How To Play Rotation

The game rotation is similar to pool. It is played by having players hit pool balls, in numerical order, into a pool table's pockets. The ball with the lowest number should be shot first, and the highest number last. Rotation can be played with two players or in teams. The values of the balls on the table equal 120 points. If each teammate scores 60 points, the next player to score would theoretically win the game.

To begin rotation, the balls must be racked with a triangular rack. The number one ball should be at the topmost peak of the triangle, two and three balls at either corner, and the fifteen in the center. It is imperative to have a tight rack. The number of balls pocketed should be recorded toward the total score of the player who pocketed the ball. There are multiple ways to sink the 8 ball in this game:

• If the player is shooting for the 8 ball, he or she may pocket the 8 ball and continue.
• The player may also bounce the cue ball off of the 8 ball and ricochet it into another ball to sink it.
• He or she may also hit the 8 ball and combine it with another ball to sink that ball.

In the game of strict rotation, a player may only hit in ascending order and pocketing the balls in order as game play continues.  The first player to score at least 61 points wins the game. If a ball is hit into a pocket out of order, the ball may be removed and spotted. To spot a ball means to return the illegally sunk ball to the table on the foot spot, or as near to the foot spot as possible. Retrieving the illegally pocketed ball can become difficult in pool halls or bars where the tables do not have sealed off pockets. Be sure to check the tables before you decide to begin this game.

Rotation is a good game to play when regular pool or other billiards games have become boring. By switching up your game, you keep a strong pool hand and a strong love for cue games.