Pool 8 Balls

Pool : 8 Balls is a fun, simple billiards game for PC.

Pool: 8 balls is an addictive, accessible and above all else, free American 8 balls (billiards) game. The 3D graphics are straightforward and simple, and may be too prosaic for some game players. However, it is a free download, so the old adage "You get what you pay for" must be borne in mind. The graphics do not hinder an enjoyable game play experience, it is easy to move and rotate the camera angle and zoom in on particular shots. The sound effects are eerily reminiscent of a real life pool hall, even to the sounds of the cue ball hitting off the colored ones at various speeds.

Even if a game player is not a pool shark in real life, it should have no effect in learning to master Pool: 8 Balls. The game is so straightforward that even players who never once chalked a cue or hung out at a real life pool hall can master the skills in a matter of minutes. However, it does contain more advanced and challenging modes for more skilled players, to avoid boredom and fatigue.

The game consists of 5 levels, London, Sydney, Moscow, Tokyo and Las Vegas. Using the mouse or touch pad (or your finger if using a touchscreen Windows 10 machine), it is possible to adjust the angle of the cue stick. This enables the player to see both the trajectories of the cue ball and the ball that is being aimed for. The in game chat function allows players to send messages from a pre-loaded list to their opponent ("Oops", "Unlucky", "Nice Shot") and other pool hall cliches.

Aside from the aforementioned issue of the basic graphics, there are few complaints about this free downloadable game. The physical interaction is impressively accurate and responsive. The pace is relaxing and steady, with no irritating background music or excessive sound effects. The download will not take up an excessive amount of memory space, and should function correctly even on older Windows XP operated laptops and PC's.

Pros

• Appropriate for all age groups
• Compatible with older and lower spec PC's
• Can play against friends on Local Area Network (LAN)

Cons

• Very Basic Graphics
• Very little variety
• No formal competition mode