Tennis ball sized gem in the Rough! Seldom is it these day that a game with such great gameplay, looks as good as
-PRESENTATION-
A snazzy menu system lets you navigate the game modes with ease, and the great TV style shot replays adds a level of realism which is much appreciated. If there was one thing kind of bummed me out would be the inability to turn of the display and just play with the screen free of the the various stats. - GAMEPLAY -
I'd have to say that this is one of the funnest games i have ever played, the gameplay is so streamlined and smooth that it almost plays too well (if thats possible.) The first thing about the gameplay was the amazing physics, you actually feel like your the one hitting the ball, and not many more game moments are as satisfying as smashing the ball in your opponents face. Its simple enough enough to make it accessible to the youngest or oldest of players, and feels deep enough to please even the most technical of gamers.
With the exception of 1 or 2 of the twelve mini games included in the game, they make for a great party game or even if your by your self, there fun through and through. - GRAPHICS -
I almost couldn't believe how smooth the animations were, from the simple bouncing of the ball when your player is getting ready to server, to some of the maniacal mini game animations, from something as simple as the ball hitting the ground to a player diving for the ball in a last ditch effort to save the match, they all are smooth and hitch free (a very steady framerate helps in this department.)
The texture in the game all look top notch and the courts are beautiful and vibrant to say the least, the faces of a few of the professional player could use a little work, but other than that the game is a visual masterpiece.
- SOUND - Not a whole lot going on with the sound, its a solid upbeat soundtrack reminiscent of many lighthearted games. The umpire and announcer call are a nice touch and sound crisp and clean, all the pros talk to you via text and it would have been nice to have their actual voices but its still works well enough. The various sounds in the minigames from explosions to barrels falling to the ground all sound great and in no way electronic or forced like alot of games.
- OVERALL -
With great pick up and play properties and a full fledged deep story mode, and tons of fun distractions on the side you won't go wrong with Virtua Tennis 3. Not to mention its 10 dollars cheaper price tag makes it a great next gen game for only 50 buck. Even if your not remotely interested in tennis this game is loads of fun for everyone.
With the harder difficulties providing a great challenge for anyone looking for it and the offline multiplayer is some of the funnest around.
A great purchase for anyone looking for a fun and well rounded game.