Smash Court Tennis adopts a very cute and pretty unspectacular visual style. Whilst there’s no visual whiz-bang, the game has been superbly designed with over 20 cute characters from which to select. Each court is nicely designed with its own unique look and feel. But it’s not graphics that make this game, it’s the insanely addictive gameplay.
The game boasts an impressive range of shots – topspin, flat, lobs, volleys, inside-outs kick-serves – and yet is still incredibly easy to get into. Serving is a good example of the beautifully simple yet precise method of control employed by the game. One press of the button throws the ball into the air and then by pressing a second a variety of serves can be executed. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds. You have to time hitting the ball at the optimum moment as it drops. It’s easy to serve but to serve really well takes practice.
This is an example of a game which is really, really, really fun to play. So easy to get into and yet so hard to master, Smash Court Tennis tantalises players and keeps interest levels high. The computer players all fairly competent and provide a good challenge. There’s options for doubles as well as single play and, of course, there’s the all important two player mode. Scenes of chaos have erupted in the Games Domain offices as we’ve been recreating our own mini Wimbledon. The variety of shots that can be pulled off by clever D-pad positioning make this game a great multiplayer experience and, quite simply, a stunning example of how great gameplay should be put together.
As with the visuals, Smash Court Tennis’ audio is unspectacular but well implemented. A good range of tunes and some decent sound effects help to add to the overall playing experience. Even more value is added to the game by a number of secrets which can be unlocked as you make progress. Fancy playing as some of the Tekken 3 characters? Win a few tournaments and you’ll be well on your way!
Anna Kournikova’s Smash Court Tennis lacks the visual impact of some other Playstation games, but this doesn’t really matter as it is so much fun to play. Plenty of options and those interesting secrets help to keep the interest level high. If you enjoy fun games then check this out!
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