Est. 1998
Playing Out of Control Gaming

Retro reviews, vintage hardware, classic PC builds, and modern ways to keep old games alive.

Home › Games › virtual-pool › Virtual Pool 2
Virtual Pool 2
The Vault · 1999

Virtual Pool 2

The pool sim that actually helps you hustle in real life.
DeveloperCeleris
PublisherInterplay
Released1999
virtual-poolWindows 95/98SimulationSports
Mouse Cue ControlVideo TutorialsMultiplayerDirect3D SupportRealistic Physics128 AI Opponents

Virtual Pool 2 is a pool simulation video game developed by Celeris and published by Interplay for Windows 95/98. Released in 1999, it is the sequel to the highly acclaimed Virtual Pool (1995). The game expands upon its predecessor's realistic physics engine and mouse-as-cue control scheme, delivering an authentic billiards experience that can genuinely improve a player's real-world game. The simulation accurately models all major shot types, including massé, English, draw, and jump shots, with detailed tracking lines available in practice mode to illustrate ball behavior. Virtual Pool 2 includes nine game types: 8-ball, 9-ball, Rotation, Straight Pool, and five new additions, 3-ball, 6-ball, 10-ball, Bank Pool, and One Pocket. It features 128 computer-controlled opponents with varying skill ratings, a self-rating system for the player, and a tournament mode with beginner, amateur, and professional difficulty levels. Table characteristics such as speed, pocket size, cut, and rail cushioning are fully adjustable. The game supports resolutions up to 1600x1200 and hardware acceleration via Direct3D for improved performance. Video tutorials teach shot techniques, strategies, and trick shots, while a built-in music player allows custom CD playback. Multiplayer is supported via modem or network. Virtual Pool 2 was praised for its depth, realism, and polished interface, cementing its status as one of the finest pool simulations ever created. It later became available on GOG.com as part of a collection, preserving access on modern systems.

How to Play TodayYour options for running this game in 2026
Original Hardware
Originally shipped on CD-ROM for Windows 95. Used copies appear on eBay for a few dollars. Requires a Pentium, 8 MB RAM, 4 MB disk space, CD-ROM, and DirectX 5-compatible video and sound. A 3D accelerator dramatically improves performance at high resolutions.
Modern Re-release
Available on GOG.com as part of the Virtual Pool collection, fully preconfigured for modern Windows. It frequently goes on sale for under $5. The GOG release includes the manual and original video tutorials.
Emulation / Other Options
Runs well on modern Windows via compatibility mode. The GOG version is the easiest way to play, as it bundles all necessary patches. For original CD owners, use Windows compatibility mode set to Windows 95 and limit frame rate to avoid physics glitches. dgVoodoo2 can be used as a Direct3D wrapper for improved rendering.