Pool Game
8 ball may be the most popular pool game in the world, but it is definitely not the only pool game. Other pool games include 9 ball pool, straight pool, one pocket, 6 ball, 3 ball, pokerball and about a hundred more pool games.
It is true that the pool game 8 ball has become a synonymous for pool. However, every game played on a pocket billiard table can be called a game of pool, with the exception of snooker. This article purpose is to clarify the definition of the term: Pool Game. After reading this you will understand why the game of Snooker isn’t conidered a “Pool Game”.
What is a Pool Game?
Nowadays, pool game equals pocket billiard game. Playing pool means playing some type of billiard game whereby the goal is to pocket the object balls following the specific game’s rules and restrictions. Apparently, in the not so far past, the term “pool” actually referred to the billiard games played on pocketless tables, known today as carom billiards.
The name “pool” is derived from the original setting of the game. In 19th century America, pool games used to be played in poolrooms, which were gambling parlors that hosted horse racetracks and the billiard tables kept the bettors entertained in between races.
Pool vs. Billiard
At the beginning of the 20th century, the pool game had begun to be taken seriously. The pool game was no longer an underground activity but an Olympic sport. Therefore, officially, the term pool has been replaced with billiards or pool-billiard.
Is Snooker a Pool Game?
Snooker is not a pool game, even though it is played on a pocket billiard table. For some historical or political reasons, the snooker game is not part of the pocket billiards family. Snooker and pool-billiard are separated sports, they are governed by different associations and they don’t share the same rules.