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The game has been developed by Madrid-based Virtual Toys, and promises a new way to play tennis. Players will need to use the DS touch screen to move the tennis player around the court, and then by sweeping the stylus across the screen can pull off moves such as serves, lobs, drop shots, powershots and more.
Codemasters say that the touch screen “gives the player an unprecedented level of control over the angle and length of the shots they hit.” All this touch screen control malarkey might sound difficult to master, but the game will feature an in depth tutorial/training mode in the Tennis School. Here you’ll be guided through the ins and outs of stylus control. If you simply can’t get the hang of it, then there’s the option to use the d-pad.
We’re told that there will be the option to play through the game’s Career mode (spread over 20 tournaments) as either Nadal himself or as your own original character. Choosing the latter will enable you to customise the player’s look, attributes and skills. As you progress through your career you will earn credits which can be used to level up your player in five specific areas: serve, forehand, backhand, smash, and speed. Winning a match or tournament may also reward you with prize money, allowing you to buy new equipment or hire a partner for doubles.
In addition to the Career mode, there is also a host of multiplayer modes available. Singles and doubles matches are playable using a wireless connection, and even better is the need for just one copy of the game. If each player does own the game then a wider selection of courts and players will be available to choose from.
Rafa Nadal Tennis will be released for the Nintendo DS in December.
