What is the ruling on playing online billiards with friends?

Playing billiards is not permissible if it involves money. If it is free from that, then it is permissible, provided the following conditions are observed: that it does not distract from the remembrance of Allah and the obligatory prayers; that the players adhere to the teachings of Islam and avoid conflict, cursing, and deception; and that the game has a benefit and is not merely a waste of time. Furthermore, mixing between genders and the uncovering of 'awrah (parts of the body that must be covered) must be avoided when playing it in clubs.