Sure, it looks the same as our pool, or billiards if you will, but its played entirely differently. Most of the skill set involved in American pool revolves around strategically placing your balls in front of the pockets so your opponent can’t get his in. In Russian billiards, all that is thrown out the window. Anyone can hit any ball into any pocket at anytime. There is no ‘cue’ ball except for breaking, one ball is red. The numbered balls only are numbered as a courtesy for you to talk about hitting them. The rule is simple. The first person to sink 8 balls is the winner.

If only it were that easy. If you look closely at the photo, you’ll see something off about the dimensions. The balls are significantly larger (as is the table) and the holes are significantly smaller. In fact, they are less than half a centimeter wider than the balls.

If you goof your shot and leave a ball almost in a pocket, on your opponents turn he will sink it. Russian billiards is a game of attrition, whoever doesn’t screw up first, wins. Maybe it reflects Russian culture a bit?

When I get back to the US, I will find a proper Russian pool table and show all of you what a difficult game it is.

BTW, You should check out my shiny redone resume at the top of the page. Now in PDF format. I’m applying for jobs now, so feedback would be great! Just leave a comment here or e-mail me. You know where. (hint, see ‘contact’)

[Wikipedia article]