Review: Sega Superstars Tennis (Wii)

Only now does Sega seem intent on exploiting the wonderful range of original characters and themes present amidst its sizeable back catalogue. Cue Sega Superstars Tennis, which features predictable inclusions such as Sonic the Hedgehog, but its the return of AiAi (Samba De Amigo) and Ulala (Space Channel 5) that really brings a smile to Gamestyles face.

Sega Superstars Tennis is as you’d envisage, a bunch of classic characters turning up for a few quick games of tennis and a dose of mini-games for when the tournaments become too much. It is a classic formula that we’re used to seeing on the Wii nowadays, with many games opting for that quick hit of game play rather than any long-term experience.

Virtua Tennis is the barometer when discussing tennis and any Sega release, especially when you realise that Sumo Digital were responsible for the third incarnation in that series. Yet here any sense of depth or reality has been jettisoned in favour of a fluid arcade style. Each character has their own court environment and more importantly their own special ability. This is triggered when required and for that point allows your character to return in a unique style. For instance Ulala will go into Space Channel mode, complete with accompanying side dancers in an effort to put you off.

It's an equation that we’ve seen in countless Nintendo releases, yet in Sega Superstars Tennis it feels out of place. Nintendo Wii owners are crying out for a decent, simulating tennis experience with more options than that seen in Wii Sports. The real issues become more visible when you pick up your racket (or remote) and select one of the control options available. Thankfully if you prefer not to use the motion capabilities then you can either utilise the nun-chuk or just go it alone in the classic style. Either of these options will allow you control the movement of your character, which is a step forward. Whichever you select it will take only a few moments to realise that depth of control and gaming experience is not an improvement, nor equal of Wii Sports.

Gamestyle expects the movement of your character to be automatic as they criss- cross the confines of the court. However even the art of returning and direction seems somehow to be not fully under your control. The range of shots at your disposal and their accuracy is open to debate. While we can accept the arcade nature of this release, we did hope that Sumo Digital could have put more depth into this game rather than colourful graphics or options.

It is unfortunate that there is no online mode available, as this would have added a new spectrum of options and a sustained challenge. Those with an Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 will be pleased to know that both versions do offer this function. As it stands Sega Superstars Tennis only really comes alive with friends crowding around the screen for a few hours. Minus such events, this title will sadly gather dust with those other ‘party’ feeling Wii releases.

The mini-games are laid out across a map with areas exclusively linked to each Sega star. For instance you can visit House of the Dead to knock down zombies with your powerful returns, or take on the cast of Jet Set Radio in a game challenge. The aim is to unlock the next challenge and ultimately new areas on the map. It is a similar formula to that seen in the last Virtua Fighter and with over a hundred tasks on offer, one you may enjoy or just avoid.

Visually Sega Superstars Tennis is not the glorious Technicolor triumph we had hoped for. The colour scheme and utilisation of the classic characters is spot on, but the environments and textures are dull and lack the shine seen in classic Sega arcade titles. At least the music captures the feel and memories of past releases, with Gamestyle looking out its maracas one more time.

Ultimately Sega Superstars Tennis is yet another frivolous entry in the Wii Catalogue. Arriving on all formats, you feel that it is a missed opportunity to really allow the Wii to shine and is a watered down experience, hampered by the multi-format approach. Now where did Gamestyle put its copy of Wii Sports?

Rating: 5 / 10

Words by Jason Julier