Cutthroat pool is a dynamic and engaging variation of billiards that is perfect for three players looking for a casual yet competitive experience. Unlike traditional games like 8-ball or 9-ball, cutthroat emphasizes strategy and defense, making it a unique addition to any game night.

What is Cutthroat Pool?

Cutthroat pool is played with three players, each assigned a group of five balls from the standard set of fifteen balls (numbered 1 through 15). The objective is straightforward: pocket your opponents’ balls while keeping your own on the table. The last player with any balls remaining wins the game.

Setting Up the Game

1. Assigning Ball Groups: Before starting, players are assigned groups of balls. Typically, the groups are divided as follows:
   • Player 1: Balls 1-5
   • Player 2: Balls 6-10
   • Player 3: Balls 11-15
2. Racking the Balls: Use a standard triangle rack to set up the balls. Place the 1-ball at the top of the triangle, and the 6-ball and 11-ball in the corners. The remaining balls can be placed randomly in the triangle.
3. Breaking: The first player breaks by hitting the cue ball from behind the head string. For a legal break, at least four balls must hit a rail or one ball must be pocketed. If this is not achieved, the next player can choose to re-rack and break again.

Gameplay Rules

• Taking Turns: Players take turns attempting to pocket their opponents' balls. If a player successfully pockets a ball, they continue their turn.
• Legal Shots: A legal shot requires that the player first hits an opponent's ball and that at least one ball must contact a rail after the shot.
• Fouls: Common fouls include scratching (pocketing the cue ball), double-hitting, or failing to hit an opponent's ball first. If a foul occurs, any pocketed balls are returned to their original positions.
• Elimination: When all of a player's assigned balls are pocketed, that player is out of the game but can re-enter if an opponent commits a foul.

Winning the Game

The game continues until only one player has any balls left on the table. That player is declared the winner. Cutthroat pool is not only about offense; players must also focus on defensive strategies to protect their own balls while targeting their opponents'.

Variations

• Handicapping: More skilled players can be required to hit opponent balls in numerical order or use specific shot types (e.g., bank shots) only.
• Team Play: In larger groups, players can form teams, allowing for more dynamic gameplay.

FAQ

Here are some common questions about cutthroat pool:

1. How many players can play cutthroat pool?
   Cutthroat pool is typically played with three players but can accommodate more by adjusting ball assignments.
2. What happens if I scratch?
   If you scratch, your turn ends, and each opponent gets to place one of their previously pocketed balls back on the table.
3. Can I pocket my own balls?
   Yes, you can pocket your own balls during your turn; however, doing so will end your inning if it’s your last remaining ball.
4. Is there a specific way to rack the balls?
   Yes, you should rack using a standard triangle with specific placements for certain balls (1 at the top, 6 and 11 in corners).
5. What is considered an illegal shot?
   An illegal shot includes failing to hit an opponent's ball first or not having any ball hit a rail after contact.

Cutthroat pool offers an exciting twist on traditional billiards and encourages strategic thinking and adaptability among players. Whether you're playing casually with friends or in a more competitive setting, it's sure to provide hours of entertainment!