Summary

Release Year: 1997
Genres: Sport
Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Sega Saturn
Publishers: ProSoft

Side Pocket 3: The King of Pocket Billiards

Released in 1997 for the PlayStation and Sega Saturn, Side Pocket 3 is the third installment in the popular Side Pocket series of pocket billiards video games. Like its predecessors, Side Pocket 3 features realistic gameplay, a variety of game modes, and the in-game likeness of a real-life professional pool player. In this case, it’s JPBA member, Kyoko Sone.

One of the most striking things about Side Pocket 3 is its 3D graphics. Unlike the prior installments in the series, which used 2D sprites, Side Pocket 3 renders the pool room environment with 3D polygons. This gives the game a much more realistic look and feel. However, players can still choose to view the table in a traditional, top-down fashion.

Side Pocket 3 features a variety of game modes, including:

Story mode: In story mode, players take on the role of a young pool player who is trying to make a name for himself. Players must win tournaments and defeat rival pool players in order to progress through the story.
Training mode: Training mode allows players to practice their skills against a computer opponent. Players can choose from a variety of drills and exercises to help them improve their game.
Trick game mode: Trick game mode challenges players to complete a series of trick shots. These shots are often very difficult, and require a great deal of skill and precision.
Versus mode: Versus mode allows players to compete against each other in a variety of game variants. Players can choose from a variety of different pool tables, and can also customize the rules of the game.

Side Pocket 3 also features a variety of game variants, including:

Eight ball: Eight ball is the most popular pool game in the world. The objective of the game is to pocket all of the balls of one color (either solids or stripes) and then pocket the black ball.
Nine ball: Nine ball is another popular pool game. The objective of the game is to pocket the balls in numerical order, and then pocket the black ball.
Rotation: Rotation is a game variant in which players must pocket the balls in a specific order. The first player to pocket all of the balls wins the game.
14.1 continuous: 14.1 continuous is a game variant in which players must pocket the balls in any order. However, players must pocket at least one ball on each turn.
Bowlliards: Bowlliards is a game variant in which players use a cue ball to knock down pins. The objective of the game is to knock down all of the pins in as few shots as possible.
Cutthroat: Cutthroat is a game variant in which players can pocket each other’s balls. The objective of the game is to be the last player with any balls on the table.
Three ball: Three ball is a game variant in which players use only three balls: the cue ball, the black ball, and one other ball. The objective of the game is to pocket the other ball and then pocket the black ball.
Poker: Poker is a game variant in which players bet on the outcome of their shots. The player who makes the best shot wins the pot.
Pocket game: Pocket game is a game variant in which players must pocket all of the balls on the table. The player who pockets the last ball wins the game.
Mitsudama: Mitsudama is a game variant in which players must pocket three balls of the same color. The player who pockets the most sets of three balls wins the game.
Yotsudama: Yotsudama is a game variant in which players must pocket four balls of the same color. The player who pockets the most sets of four balls wins the game.

Side Pocket 3 is a challenging and rewarding game that is sure to appeal to billiards fans of all skill levels. The game’s realistic graphics, variety of game modes, and challenging trick shots make it one of the best pocket billiards games ever made.

Tips for Playing Side Pocket 3

Here are a few tips to help you improve your game of Side Pocket 3:

Master the basics: Before you can start hitting trick shots, you need to master the basics of the game. This includes learning how to control the cue ball, how to aim your shots, and how to pocket the balls.
Practice: The best way to improve your game is to practice. Play against the computer in training mode, or challenge your friends to a game of versus mode.
Study the table: Before you take your shot, take a moment to study the table. This will help you to identify the best angle to shoot from and the best way to pocket the ball.
Use spin: Spin can be used to control the cue ball and to make the ball curve around obstacles. This can be a very useful technique for hitting difficult shots.
Be patient: Pocket billiards is a game of patience. Don’t try to rush your shots. Take your time and line up your shots carefully.

With a little practice, you’ll be able to master Side Pocket 3 and become a billiards champion.