The level of excitement one feels towards “Mario Tennis Fever” largely hinges on their familiarity with the series’ previous installments. Nintendo’s iconic character, Mario, has been engaging in tennis matches since 2000, courtesy of the Japanese studio Camelot. The latest release, “Fever,” marks the ninth entry in the franchise. While the core gameplay offers thrilling tennis action with various features and fantastical elements, some longtime fans may find the single-player Adventure mode lacking.
Despite its shortcomings, “Mario Tennis Fever” enriches the exclusive games library of the Switch 2 console, which has had a mixed reception since its launch. The game’s mechanics are accessible to players of all skill levels, allowing them to select characters from the Mario universe for singles or doubles matches. The gameplay remains engaging, with responsive controls and vibrant visuals that capture the essence of a Mario game while providing a realistic feel to the court surfaces.
Each character in the game possesses distinct traits, such as speed, power, or technical skills. For example, Mario is a versatile all-rounder, catering to newcomers, while heavyweights like Donkey Kong bring powerful smashes at the cost of agility. The diverse character roster includes unique personalities like Rosalina, who floats gracefully above the court, and Koopa Troopa, sliding around like a puck on ice.
In “Mario Tennis Fever,” the introduction of Fever rackets adds a new dimension to gameplay. These special rackets can trigger unique effects, such as setting the court on fire or creating temporary clones. Matches often revolve around strategically using these Fever shots, which can lead to chaotic and exhilarating rallies as players try to outmaneuver each other.
The game offers various Mix It Up modes that further diversify the gameplay experience. From a pinball-themed court to reality-bending scenarios reminiscent of classic Mario games, these modes add a layer of unpredictability and fun to the matches. Additionally, Swing mode allows players to use Joy-Con controllers as virtual rackets, enhancing the social gaming experience reminiscent of past Nintendo console titles.
While the single-player Adventure mode features a quirky storyline and mini-games, its short duration and repetitive nature may not appeal to all players. Despite its flaws, “Mario Tennis Fever” shines as a solid multiplayer experience best enjoyed with friends. However, the limited content and higher price point compared to previous titles may deter some fans, highlighting the need for further innovation in future releases.
