10-Ball: The Challenge of Extreme Precision

If you think 9-Ball is exciting, get ready to take things to the next level. 10-Ball is considered by many professionals to be the true test of skill in pool. Why? Because there's no room for luck; only perfect execution.

How is it different?
Unlike other variations, 10-Ball punishes mistakes and rewards pure strategy:

Call your shot: It's not enough for the ball to go in. You must call out which ball you're going to pocket and in which pocket. If it goes in by chance or on a bounce without you calling it out, it doesn't count!

More traffic on the table: With an extra ball compared to 9-Ball, the lanes are narrower and defenses are much more complex.

The break is key: The rules are usually stricter regarding the initial break to prevent "lucky" wins from the very first shot.

Tips for Mastering the Game
Plan 3 Steps Ahead: Don't just look at the ball you're going to shoot. Look at where the cue ball will be for the next contact. In 10-Ball, getting "trapped" behind another ball is very easy.

Composure and Control: Since you have to call every shot, speed control is vital. A strong, uncontrolled shot usually results in a foul or a table "given" to your opponent.

Defense Also Wins: If you don't have a clear shot, play smart defense. Hiding the cue ball is sometimes more satisfying than pocketing an impossible ball.

Mini-Guide: Official 10-Ball Rules
10-Ball is a called shot game. This means that luck plays a very small role.

1. Setting Up the Triangle
A triangle (or grid) is used with the balls 1 through 10:

The 1 ball is always placed on the point (on the foot spot).

The 10 ball must be placed in the center of the triangle.

The other balls are placed randomly.

2. The Objective
Winning the game requires legally pocketing the 10 ball. You must always strike the lowest-numbered ball on the table first.

3. Calling the Shot (The Golden Rule)

Unlike 9-Ball, here you must call the ball and pocket on every shot (except the break).

If the ball goes into a pocket other than the one called, it is considered a "missed shot."

If additional balls are pocketed on a legally called shot, those balls remain in the pocket (except for the 10-ball, which is replaced).

4. What happens if the 10-ball is pocketed early?

On the break: If the 10-ball is pocketed on the break, it is replaced on the foot spot, and the player continues their turn. The set is not won directly on the break.

During play: If you pocket the 10-ball using a legal combination (by calling it), you win the game. If it is pocketed without being called, it is replaced, and the opponent decides whether to shoot or return the turn.

5. Common Fouls

Committing a foul gives the opponent "ball in hand" (they can place the cue ball anywhere).

Not touching the lowest-numbered ball first.

Not touching a cushion after contact (if no ball is pocketed).

Knocking the cue ball off the table.

Do you prefer the speed of 9-ball or the discipline of 10-ball? Tell us your favorite mode in the comments.