Game Types
Three-Cushion Billiards Rules
Played on a pocketless table with only 3 balls. The objective is to carom the cue ball off both object balls.
3
Balls UsedObjective
Score points by making the cue ball contact both object balls in a single shot, with at least three rail contacts before hitting the second object ball.
Break Rules
- One red, one white, one yellow (or spotted white) ball.
- Starting positions are defined.
- Player with white/yellow must hit red first.
Legal Shot Rules
- Cue ball must hit 3+ cushions AND both object balls to score.
- Cushion contacts can occur before, between, or after object ball contacts.
- One point per successful carom.
Foul Rules
- Missing the carom: turn ends, no point.
- Jumping ball off table: foul.
- No specific penalty points in most formats.
Win Conditions
- First to reach the target score (varies by competition).
- Common targets: 30, 40, or 50 points.
Common Fouls
Insufficient cushion contacts
Missing object ball
Ball off table