8 Ball Pool: Miniclip’s Mobile Pool Game for Android and iPhone

8 Ball Pool turns a pub classic into a quick mobile match. You aim with a swipe, set spin on the cue ball and try to clear your group of balls before your opponent does, all in a few minutes per game.

How a match works

Every game is played against another real person. You enter a table with a coin stake, win the pot if you clear the table and pocket the 8 ball, and lose it if you do not. Higher tables carry larger stakes, so a bad streak on an expensive table can empty your balance quickly.

• Friends: You can challenge people you know instead of random opponents.
• Cues and upgrades: Better cues improve aim, power and spin; some are earned in play, others are sold.
• Tournaments and events: Time-limited events add extra rewards on top of normal games.

Getting the app

The official 8 Ball Pool site links to the store listings for Android and iOS. Install it from there rather than from a file-sharing site, because modified packages are a common way to steal accounts. A free Miniclip account lets you keep your progress when you change phones.

What is paid

The game is free to download and play. Miniclip sells coins, cash and cues as in-app purchases. Nothing forces you to buy, but progress on the higher tables is faster for those who do. If children use the device, turn on purchase approval in your store settings.

If you enjoy short skill-based mobile games, Hill Climb Racing follows the same quick-session idea.