Total Game Boy


Pro Pool

Publisher: Codemasters
Machine: Game Boy Color

 
Published in Total Game Boy Issue 10

Pro Pool

Get ready to hustle!

Ever wandered what people get up to in the back room of your local pub? If you sneaked in, you would probably find them playing pool! Pool is played on a slightly smaller table than snooker, and there are many different variations on the rules. This new simulation from Codemasters includes loads of different pool games including American eight ball, UK rules and Killer, plus you can play against Game Boy Color or a friend using the link-cable.

In single-player, you can challenge the players inside the various venues for cash to raise your ranking and reach hustler status. This is very tough as the opponents become better later on, and will hardly miss a shot. You have a fair amount of control over the direction and power of your shot, but it is difficult to put spin on the ball making it tough to line up your next pot. The default game is usually American eight ball, which means you must try to pot the eight ball using a rebound technique.

Pro Pool

Pro Pool is fairly fun, although it takes a while to work out which ball you are supposed to hit. Luckily jammy rebounds and the odd well-played shot will see you winning a few games and advancing through the levels. It does get a little repetitive, but provides good entertainment - particularly in two-player mode.

Second Opinion

It's not very often you see a pool sim on the Game Boy Color and this one is a fun and entertaining game for a while.

The graphics and sound are fine (you couldn't expect much for a pool game) but the game does get a little repetitive after a while. Being a shark is fun - but you'll soon find yourself getting bored!

Verdict

Graphics 80%
Balls and sticks.

Sound 40%
Rinkle tinkle.

Playability 60%
Boing, boing, boing.

Lastability 60%
Can get repetitive.

Overall 70%
A good attempt at Pool!