Mario Power Tennis is a solid update to a great Nintendo 64 game. The fundamental play mechanics are more or less the same, which is in my book just fine given that I liked them to begin with. The selection of playable characters and courts -- both immediately available and ready to be unlocked -- is likewise impressive. Meanwhile, the overall presentation, graphics and audio are all very well done, for the most part. In short, the core is still intact, and it still works.
That said, some of the additions are a mixed bag. The new power moves, while cinematic and certainly pretty, can jar the flow of matches and make it difficult to continually follow the ball. And the new Gimmick Courts, sometimes filled with flashing lights and other obstructing obstacles, share exactly the same problem.
Still, this is a fun game, and especially so if you have two or three friends to play with. If that's the case, don't hesitate to pick it up. It'll keep you busy well through the holidays.
