How to Play Cartpetball

How to Play Cartpetball

Eric Carroll

Carpetball is a fun and engaging game typically played on a long, narrow table. The objective is to knock your opponent's balls into a basket at the opposite end of the table using a cue ball. 

Setup

  • Players: Carpetball is usually played between two players.
  • Equipment:
    • A carpetball table (typically 8 feet long).
    • 12 pool balls (6 for each player) and 1 white cue ball.
    • A basket at each end of the table.
  • Starting Position: Each player stands at opposite ends of the table. They set up their six pool balls within arm's reach in front of them.

Gameplay

  1. Taking Turns: Players take turns rolling the cue ball towards their opponent's balls, aiming to knock them into the basket.
  2. Knocking Balls In: The game continues until one player successfully knocks all of their opponent's balls into the basket.
  3. Final Throw: If a player has no balls left, they get one final throw. If they can knock in any remaining balls of their opponent during this throw, both players can place one ball back on the table.
  4. Ball Placement: If both players knock in one ball during the same turn, they each return two balls to the table.
  5. Ball Movement Rules:
    • Once a ball is hit, it must remain in its new location.
    • Players cannot touch the balls with their hands after the game has started.
    • If a player rolls too hard and causes a ball to fly off the table, they incur a penalty and must place one of their own balls into their basket.
  6. Ending the Game: The game ends when one player successfully knocks all of their opponent's balls into the basket, or if a player cannot make a legal move.
  7. Ties: In case of a tie, both players place two balls back on their side and continue playing until one player wins.

Additional Rules

  • Players must aim carefully; if they roll too gently and fail to hit any balls, they cannot re-throw.
  • Strategy involves not only knocking in your opponent's balls but also defending your own by positioning your balls strategically on the table.

Carpetball is not only about skill but also about strategy, making it an exciting game for players of all ages! Enjoy your game!

Citations:

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.