1. I like playing billiards on a pocketless table.

Question

2. I like playing four-ball billiards with a pocketless table.

3. I like playing three-ball billiards on a pocketless table.
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Does #1 mean either #2 or #3?

Answer 1

1. I like playing billiards on a pocketless table.

2. I like playing four-ball billiards on a pocketless table with four balls.

3. I like playing three-ball billiards on a pocketless table with three balls.

Answer 2

1) is related to 3), 3) is more specific to the game.
2) implies the table is playing with you. In some pool halls, the tables often are seemingly playing against me: They are warped.

Answer 3

LOL, Bob!

Yes -- 1 and 3 are similar. 2 should not be used!