|
 |
Welcome to PocketMatrix.com, a Mobile Devices enthusiast website. If you're a developer, be sure to check out our developer forums.
You can change your sidebar preferences in your Profile. |
Background
Celeris, makers of the Virtual Pool series for the PC, have ported these popular
games to the Pocket PC. Does Virtual Pool Mobile sink the 8-ball on its competition,
or does it scratch on the break? If you could even tell what that meant, read
on. Graphics
Virtual Pool Mobile boasts being one of the few true 3D games available to the
Pocket PC, and as such, it doesn’t disappoint in the graphics department.
The colors are rich, the menus crisp, and the animation smooth. More than in
any other game, the graphics help immerse the player in the gameplay experience.
This is a rare feature in a PPC game, and Virtual Mobile Pool pulls it off flawlessly.
Sound
The sound in VMP is excellent for a PPC game. The in-game music is catchy without
sounding cheap. The game sounds are spot-on; balls collide with a satisfying
click, the cue strikes with a resounding snap, and the “plunk” sound
balls make when they fall in the pocket is rewarding. And if this doesn’t
impress you, there are options to adjust the levels of sound and to mute the
game.
Gameplay
Any pool game, no matter how graphically impressive, is worthless without proper,
realistic physics. Fortunately, the developers at Celeris spent as much time
on gameplay as they did on graphics. The balls roll true to reality, the cue
is accurate, and the speeds seem correct. Special features include the ability
to adjust cue height and to put english (the pool term for spin) on a shot.
VMP can be played in a variety of modes, each uniquely challenging. There are
options for quick play, tournament play, or career play. In quick play, a single
game, either against the computer or against a friend, is played. In tournament
play, the user sets the parameters (number of opponents and their difficulties)
of a field of competitors and then competes for the gold. Career play is the
most immersive and expansive game mode; the user challenges a series of pool
sharks, and once all have been dominated, the user earns a match with Curly,
the ultimate shark. This feature opens with an amusing video of Curly himself
challenging the user and setting the rules for the game.
All of these game modes are fun and provide a different environment (though
the gameplay itself stays static throughout). Career mode in particular ensures
replay value well into the future.
Conclusion
Virtual Pool Mobile is an immersive, graphically impressive game that provides
a realistic playing experience. The variety of game modes guarantee extended
replay value, and the physics offer a great experience each time. As far as
pool games go, Virtual Pool Mobile is practically perfect.
Pros:
- Great graphics
- Realistic physics
- Immersive gameplay
- Extended replay value
Cons:
Rating:
|
|
