Mario Tennis Fever Review: Serving Up Excitement
The Mario Tennis franchise has been entertaining gamers for over 25 years. The latest installment, Mario Tennis Fever, builds on the success of its predecessor, 2018’s Mario Tennis Aces. This new addition brings exciting gameplay features and diverse modes for players to enjoy.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Mario Tennis Fever retains the casual-friendly gameplay that long-time fans appreciate. From the first serve, matches feel like strategic battles. Players must cleverly use top spins, slices, and lobs to outmaneuver their opponents. The game features 38 unique characters, each belonging to one of six archetypes.
- Character Variety: Characters range from powerhouses like Bowser to speedy players like Yoshi.
- Balanced Play: Unforced errors are rare, making positioning critical to winning points.
This approach enhances the tactical aspect of tennis, as players aim to control the court. One of the standout features is the introduction of Fever Shots. These powerful moves come with special effects influenced by the racket equipped by the player. While they add excitement to the game, they do not disrupt overall balance.
Fever Shots and Strategy
Fever Shots can be potent, leading to an engaging risk/reward dynamic. Players must decide when to use these shots, as they can be countered if returned before hitting the ground. For those who prefer a more traditional match experience, Fever Shots can be disabled.
Adventure and Game Modes
The game offers various modes, including Adventure and Wonder Court matches. The Adventure mode presents a whimsical storyline and various challenges, reminiscent of role-playing games. Although it has a slow start, it eventually evolves into a fun exploration of creative tasks and boss encounters.
- Adventure Mode: Features simple lore and varied gameplay elements.
- Wonder Court: Involves collecting Wonder Seeds for special in-match effects.
While the Wonder Court mode has potential, some effects feel limited. In contrast, Trial Towers offer greater excitement. Here, players face multiple opponents in quick matches, ensuring high replayability due to ever-changing challenges.
Online Experience and Customization
Mario Tennis Fever also includes a robust online component. Players can customize various aspects of their gameplay experience. Testing the pre-launch servers revealed a mostly smooth online experience, although minor performance issues occurred on occasion.
Ultimately, Mario Tennis Fever offers a well-rounded experience. While it may not be groundbreaking, it successfully combines familiar gameplay elements with new features. Players of all skill levels can enjoy this fun, accessible take on tennis, ensuring that Mario’s love for the sport continues to thrive.
