Game, set and match to Sega (Virtua Tennis (DC))

Name: Chev

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Product:	Virtua Tennis (DC)
Date:	30/07/01 (30 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Simply the best four player game on the market, Surprisingly good single player mode, Even better than the arcade version

Disadvantages: Might have to invest in a couple of new pads for multiplayer fun, You won't get the most out of it if you've got no mates

As a big fan of the arcade version of Virtua Tennis, I guess you could say that my expectations were unjustly high for a game being released on a home system. However, I was more than happy when I got my copy home and turned on my small white box.

Virtua Tennis on the Dreamcast is an absolute delight. The term "arcade-perfect graphics" is a somewhat overused phrase in video game circles, but in this case, you really wouldn't be able to tell the difference. The sound is also good, with that superbly naff and over-the-top arcade music recreated in all it's glory. And the playability? Well, as with any sports game, the real test is the multi-player longevity - and this little beauty passes with flying colours. Superb as a two player game, Virtua Tennis really comes into it's own when you get down to the nitty gritty - four player doubles. I defy you to set up a game with three of your mates and not become hooked instantly.

The real beauty of this game is the ease in which a newcomer (either to computer games, or indeed the sport of tennis) can pick up and play. Use the direction stick to move your player around, the A button for all ground strokes, and the B button to lob. Sounds like a limited number of shots? Don't be fooled - depending on where the ball is in relation to the player, and which direction you are holding the d-pad, you can pull off a stunning array of strokes.

So, what have you learned so far? Virtua Tennis is a great multiplayer arcade conversion. Dig a little deeper though, and you'll find this is no ordinary conversion. The single player mode is outstanding, with a number of tournaments to take part in, and coaching courses to attend - all to help you move up the rankings and ultimately earn more money. The more money you earn, the more players, tournaments and player outfits you can unlock.

Talking of players, there are eight real life players to keep the Tennis buffs happy. Want to
play as Britain's favourite flop Tim Henman? Go ahead. Fancy a stint as demon clay court specialist Carlos Moya? It's all there for you. As well as the eight professionals, there are eight more made-up characters to unlock, all with their own special attributes.

A game jam-packed with features then, but as with all of these types of games, the real fun comes with multiplayer action. So take my advice - grab three more pads, invite some mates round and have hours of fun on far and away the best multiplayer game on the Dreamcast, and arguably on any platform whatsoever.

Summary: