Hot Shots Tennis

 

I'm not that familiar with the Hot Shots series, but I get the idea it's designed to be a family-fun type of game.  My first impression is that it's a cross between a Nintendo game and Japanese anime, with the cartoon kid characters and the "let's be friends" theme.  It's not your daddy's sports game, but it still could be fun.

 

There isn't a lot in terms of modes.  Basically, you have training, "free play," and then a challenge mode where you have to win "X" amount of matches to move up in level and unlock characters, locales, and so forth.  There's no world ranking system here...  Singles and doubles are available, though.

 

On the court, the action isn't bad.  It moves at a slower pace, but it plays a pretty good game of tennis.  You have lob shots, slice shots, smash shots, top spin shots, volleys, and three different kind of serves.  They're all pretty easy to execute, provided your feet are in the right place, and you time the stroke just right.  You use the stick to place the ball where you'd like against your opponent.  The nice thing is, the game punishes you for bad positioning and timing.  And, if you come in to the net at the wrong time, you'll pay.  Your opponent will work you as well, if you're not chasing them around the court first, just like real tennis. 

 

At first, I thought I was going to need to break out the manual to compete, as I dropped my first 5 games.  However, I won the next four before dropping the set.  With a little more practice, it will be fairly easy to win consistently.  I'd imagine unlocking more opponents will pose a bit of a challenge, but that remains to be seen. 

 

Balls are hit into the net, hit out of bounds, and downright missed.  Angles and location are paramount, as is your strategy for attacking your opponent.  Beneath the "kiddie" atmosphere is a solid game of tennis, assuming the challenge level holds up. 

 

It doesn't appear to be a very deep game, and I would say that my first impression is that it's designed primarily for kids.  However, that doesn't mean that it won't provide a few hours of fun for adults.  Just don't expect a deeper tennis sim like Top Spin.

 

Much more to come, and of course, these thoughts are subject to change as I play more! 

 

Kevin

 

I just got back from CC with my copy. I'll try to post some impressions tonight or tomorrow if anyone's interested.

 

Your wife didn't mind?

 

LOL...  Just a swingin', baby!

 

You didn't know I was into midgets, did you?!

 

Kevin

 

A minor complaint I have is that there aren't enough balls hit into the net, and I've yet to see a double-fault.  Otherwise, it's very good.

 

I played my first doubles match, too, and loved it!  That Ashley can play, LOL...

 

Kevin