Side Pocket (Japan) is a classic pocket billiards simulator released for the NES in 1987 by Data East. Instead of traditional pool rules, the game challenges you to score a predetermined number of points to advance through increasingly difficult cities. It stands out for its realistic physics, allowing you to apply various types of spin to the cue ball to line up complex trick shots and sink balls in sequential order for bonus points.
How to Play
Your objective is to clear all the balls on the table while meeting the minimum score requirement for the current city before running out of missed shots. Sink balls to earn points and continue your turn, with bonus points awarded for sinking them in numerical order or into flashing pockets. Controls: Use the D-pad to aim your shot and adjust spin, A to set shot power and strike, B to view the entire table, and Start to pause (mapped to arrow keys, Z, X, and Enter in your browser).
Tips
- Mastering “English” (spin) is essential for later stages. Apply backspin to stop the cue ball dead after a shot, helping you maintain position for your next move.
- Hit softly when aiming for precise shots; striking the ball with maximum power can cause it to rattle in the pocket jaws and pop back out.
- Keep an eye out for the flashing pockets, as sinking a ball into one awards significant point bonuses needed to meet the strict quotas in advanced cities.
Leave a Comment / Review: