Enjoy our modern designs
Estimated Read Time: 4 mins |
Slosh—also known as Russian Pool—mixes the merriment of a round game with the precision of cue sport. Celebrated for its “very free-scoring” nature and friendly spirit, it thrives in pubs, clubs, and casual “schools” where top-tier billiards or snooker players rarely venture. Understanding Slosh means grasping its unique ball setup, multi-pocket scoring, and penalty-driven break limits.
Equipment & Table Layout
Set your table with four coloured balls at prescribed spots: the black on the billiard spot, the blue at centre, the green on the left baulk-line spot, and the yellow on the right. You begin each frame with cue‐ball in hand. After drawing lots to decide order, the first shot must hit the black ball—after that, any ball is fair game.
Unique Baulk Rule
Slosh bends one standard pool rule: when cue-ball is in hand, baulk pockets provide protection for balls resting there, as in billiards. This exception adds a tactical layer to safety play and positioning.
Scoring & Penalties
- Two-ball cannons earn two points apiece whenever one coloured ball caroms into another.
- Black ball potted or in-off into a top pocket scores nine points.
- Blue ball potted or in-off into a middle pocket scores seven points.
- Green ball potted or in-off into a baulk-pocket scores five points.
- Yellow ball potted or in-off into a baulk-pocket scores three points.
Misplacing a ball into the wrong pocket instantly forfeits its value and ends your break. Most frames end not by running out of balls but by an errant shot that triggers a penalty.
Local Variations & Friendly Adjustments
Pink balls (six points) sometimes join the mix on the pyramid spot as “free balls,” scoring from any pocket or via cannons. Other local substitutions and value tweaks abound—always ask for house rules before play. Clifford praises official rule publications for serious venues, but he emphasizes that Slosh’s welcoming nature thrives on sporting spirit and easy custom tweaks.
Why Play Slosh?
Slosh equalizes skill levels: stunning breaks are possible, but a single slip can hand the table to an opponent. Its rapid scoring keeps matches brisk, and the shifting pocket-value map rewards both bold cannons and careful position play. Perfect for social gatherings, it pairs light stakes with engaging tactics.
Conclusion
Slosh earns its place alongside Skittle Pool and Live Pool as a convivial round-game cousin to classic pocket billiards. Its blend of cannon play, coloured-ball targeting, and pocket-specific scoring makes every frame unpredictable and engaging. Whether you’re introducing newcomers or seeking a lively rotation game, Slosh delivers endless variety—just mind those penalties, and may your breaks be long and penalty-free.
