| Introduction
The sport of tennis is well represented on the GBA
and seems to be a particular favorite of almost every
developer. Suffice to say, the genre has had varying
degrees of success and for every one Tennis title that's
fun and innovative, there's at least two that don't
even warrant a review. French publisher Microids are
hardly prolific when it comes to the GBA, so it's a
bit of a puzzle as to why they would want to release
a tennis game. After all, there are so many of them
out there, and any new ones that come along will have
to bear the burden of being critically compared to either
the best or worst of them. Hopefully though, Tennis
Masters Series has what it takes to make it to the
finals.
GamePlay
Most people reading this review would have probably
played or watched a tennis game, so I won't waste time
explaining how tennis is played. I'll concentrate instead
on the options that are available in the game, which
I must say are impressive.
I would suggest though
that players enter the Exhibition mode first, as this
allows you to choose your opponent, court and location
and also gives you a feel for the controls and performance
of the individual players. For those that can't wait,
then the highlight is the actual Tennis Masters Series, a selection of
nine different events, which eventually lead you to
the Masters Cup.
Multiplayer is supported but unfortunately this is yet
another in the growing number of titles that require
more than a single copy of the game to enjoy. This is
a shame really as there's some real scope here for two,
three and even four player games which would have both
extended and enhanced the gameplay for everyone. You
can still play a doubles match in one of the many different
gaming modes but it is entirely reliant on the game's
AI, which is generally either too professional or incredibly
clumsy. The save feature is a little better as it not
only allows you to save after a game or tournament but
at any time you wish thanks to its battery backup.
Controls
I must admit that when I started playing this game (without reading the instructions), I was a little disappointed with the simplistic feel
and controls, as the level of gameplay didn't appear to match the advanced
presentation.
A quick read of the manual, however, rectified this completely and I soon
learned that under the good-looking exterior of this game is a control system
that gives you the freedom to execute the intricate shots of a tennis pro.
You
can for example, control the speed and direction of your serve or even add some
topspin to your returns. If you want, you can also slice or lob the ball at your
opponents, which gives the game the realistic and strategical elements of a real tennis game.
It all takes practice of course, and the other players can be tough but any
tennis title that allows you such an array of moves is well worth that extra bit
of learning time.
Graphics
Tennis Masters Series features some of the most spectacular
graphics I've ever encountered and the whole thing plays
out like a televised tournament. This is apparent from
the intro, consisting of several full screen motion
captured animations, which I'm almost certain, hasn't
been seen on a handheld before. You'll be pleased to
note too that the high standards continue in the actual
game.
Players and fans of the sport will be treated to
some of the most realistic tennis players ever seen
on a handheld system. The various menu systems are also
incredible and the attention to detail is truly outstanding.
The courts and various environments complete what is,
visually at least, an almost faultless interpretation
of the game.
Sound & Music
As with the graphics, audio too is well implemented
in every department. The intro, for example, features
a great rock soundtrack that syncs nicely with the visuals.
There's also some very clear samples of the umpire announcing
scores, which combined with the crowd and tennis sounds,
work well to produce a very realistic atmosphere.
There seems to be little that hasn't been considered
during the application of sound effects and music to
this title and other developers should note that this
is the standard that discerning gamers are expecting
and deserve.
Final Comments
Tennis Masters Series is really a great game and
I wouldn't be surprised if fans of the excellent Mario
Tennis find it just as enjoyable. Overall, presentation
is outstanding, and the clever use of extensive motion
capture works well to generate an incredible illusion
of realism. Did I mention that it also has a great control
system? Well, it does! Coupled with the wealth of moves
on offer, you'd be hard pressed to find another tennis
game that actually relies on skill rather than button
bashing to win or loose a game. In addition to all this,
you also get a great deal of gameplay for your money
with enough courts, players and championships to keep
you going for some time to come.
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