Quick answer: Solo pool games are games you can play alone on a pool table. Good choices include playing “the ghost” in 9 ball, trying to run out an 8 ball rack, playing three ball against your own best score, and simple drills like the straight line or the line up game. The key is to keep score so you have a goal to beat. Solo games are fun, and they help you practice aiming, speed, and position.
You do not need a partner to enjoy pool. Here are simple solo pool games for any skill level.
1. Play the Ghost
This is a classic solo game. You play 9 ball against an imaginary perfect player called the ghost.
- Rack 9 ball and break.
- Take ball in hand after the break.
- Try to run all the balls in order.
- If you miss, the ghost wins that rack.
Keep track of how many racks you win out of ten. Beginners can use fewer balls, like 6 balls. See how to play 6 ball pool.
2. 8 Ball Run Out
- Rack 8 ball and break.
- Pick solids or stripes.
- Try to make all your balls and then the 8.
- If you miss, count how many you made.
Try to beat your score every time.
3. Three Ball Solo
Three ball is a quick game you can score alone. Rack three balls, break, and count how many shots it takes to sink them all. Lower is better. Learn the game in how to play 3 ball pool.
4. The Line Up Game
- Put balls in a straight line down the middle of the table.
- Take ball in hand and try to pocket them one by one.
- Count how many you make before you miss.
It is a lot like the practice side of straight pool rules.
5. Bowliards for One
Bowliards uses bowling style scoring on a pool table. It is great for solo play because you keep a real score out of 300. See how to play bowliards.
6. Golf on a Pool Table
Pick a pocket as “hole 1” and count how many shots it takes to sink one ball there. Then go to the next pocket. It is fun and easy to score. See how to play golf on a pool table.
7. Stop Shot Challenge
Set up a straight shot and try to make the ball and stop the cue ball dead. Count how many you do in a row. This builds cue ball control.
Quick Guide
| Game | Best for | How to score |
|---|---|---|
| The ghost | Running racks | Racks won out of ten |
| 8 ball run out | Game practice | Balls made |
| Three ball | Quick sessions | Fewest shots |
| Line up | Aim and focus | Balls in a row |
| Bowliards | Full scoring | Points out of 300 |
| Pool golf | Fun practice | Fewest strokes |
Tips to Get More From Solo Play
- Keep a notebook of your scores.
- Play for 20 to 30 minutes with focus instead of hours without a goal.
- Mix fun and drills.
- Use rotation games to practice shooting in order. See rotation pool rules.
When You Find a Partner
Solo games build skills you will use with friends. When you have a partner, try pool games for 2 players. With a group, try how to play cutthroat pool or how to play killer pool.
The Bottom Line
Solo pool games let you have fun and improve without a partner. Try the ghost, an 8 ball run out, three ball, the line up game, bowliards, or pool golf. Keep score, set goals, and watch your game get better over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play pool by yourself?
Yes. Many games, like the ghost, three ball, and bowliards, can be played and scored alone.
What is playing the ghost in pool?
It is a solo 9 ball game where you try to run the rack. If you miss, the imaginary ghost wins.
What is the best solo pool game for beginners?
Three ball and pool golf are simple and easy to score. The ghost with fewer balls also works well.
How long should I practice pool alone?
Short, focused sessions of 20 to 30 minutes often work better than long sessions without a goal.