Zzap


On-Court Tennis

Categories: Review: Software
Publisher: Firebird
Machine: Commodore 64/128

 
Published in Zzap #32

On-Court Tennis

Tennis simulations aren't that common these days, so this Activision re-release is quite notable.

There are a decent set of options, including a choice of three surfaces, the chance to play the best of three or five sets, four different computer opponents and two player or demo modes. The control allows a wide variety of shots, from smashes and lobs to slices and hard topspins. Service is also very realistic, with similarly varied options.

Having said how close to the real thing this is, it is also just as difficult to play, and it can be infuriating when, for instance, the ball bounces under your racket. Sports fans should give this a look, but I think the gameplay might well prove a little too frustrating for the average user.