Before motion controls and online multiplayer dominated the courts, retro gamers knew where to go for a solid tennis simulation: Super Tennis on the Super Nintendo. Released back in 1991, this gem from Tose and Tonkin House (localized by Nintendo) quickly became a favorite, not just for sports fans, but for anyone looking for a competitive and engaging 16-bit experience.
What made this game stand out in a crowded sports genre on the SNES? Let's take a trip back to the pixelated baseline.
What Was Super Tennis Anyway?
At its heart, Super Tennis was a straightforward, yet surprisingly deep, tennis game. It arrived early in the SNES's life but already showcased some of the system's capabilities, particularly its clever use of Mode 7 graphics for court scaling and rotation during serves and volleys. While not a graphical powerhouse by today's standards, that effect felt pretty slick back then!
It didn't boast licensed players, but featured stylized characters with distinct looks and implied skill sets, adding a layer of strategy to choosing your player.
Hitting the Courts: Gameplay Modes
Super Tennis offered a few ways to get your pixelated sweat on:
- Singles: Classic one-on-one action.
- Doubles: Team up or face off with a friend or the CPU. This mode was a particular highlight for couch co-op sessions.
- World Circuit: This was the main draw for solo players. You'd compete in a series of sequential tournaments held on different court surfaces (hard, clay, grass), battling your way up the ranks. Winning tournaments felt genuinely rewarding and provided a great sense of progression.
The controls were tied to the SNES gamepad – D-pad for movement and direction, face buttons for different shots (topspin, slice, lob, etc.). Mastering the timing and positioning took practice, as the game didn't hold your hand with tutorials. You learned by playing, which is part of the charm of retro titles!
The Feel of the Game: Controls and Characters
Playing Super Tennis felt responsive, though perhaps a little stiff compared to modern games. Movement required precision, and positioning for shots was key. Charging up shots added power, and learning when to use a slice versus topspin was crucial on different surfaces.
The characters, while fictional, had subtle differences in speed, power, and maybe even serve style. Experimenting to find your favorite player added to the replayability. Landing a perfectly timed passing shot or a powerful ace felt incredibly satisfying.
Why We Loved It: Reception and Legacy
Back in the day, Super Tennis earned significant praise. Publications like Mean Machines and Computer and Video Games in the UK, and various outlets in North America, lauded its solid gameplay, attention to detail, and especially its fun multiplayer. Famously, even film critic Gene Siskel reportedly called it his favorite video game due to its perceived realism!
Retrospectively, it's still held in high regard. Many retro gaming sites and magazines have ranked it among the best sports games on the SNES, or even one of the best tennis games ever made, despite its simplicity. Its slick gameplay and engaging World Circuit mode cemented its place in the 16-bit hall of fame.
Serving Up Nostalgia Today
Does Super Tennis hold up? For many retro enthusiasts, absolutely. While graphically primitive, the core gameplay loop remains solid and enjoyable. Revisiting this title brings back memories of rainy afternoons, competitive matches with friends, and the simple joy of a well-executed pixelated rally.
Whether you played it religiously back then or are discovering it now, Super Tennis offers a fantastic look at classic 16-bit sports gaming done right.
FAQ About Super Tennis (SNES)
Q: What platform was Super Tennis released on? A: Super Tennis was released exclusively for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES).
Q: What game modes are available in Super Tennis? A: The game features Singles, Doubles, and a World Circuit tournament mode.
Q: Was Super Tennis considered a good game when it was released? A: Yes, Super Tennis received critical acclaim for its gameplay, detail, and multiplayer fun, often cited as one of the best sports games on the SNES.
Q: Can I play Super Tennis today? A: While original cartridges are available on the secondary market, the game can also be revisited through various emulation methods on modern platforms.
