Ever wondered what it would be like to be a pool shark and run the table in a tournament? Expert Pool gives you tips and lessons in a 3D environment that is capable of playing any game playable on a pool table. I play pool once a week with friends, and I have always been looking for an electronic pool game to improve my game with my friends. Much of Expert Pool translates back to the pool hall.

Expert Pool has a wonderful interface and free-moving camera views that are destined to impress. The lighting and shadow effects are excellent and give a realistic way to line up shots visually. I have played a lot of pool games that place imaginary laser lines to show what shots you can make, I was relieved to see none of this. The settings and atmosphere of the different bars, basements, tournaments, and pool halls were adequate -- but not the meat of the game. Although the 3D rendering of the players left quite a bit to be desired, it was still enjoyable because of the realism of the game engine.

The game engine ran quickly and realistically, as well it should. Much of the data and statistics of the way pool balls work and react was based on real life physics and mathematical algorithms. What exactly does all that mean? I don’t know either, but I do know that Kasson, a manufacturer of pool tables and equipment, provided the statistical data off which the game engine was based. This is the first computer pool game I have ever played that uses realistic ball friction, which means you can really put some English on the ball and cause it to actually jump over obstacle balls.

As far as a learning curve goes, this game is quite difficult to master, but easy to learn. I still have difficulty with how hard I strike the cue ball, which more often than not is way too hard. This game would be perfect if it had force feedback support and you could judge how hard you were shooting.

Since the game engine is so good, I have learned quite a few useful things that apply to the local pool hall, and believe me, some of the simplest tips can be the most helpful. Putting English on a ball was a complete mystery to me, and I relied for the most part on what is called a ‘cut shot.’ This game elevated me to new levels; my friends thought I was a ringer due to the overnight improvement in my game.

Another thing I really enjoyed about Expert Pool was the fact that you have 19 different games from which to choose. The most I have seen before this game was eight different game varieties.

If you play pool with your friends and are looking for something to surprise them with, then this is the game you should definitely get. I enjoyed this game immensely for its refreshing realism and what it could teach me, though admittedly, it is probably due to the fact that I love to play pool.

Installation 10 A quick install, not a space hog.

Game Play 8.5 I wanted to give it a 10 for the game engine, but I feel there is still work to be done on the game interface.

Graphics 9.5 The lighting effects on the table were wonderful, and the free motion camera was done well.

Sound 9.5 The ball sounds are amazing, and the ambient noises add fullness; music could be better.<

Concept 7.5 A breakthrough in the field of pool games. But, still a pool game.

Difficulty 7 Learning how to make shots is easy, making them is difficult. Value 8 If you are buying a pool game, get this one.

Overall 8.6