Author Information
Menu
Navigation
Scribol
|
by TheDCD on 05.31.11  Virtua Tennis 4 shines brightly on both the Xbox 360 and PS3, thanks to the high-definition visuals, the option to play with motion controllers, and the bevy of content available, including mini-games and an enlarged Career Mode that takes your tennis playing skills to new heights. With the Wii version, some might think it’s merely an afterthought, especially considering the system on its last legs with Nintendo’s forthcoming console announcement at E3. But surprise, it’s not that bad a tennis game at all.
Like the other versions of the game, Virtua Tennis 4 has plenty to choose from in the content department. A variety of mini-games are available, including ones where you hit objects like cards and plates, as well as guiding baby chicks home as they scatter across the course. (Granted, we can’t imagine a tennis court being built next to a farm, but whatever.) In addition, the game’s expanded Career Mode will take you all over the world, facing challengers, completing skill-enhancing tests and building your fanbase. There are times the “roll of the dice” method doesn’t pay off, as you miss crucial stops along the way of the tour. But overall, it’s a much better approach than the one in Virtua Tennis 2009. As for the gameplay, you use the Wii remote by itself, a perplexing decision considering that VT 4 would be the type of game to support either the Classic Controller or the Nunchuk. Nevertheless, it works moderately well, as you can keep strong control over your character and guide back incoming shots in a number of ways. There’s also a Motion Play mode where you can use the Wii remote like a real tennis racket, and it isn’t bad, but that’s the only place you can opt for motion control – a bummer when you want to take it with you in Career Mode.
Surprisingly enough, Virtua Tennis 4 also has online play, but it’s barely functional. Getting into a match is painless enough, but then staying in the match is a process that needs to be worked through, mainly due to disconnects and players oddly dropping out. Once you do get a match going, though, it’s fun. And don’t forget the game supports off-line multiplayer as well. Virtua Tennis 4 looks fantastic for a Wii sports title. The smooth graphics translate well to the system, complete with player animations and great-looking courts. Granted, some of the facial features aren’t so realistic, but whatever. It’s a nice piece of work from Sega. On the other hand, the sound needs work, between the questionably bad music (at this rate, just hit the mute button) and lackluster sound effects.
Despite the fact that Virtua Tennis has seen better days (over on the Dreamcast, anyhow), Virtua Tennis 4 is a worthwhile addition to the series, between its various modes and its (mostly) enjoyable gameplay. Pick up your Wii remote and prepare to make a racket.
|
||
Add to N4G
