LifePool Rules - Sheet

Reproduction of an original set of Lifepool rules, originally published by Burroughes and Watts.

Lifepool was originally played before snooker was invented.  It was played by 2 or more players with coloured balls with several ways to play.  Typically, each ball having 3 lives and bets were placed on the game with the aim of winning the pool of money at the end, hense the name of lifepool.

This was an early example of pool being played, unlike todays version of UK pool or American pool.

Lifepool was a dynamic and strategic game, blending classic billiards mechanics with competitive survival elements. Designed for multiple players, Lifepool introduces the concept of "lives," where each player is allotted three lives at the beginning of the game. The goal? Be the last player standing.

Basic Rules:

• Players: 2–12
• Setup: Each player assigned a specific ball or colour.
• Lives: Each player begins with 3 lives (with extra able to be purchased if the first to loose all 3 lives).

Gameplay:

• Players take turns attempting to legally pocket balls.
• If a player sinks another player's assigned ball, that player loses a life.
• Sinking your own ball has no effect, but potting the cue ball or committing a foul costs you a life.
• When a player loses all their lives, they’re eliminated from the game.
• The last remaining player wins and wins the pool of money.

Strategy:

• Lifepool adds layers of mind games, alliances, and targeted plays. Choose your shots carefully—go for the kill, or play it safe?
• Players may form temporary truces or gang up on the current leader, but in the end, only one can survive.