As a newcomer to the pool hall you will be able to take on any of the 13 characters found within the game. There are 5 in normal rank, 5 in pro rank and at least 3 bonus characters. Each has his or her own unique set of characteristics and techniques of play. While there are only 4 pool hall to choose from, each has been beautifully and meticulously designed to give it's own character and feeling. If only real pool halls looked like this. The game has a number of game modes including: Billiard Lessons, VS. Player Game, Frozen Game and Free Play.
The lessons are definitely worth the time as the competition does not fool around and you will need to fine tune all of your skills. Easy-to-understand lessons are given by Japanese billiard master Yoshikazu Kimura, beginning with the basics and progressing to advanced techniques. There are 10 lessons in total. In VS. mode play against another game player, Q-Ball Original characters or Q-Ball Professional Player characters. Learn to complete the different "Bingo Combinations" in unique Bingo System. There are additional games you can unlock when certain conditions are met. The Frozen Game Mode is puzzle-like Q-Ball original game with a total of 50 stages. Free Play is fun in order to get used to the different pool halls, tables and game types. You want a variety of billiards games? You have it here with the following included in the game: U.S. Nine Ball, International Nine Ball, Eight Ball, Straight Pool, Rotation, Frozen and Free Play.

The graphics are about the best you could ask for in a billiards game. Everything is finely detailed. Zoom in on the ball to find nicks and scratches. Players have full control of the camera angle which includes viewing the action from behind or above the table. This is very helpful when it comes to determining and judging difficult shots. What really makes this game shine is the physics of the balls and cues. Using a variety cues gives you increased strike point accuracy while you take into consideration friction, speed, ball collision and how the ball may roll. This detail to accuracy is also evident in how you use the controller. The Dual Shock 2 analog controller allows for a keen sense of resistance and force with each called shot. Push too hard or get too excited and your shots will be pounded all over the table. A steady hand is useful throughout the game.

What makes this game worthy is how fun it can be. Albeit the soundtrack leaves a lot to be desired, this game is fun to play and can be addictive even for the least interested billiards fan. On the other hand, this is a must have for fans of the genre. Q-Ball is definitely worth a look if you are at least a bit interested in the wonderful world of billiards.