Virtual Pool
Virtual Pool is a 1995 pool simulation developed by Celeris, and it earned a reputation as an unusually realistic and authentic billiards game. It aimed to faithfully recreate the physics, feel, and strategy of real cue sports on the personal computer.
Players line up shots with full control over aim, spin, and power, using a free-moving 3D camera to walk around the table and plan positional play much as a real player would, rather than relying on simple overhead aiming aids. Its accurate ball physics, intuitive mouse-driven controls, and range of game types across the pool disciplines made it a favorite among billiards enthusiasts and a lasting benchmark for the genre, praised for actually helping players understand real technique.
The series continued with several later editions on newer platforms, adding new game modes and improved visuals, and it remains a key reference point for realistic cue-sports simulation.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Virtual Pool, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
| Alternative | Price | Steam Deck | Runs on |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pool Nation Indie | € 9,99 | Steam Deck Playable | PC |
| Pure Pool | € 11,99 | Steam Deck Playable | PC |
Pool Nation Indie
€ 9,99An indie pool and billiards simulation with trick shots and physics detail.
Pool Nation runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch.
Pure Pool
€ 11,99A polished billiards game with realistic physics and online play.
Pure Pool runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch.
Sign in or create an account to add an alternative or vote.