Top Ranking Tennis (GB) (Top Ranking Tennis (GB))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Top Ranking Tennis (GB)
Date:	05/04/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Gameplay

Disadvantages: Dated Graphics

"Top Ranking Tennis" is a video game released to the Gameboy console in 1993. While this game was released for the original Gameboy system, I found it to be working on the later Gameboy Color though the display was in a slightly greenish tinge during testing. I was not able to immediately find an age rating for it but would suggest it to be suitable for all ages.

In game chronology, "Top Ranking Tennis" follows after the original "Tennis" title. It is said to have made considerable improvements over the original game, offering the player more challenge and variation within gameplay. Each computer opponent reacts differently to certain shots and this would likely offer the player an extended appeal due to the constant differences which await him or her. The developers also implemented an interesting technique within the game which allows the player to press the function keys, start and select, when executing different shots alongside the typical "A" and "B" keys. As the "Start" key is used to make a shot the player must tap the up arrow twice if he or she wishes to pause the game.

The graphics are satisfactory when considering the year of release. There is some element of pixelation in both the tennis ball and tennis court lines but this could be seen as acceptable due to the Gameboy being in its primitive stages at the time. Character detailing is likewise acceptable and featured sharp, well connected lines when drawing and even went as far as to create a white headband against black hair. The audio is somewhat repetitive in the sound effects, there is a simple "pop" with each ball landing, but this could be expected.

I do enjoy this title and would be happy to recommend it to prospective buyers. It is somewhat standard as far as tennis and other sport themed games are but does offer some interesting implements and difficult settings.

Summary: Thumbs up