9-ball is a popular billiard game played with nine numbered balls plus the cue ball. During the 9-ball pool game, the player has to cause the cue ball to hit first the ball with the lowest number on the table without having to pocket the object balls in order. The player who legally pockets the 9-ball, is the winner of the billiard game.
Here is details introduction to the 9-ball billiard game:
Object of the Game
The game of 9-ball is played with 9 object balls numbered 1 through 9. During each shot at the game, the cue ball has to first hit the lowest numbered ball on the table. The player's turn continues as long as he is continuing in pocketing balls legally. When a player either misses or fouls, his turn at the table ends.
The Rack
Before the beginning of the game, the nine object balls are placed inside a diamond shape rack. The 1-ball is placed on the foot spot; the 9-ball in the center and the rest of the balls may be placed randomally.
The Break Shot
The break shot is taken with the cue ball behind the head string. In 9-ball, the requirements for legal break shots are similar to the requirements of any other legal shot, with this exceptions:
The player who commits the break shot has to first hit the 1-ball and then he has to either cause a ball to drop into a pocket or move at least four balls to the rail. If the breaker fails in completing a legal shot, it is a foul. Causing the cue ball to fall into a pocket on the break shot, is also a foul.
Continuous Play
If the breaker pockets at least one ball legally on the break shot, he may continue to shoot until he either fouls or misses. Only after a legal break shot, the player may play a push out, in which he may try to move the cue ball to improve its position for the continuation of the game.
Fouls
A player who commits a foul has to end his turn at the table. Pocketed balls are not spotted as a result of a foul, unless the 9-ball has been pocketed. The opponent of the offender gets a cue ball in hand anywhere on the table. A player who commits three successive fouls, loses the game.
These are considred fouls:
when the cue ball does not hit the lowest numbered on the table (known as Bad Hit)
When a player causes an object ball to jump off the table.
End of the Game
The 9-ballpool game ends when the 9-ball is being pocketed legally or when a player loses as after committing three consecutive fouls.