Archer Maclean Pool

Fancy a game of pool & a few beers?

Archer Maclean Pool was released in 1992 and is pretty much Jimmy White’s Whirlwind Snooker, but (erm) pool. Snooker is alright, but a game needs to be entertaining, and I find it a struggle to stay awake. Then I thought to myself, what about pool, and I knew I hadn't played Archer Maclean’s Pool for years. So, let's fix that.

Pool is an exciting, fast-paced pub game that's nothing like the dullness of snoozeville snooker. American and English variations are playable with the added option to play tournaments or to set up trick shots. If you've played Whirlwind, then you'll instantly take to its UI, but I doubt any newcomers will struggle as it's instinctive and easy to grasp. A cynic might say that they're the same games with different balls ;)

Wanna see a cute animation from one of my games? Good, here ya' go then...

What a whiz I am at this game! Go on, watch me clear up lol

Pool is illegal without a beer! #fact

Graphics are... well... it's a table with balls on it, so there isn't much to drool over, but the framerates are smooth and prove just what 8MHz can do. The 3D engine works well with fantastic first-person-like views when lining up a shot. Let's not forget the game's comical side with taunting balls, evil-eyed fans, or the flies on the table!! Sound effects are nice and varied, with clinks, plops, and oddly humorous cue-chalking moments.

Play this using the mouse to alter the viewing angle, but don't forget to chalk the cue before setting up the shot with the right amount of power, spin, and direction. There is a range of computer opponents from amateur to godlike, so it's best to practice before taking on the pros (they are incredibly tough!!)

What I love about this game is the superb design, which feels natural and realistic. After your first shot, you realise how superior the hidden mathematical calculations are that make the physics appear so believable. There are near-limitless possibilities for each shot you make, which is quite incredible.

Pool might be a serious game, but that hasn't stopped the balls from taking the Micky...

You know from the very start this is gonna be good. Then the balls get very rude!!

The CryptO'pinion?

Sure, this game is best enjoyed with friends in a pub with heavy double vision, but let’s be honest, we’re all getting old, and the wife wouldn’t be pleased if we came home in a state. So let’s stick to the virtual game, which surprisingly comes in as a close second. I can’t imagine anyone complaining because it’s superb and one of the best Atari ST games out there. It’s fast, entertaining, addictive, and completely faultless.

Download the floppies at Atari Legend.
Hard drive version by 8BitChip!!