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Eight-ball

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description Eight-ball Overview

Eight-ball is a traditional American pocket billiards game played on a standard pool table with six pockets and fifteen object balls. One player must pocket the solid-colored balls numbered one through seven, while the opponent targets the striped balls numbered nine through fifteen. The primary objective is to pocket all of one's assigned balls before legally sinking the black eight ball to win the frame. It is one of the most widely played recreational cue sports globally.

help Eight-ball FAQ

What is the objective of Eight-ball pool?

Eight-ball is an American pocket billiards game requiring players to sink their assigned group of seven balls (either stripes or solids) before legally targeting the eight ball. The game is won by legally pocketing the eight ball into a called pocket after clearing your designated group.

When did Eight-ball originate?

The game originated in the United States in the early 1900s as a variant of pyramid pool. It quickly grew in popularity and became the standard pub and recreational billiards game across North America.

What happens if you scratch on the 8-ball in Eight-ball?

If a player pockets the cue ball (scratches) while shooting at the eight ball, or pockets the eight ball into the wrong pocket, it results in an immediate loss of the game. This strict rule exists to prevent players from taking intentional fouls.

How many balls are used in a game of Eight-ball?

A game of Eight-ball uses a total of 16 balls: one white cue ball and 15 object balls. The object balls consist of seven solid-colored balls numbered 1 through 7, seven striped balls numbered 9 through 15, and one black eight ball.

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