Even though there are a large number of billiard and pool games out there to choose from, most people do not have a billiard game repertoire of more than 15 or 20 games, maximum. Of course you could always go out and learn new games. That is always an option. There are, however, a number of things one can do to make any billiard game more interesting, some of which are described below.
Handing out points in 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, just like 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 don’t 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 non designated pocket gets spotted by your opponent anywhere on the table.
Inventing new ways to spice up your billiard game is generally not too difficult. Try one of these methods next time your billiard room experience becomes dull or monotonous. Or think up methods of your own. Livening up your billiard play will, in turn, increase your overall experience every time you step foot into your billiard room. For more information regarding home billiards, visit Billiard N Bar Stools.
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