Despite being played by over 100 million people worldwide, snooker is one of the most underrated sports. The game, founded in India over 140 years ago, is popular in over 110 countries—chief of which is the UK.
Aside from the World Snooker Tour, the game’s most significant event, many smaller tournaments occur annually. These events are the lifeblood of the sport, but many players still can’t get enough. For those seeking to experience the sport’s anticipation and thrill away from the billiards table, the following snooker-themed games should be just the ticket.
Snooker Stars (Android and iOS)
As one of the most popular snooker games available on mobile devices, Snooker Stars is perfect for players who want realistic gameplay and the ability to play with friends.
Downloadable via the Google Play Store and Apple Store, the game has a generous career mode that will take considerable time to complete. Whether playing career or online against friends, however, the game’s realistic physics make it something that any snooker lover will enjoy.
But the most significant standout of this game is that it is designed for mobiles—meaning that you can enjoy it no matter where you happen to be.
Brunswick Pro Billiards (Xbox One, PS4, PC, and Wii)
Anyone who enjoys snooker will already know what Brunswick is. The brand is synonymous with quality snooker items and is responsible for some of the best equipment available in the industry. And while this game features billiards rather than snooker, the fun it offers is just the same.
Brunswick Pro Billiards is the official video game released by the brand and features the same quality you’ve come to expect. As expected, the game is filled with Brunswick equipment, including tables, cues, and other tools.
Credited with having some of the most realistic physics of any snooker game on the market, Brunswick Pro Billiards might make you forget you’re playing a video game. This is especially true if you use it with motion consoles like the Nintendo Wii.
Legends of Snooker: One-Shot (PC)
Released as a PC game, Legends of Snooker: One-Shot is more than just a game, as it can be used as a tool to hone your snooker skill in real life. What snooker player wouldn’t want that?
Rather than offering traditional snooker, the game presents multiple challenges and puzzles. These take the form of a snooker table with obstacles set up in strategic places. To pass the level, you’ll need to calculate the exact angle and power with which to strike the ball.
While this may sound like more work than fun, the game’s spectacular physics and the unique thought process it requires are a great way to enjoy your time away from the physical table. It is also a phenomenal way to improve your skill before your next game.
Top Spin Snooker Slot (Online)
Whether you consider online slots to be video games or just a way to try your luck, there is no denying that Top Spin Snooker is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience snooker besides playing the physical game itself. Due to its popularity and chances to win big, this slot is a classic.
Offering spectacular graphics that comprise all the snooker paraphernalia you may be used to, like chalk and colored balls, the game has a lot in store for players. The least of these are the side pocket wilds that help increase any win by a substantial amount.
The Master of Spin bonus game will also take the fun of playing to the next level. During this round, you’ll need to find a coloured ball hidden amongst several white balls. Doing so leads to great rewards and even greater enjoyment.
Snooker19 (PC, PS4/5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch)
If you’re serious about snooker, you’ll want to play a game that features actual game championships and real-life tournaments and venues. Thankfully, Snooker19 offers all this and more.
With an intelligent physics and realism engine, the game looks incredible, and the balls’ movement across the tabletop is flawless. The in-game commentary as you play is also a welcome addition that makes you think you’re not playing a video game.
Aside from the excellent career mode, make sure to try the online multiplayer mode and play against other players from around the globe to see whose skills reign supreme.
Pro Snooker (Android and iOS)
Yet another game that can be played no matter where you are, Pro Snooker offers realistic physics and an engaging experience that may make it challenging to put your phone down.
The game is regularly updated with features that help enhance the playing experience. Amongst these are many ways to adjust settings to individual preferences.
These include ball spin while playing, how much power is behind each shot, and even what camera angles the game uses when setting up a shot. Having these finetuned is invaluable when participating in virtual tournaments where you can show your skill and win various trophies.
Conclusion
While pool and billiards are still the most viable replacements if you can’t play snooker when the need arises, physical games always require access to a table that may not always be available.
Thankfully, game developers are always thinking ahead and have released some fantastic games for snooker players to enjoy whenever, wherever. And the chalk on the cue stick is that many of them will help you refine your skills before your next table showdown.