Do you play 'all games'? (what does that mean to you?)
I think I play most all games. I like the variety they offer. The only game I haven't played is Pyramid but I think you need special equipment for that one
What are the primary games? (which games teach what?)
I like 14.1 for making balls. 9/10 ball seem to teach shape a little better than others. Bank/1-Pocket offer more challenge and definitley work on areas that you don't normally work on but need during any game. Of course 8-ball is a universal game that everyone needs to work on...just for 8-ball.
In what order did you learn them? (would you change that order with hindsight?)
I started with 8-ball, 9-ball, 14.1, bank, Cribs and Peterson Pool. I never had a mentor but I think I learned from each of these games.
Which one teaches the most transferable skills? (is there a 'mother game' that teaches the most?)
My current practice session begins with a rack or two of Equal Offence (to get instroke and learn table speed), then gravitates to 9-ball (to further hone the speed thing and also works on shape) and I usually end up with a few racks of 8-ball (just to practice 8-ball).
Have you gravitated to certain games as aging affects vision, stamina, flexibility,etc.? (can't see/bad knees-back-elbow-shoulder)
I do appreciate the games of skill more now. One pocket, Bank and some 10-ball are a lot of fun. I still play a lot of 8-ball just cause it's the game most people play. I really enjoy a good game of Golf on a snooker table too. That can mess up your stroke some but you learn kicking pretty good.
Personally, I regret leaving until very recently taking up 3c and 14.1.
I will never be very good at any of the games, but I would like to become familiar with most of them.
Thanks for your opinions.
Take care.
