before touching any other ball. As long as the first contact is legal, you can still pocket higher-numbered balls on the same shot, including the 9-ball.

Game Start and Legal Break

The game begins with a diamond rack. The 1-ball is ahead of the other balls, while the 9-ball sits in the middle; the others are positioned randomly. You have to hit the 1-ball first to make a legal break; then, either sink a ball or drive at least four balls to the rails.

Turn Play and Fouls

Players can continue to hit the lowest ball first after the break. When you make a successful shot, you can continue playing. If you commit a foul, that is, fail to hit the correct ball first or pocket the cue ball, your opponent gets the ball in hand and can place the cue ball anywhere on the table.

Should the 9-ball be pocketed illegally, it is placed back on the table. You win the game by performing a legal pocketing, which occurs after a correct shot on the lowest-numbered ball.

If you're hooked on 9 Ball, you'll enjoy our full collection of all billiards games. You can also play multiplayer games to challenge friends or explore even more online games for every mood.

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