It doesn't really matter if you're a newbie or an old pro at pool. The most important thing is to decide whether you prefer to play 8-ball or 9-ball. Both can be fun and competitive, but 9 ball offers more chances to win. The best way to choose between the two is to consider your personal style and your game skills.
8 ball can be a great choice for anyone who is just starting to play or someone looking for an enjoyable way to spend their free time. You will have a lot more opportunities to make shots and the game is simpler than 9 ball. However, the game is more complicated than the one you may have played before. It is important to know all the rules.
You will need to be able to tell when you should make a pocket, when you should run out, and when you can play safe with the 8 ball. You will need to take all the balls from your side and pocket them first before you can make a run for it. Depending on the tournament you are participating in, you may be required to make a certain number of pocket shots before you can run out. You should still be able make the 8 ball in just one or two shots.
There are many similarities between the 8 ball and the 9 ball. There are two options: you can use a triangle or slop to guide the balls to the right place, or you can use the 8 ball to guide them. But you can't pocket any ball with a 9 ball. Only a handful of shots can be made on a 9-ball, and only one is the "Golden Break," meaning that you win regardless of previous balls.
The Golden Break can be taken right after your break. If you are able to make the shot, it is possible to win. To be successful, however, you must have a good grasp of the cueball. You'll have a difficult time making the 8 ball if your cue ball is not in sync. The rules for 8 ball will vary a bit, but in general, you will need to be very precise with your shots, and the game is not as forgiving as it might sound.
The main difference in the two games is 8 ball is slightly easier than 9 ball. It is however more difficult to master. It is actually more difficult to master because there are so many national bodies that oversee the rules of 8 ball. You will need to learn them all before you can play. Also, 8 ball's rules may be slightly different to 9 ball.