My first week I was a 4 playing a 6. I won 3-0 and went up to a 6. The 2nd week I was a 6 and won and was then a 7. Was a 7 for the rest of the time I played APA...bout 3 years. The rating system in 8ball should be as in 9ball to a 9...but you can't have a 9 play a 2 and have a 7-2 race cause it...