Billiard Challenge

Gameplay and controls are executed through a combination of keyboard inputs and on-screen indicators. The player first selects a game type from the main menu: 8-ball, 9-ball, or straight pool. The cue ball is positioned by default at the break point. To aim, the player moves a crosshair cursor over the table using the arrow keys. The direction of the shot is indicated by a dotted line extending from the cue ball. The player adjusts the angle of the cue by pressing the left and right arrow keys to rotate the cue stick around the cue ball. The power of the shot is set using a vertical power meter located on the right side of the screen. The player presses and holds the spacebar to begin the power gauge, which rises and falls in a continuous cycle. Releasing the spacebar locks the power level and executes the shot. The cue ball then travels according to the set angle and force. After each shot, the player may apply spin by pressing the up, down, left, or right keys before the shot is taken, which modifies the cue ball’s rotation upon contact. The game ends when a player wins by pocketing the required balls or when a foul is committed, such as pocketing the cue ball or failing to hit any ball. The artificial intelligence opponent calculates its own shots using the same aiming and power mechanics.