September 2nd 2024.
Tennis season may be over for the pros, but for video game enthusiasts, it's just getting started. The highly anticipated successor to AO Tennis, Tiebreak, has finally hit the shelves. Developed by the Australian Big Ant Studios, known for their sports simulations, this game is the official game of the ATP and WTA. With a roster of over 120 real players, including cover star Novak Djokovic, Tiebreak has a lot to offer for tennis fans.
But before we dive into the game, let's address the elephant in the room - Djokovic's controversial views. While we may not agree with his opinions, there's no denying that he is an exceptional player. And Tiebreak recognizes this by dedicating a game mode to his past glories. Players can relive some of his most iconic matches against the likes of Federer, Nadal, and Murray.
Aside from Djokovic, Tiebreak also boasts the official licenses of the ATP and WTA, giving players access to a wide range of real players. But while this adds an element of authenticity to the game, it seems that the developers may have spent more on the licenses than on the game's mechanics. This is evident in the lack of polish in certain areas, such as the graphics and player animations.
The game features various modes, including online multiplayer and career mode. In career mode, players can choose to play as a real star or create their own player. The level of customization is impressive, from choosing their name and nationality to even their grunting frequency. As players progress through their career, they earn XP and reputation based on their performance and behavior on and off the court. However, it seems that XP doesn't have much impact on the game, which is a missed opportunity.
When it comes to gameplay, Tiebreak is more accessible than its competitor, TopSpin 2K25. However, this simplicity comes at a cost - the game lacks the strategic depth and finesse that makes real-life tennis so captivating. Court surfaces barely make a difference, and the player animations can look robotic at times. The opponent AI is also lacking, making uncharacteristic errors even for top players.
Despite its flaws, Tiebreak does have its strengths. The impressive roster of real players adds gravitas to the matches, and the game is relatively easy to pick up and play. However, it may not appeal to everyone, especially with its simplified mechanics and lack of refinement.
In summary, Tiebreak may not be the championship material that tennis fans were hoping for. But it's still a solid game that offers a decent gaming experience. With a score of 6/10, it falls short of greatness due to its lack of polish and tactical complexity. However, for die-hard tennis fans, it's still worth giving a shot.
Tiebreak is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC for £49.99 from publisher Nacon. It was released on August 22, 2024, and has an age rating of 3. For more gaming content, be sure to follow us on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. And if you have any thoughts or opinions about the game, feel free to email us or leave a comment below. You can also submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features on our Submit Stuff page. Happy gaming!
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