Objective
Novuss, often referred to as "Baltic Billiards," is a game of skill where the goal is to pocket all of your pucks into the opposite pocket of the board using a wooden cue, before your opponent does.
Game Components
- A square board with four corner pockets.
- Two sets of eight pucks each, in contrasting colors (light and dark).
- Wooden cue.
- A striker stone.
Setup
- Positioning the Board: Place the board on a stable surface accessible to all players.
- Choosing Pucks: Each player chooses a set of pucks, either light or dark.
- Place a striker stone in each player's pocket.
- Decide who will start.
Basic Rules
- Starting Setup: Line up the pucks along the baseline of your respective side.
- Opening Shot: The starting player shoots the striker stone with the cue to pocket one or more of their pucks.
- Turns: Players alternate turns, whereas a player continues their turn as long as they successfully pocket their pucks.
- Goal: The aim is to be the first to pocket all of your pucks.
Special Rules
- Penalties: Pocketing an opponent’s puck or knocking one off the board usually results in penalties (commonly this means the opponent's puck is repositioned on the baseline).
- Strategy: Players may strategically aim to block or pocket opponent's pucks as a tactical maneuver.
Game Strategy
- Precision Shooting: Accurate strokes are essential; practice different stroke strengths and impacts.
- Defense: Project and hinder your opponent’s easy shots by strategically placing your pucks.
- Speed Control: Often a gentle stroke is more beneficial than a strong one, allowing for better control.
Enjoy playing Novuss! Focus on skill and tactical thinking to master the game.
