Virtua Tennis Mobile Edition

There have been many tennis games which have graced our screens over the years, but none quite so familiar or arguably as enjoyable as the Virtua Tennis brand.

So when I was given the opportunity to play Virtua Tennis Mobile Edition, I was thrilled and a little uncertain as to how good this handheld version will compare to its bigger and more powerful counterparts. Fortunately my uncertainty was quashed almost instantly as I began to pick the player from the available combinations in the opening screen. Following this, I was presented with the quick to use menu option where I could pick from playing a tournament, versus or training match.

The tournament mode consists of playing a best of three games against an AI opponent. As you play the different tournaments the opponents get tougher and as you progress through the rounds, again they get tougher still. The aim of the tournament is to gain as many top places as possible (by defeating three opponents). For managing to complete these tournaments successfully, you get rewarded not just with the acclaimed title but also the prize money (which adds to your score).

The prize money is essential in the development of your player. By going to the shop menu, you can pick from a variety of items which will help boost your player in different ways. For example you can pick from a shirt, shorts, racket, shoes and partner. The basic options may look good but don’t tend to improve your player in any of their attributes so other than looking good, they are a bit of a waste of time and money. However by scrolling your way through these items you will uncover ones which will improve your abilities. Whether it’s the power, angle, reaction, speed or skill of the player, you’ll see how they improve your player in a visual indicator on the bottom of the screen.

The fun doesn’t stop there either, as I said, you can pick to play against an opponent in a quick game. Each of these opponents vary in their difficulty and style of play. Some will be all-rounders, others will be much more power based players and so on. So without any hassle you’ll be able to find your match and give yourself a challenge or a bit of a warm-up challenge only in preparation for the real thing.

The training mode is where you can improve not just in terms of your own abilities but more importantly, the skills and abilities of your character on the court. By playing an unlimited round of tennis, you’ll see your attributes raise (and fall) with almost every stroke of the ball. By doing things well, your player will get better and better and will take these skills onto the next proper game you play.

Another nice touch about this game is the option to change camera angle during play. So if you like the end on shot from just over the shoulder or directly behind the player or even a television like angle, you’ve got it all within a key press or two.

In the end then, if you enjoy your arcade style tennis action then this game is certainly going to serve up an ace!

Rating 83%

Positives

Good control over the player and shots which are pretty lifelike

Good graphics and camera controls

You can improve your player as you desire

Great for quick games and tournaments

Negatives

Repetitive and the competition can be pretty tough at times

The controls are a little fiddly to pull off at times – especially on smaller keypads