That sloped-table
ball game.
Explained.

What is it called?

Star Cluster Ball and UNC Ball are useful starting points for finding the sloped-table sport. You’ll also see the Chinese name 星罗球 (Xing Luo Qiu), and streams and rules under the YoTyan name.

Those search terms can lead you to different communities, tables and rule explanations. A familiar-looking table is not enough to establish which scoring system a particular stream uses. Start with the creator’s description or pinned rules.

Disclosure: this guide was prepared with AI assistance by Zyntra, the developer of Z Ball: 1v1 Tilt Shot Arena. Our Android game is an independent interpretation; we are not affiliated with or endorsed by UNC-BALL, YoTyan or the physical-sport channels.

Why do the scores look different?

The basic viewing idea is approachable: players aim to settle balls into scoring slots. The details are where different guides diverge.

YoTyan’s published rules describe three seven-slot plates and twelve balls per player. The plates have base values of 1, 2 and 3. Certain placements earn bonuses or another shot. A ball resting on a plate without occupying a slot is a “bridge ball,” with its own follow-up situations.

The Star Cluster Ball beginner guide uses terms such as Astrolabe Positions, Chains and Grouping. It describes adjacent same-colour balls creating bonus opportunities, while grouped balls can affect the space available for later shots. Its example scoring and turn rules differ from YoTyan’s explanation.

Use one guide for one match. Don’t combine the points from one table’s explanation with the bonus or turn rules from another. If a score surprises you, check which slot was filled, whether neighbouring balls changed its value, and whether the broadcast includes a bonus.

Three things to watch for

1. The final resting place. A ball that touches a scoring plate may not finish in a scoring slot. Watch where it settles before counting the shot.
2. The next opportunity. A placement can change the angle or space for the next ball. Looking one shot ahead makes the tactical choices easier to follow.
3. Who keeps the turn. A bonus shot can make a sequence look like free shooting. Keep the stream’s own turn rules beside you while learning.

If you want to play on a physical table, seek a local venue or a maker’s verified plans. This article is not a construction specification: table angle, ball size and target layout should come from the particular design you intend to use.