SMASH COURT TENNIS PRO TOURNAMENT (PS2)


Heaps of fun, but not exactly Pro...

By TOM FAHEY

PlayStation's newest in the tennis category has hit the shelves in the form of Namco's Smash Court Tennis.

Rafter, Sampras, Hingis, Kournikova and many others are yours for the controlling when competing in the US Open, Wimbledon, or perhaps just a friendly doubles match.

So, for all those sports fans out there, ready your palms with strapping tape and bandages because this new title will have you playing for hours, and there's nothing worse than delicate hands suffering from blisters!

The game engine for SCTPT, in a few words, is quite good. Now for the extended version...

The movements that the players execute when obeying commands are very realistic. From the serves, to the drop shots, to the overhead smashes, the motion capture has really belted the nail on the head.

The game engine also incorporates several different player types. For example, you can have all rounder players or perhaps a net player. Their statistics will differ, which provides a good variety in gameplay so that you can use the player that best suits your style.

As for the players (and very disappointingly) you only have eight to choose form. The final cut is Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter and Yevgeny Kafelnikov for the blokes.

The women consist of Lindsay Davenport, Martina Hingis, Monica Seles, and the one who can't play tennis to save herself, but still looks fit in a mini skirt: Anna Kournikova!

There are also various fictional characters to choose from for your entertainment, but it's a shame Namco couldn't include some more of the real-life hot-shots...

At first, the game you will encounter seems very easy and far too simple for long term entertainment. However, when you dive deep into one of the tournaments, the stakes will quickly rise and you'll find yourself out-played.

However, when you notice what the controls are truly capable of, you'll need to put them to full use just to stand a chance. Smash-the-controller-to-pieces-Court-Tennis is very hard. So be warned! I recommend some training before taking on Sampras in the US Open, for instance.

Now, these controls consist of only three buttons for four different shots.

You have the powerful top spins, the slices, and the drops and lobs in one. Depending on the direction of the analog stick, your shots can be strategically placed around the court, as well.

You will soon uncover a basic technique to win early on, but a true player will realise the potential of the controls on offer and perhaps even rule the court on all difficulties.

The graphics in SCTPT are quite pleasing to the eye, but just lack a something or other. The 3D models match the characters quite well, but the appearance seems quite simple, lacking that further quality in detail.

I'm not trying to be too picky, but the players could be better. Each shot leaves a trail of colour behind it so that it is easier to follow the ball, which I reckon is a good idea and doesn't ruin the feel of a simulation.

The sound is nice - well matched and realistic sounds lead to a better feel for the game. Indeed - the crowd's roar is a satisfying reward for the victory of a long rally!

While Smash Court Tennis Pro Tournament isn't the best game on the sports shelf, it is far from the worst. If you're a tennis fan or sports fanatic, I would have no problem recommending it.

Also, if you a seeking one of the hardest games since Mega-Man X (take my word for it!!) then this will surely please. All things considered, a middle of the range game.

ORIGINALITY 85%
SOUND/GRAPHICS 80%
PLAYABILITY 80%
ADDICTION 75%
ENJOYMENT 85%