Previous Next

If you like to watch and play tennis, then the likelihood is that you will enjoy playing Roland Garros French Open. This game of tennis incorporates much of what you would expect during any tennis open championships. Depending on your patriotism you can choose the English Open or, for variation, you may decide to play tennis Roland Garros's way, the US Championship or the Australian Cup. You can also choose the character you want to be.

The scoring of the game is displayed on the screen, which keeps you in a competitive spirit - if you see that your opponent has the advantage, it makes you try harder and work up a bit of a sweat trying to catch up and ultimately beat them. However, the famous cries of 'deuce' and 'out' are missing from the game, which makes you want to shout out the scores yourself, just for the sake of authenticity.

The game is played in exactly the game way as a real tennis match, although obviously you do not have such good control over your racket, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, to do backhand moves. Oddly, it appears to be easier to hit balls when your partner serves them rather than when the service is yours. It takes a fair bit of practice before you get used to the functions of the buttons and the speed needed to position yourself in order to hit the ball.

Graphically, the game is fairly good. All characters are clearly depicted, with the necessary amount of detail. The changes in the setting when you play different opens ensure that you are less likely to become bored too.

Roland Garros French Open has the potential to become tedious and frustrating if you let it. However, if you are a keen tennis player you will be used to the repetitiveness and will therefore find this game a challenge, particularly if you choose the highest difficulty setting.

Hmm... not bad. Your ultimate reward if you win any of the tennis opens in this game is the cup... and unthinkable amounts of cash no doubt (or is that just in the real game?).

However, there are many hurdles to overcome before you're rewarded for your efforts and successes, so this game is about practice and perseverance. You'll have to work hard to become the best Game Boy tennis player.

Graphics 60%
Clear characters.

Sound 40%
Rather grating.

Playability 60%
You want tennis, you get tennis!

Lastability 80%
Takes a fair while to complete.

Overall 60%
You'll be "court" up in the rallying.