Virtua Tennis 3

Did You Know?

• The Xbox 360 version has exclusive Xbox Live online tournaments and modes.
• The PlayStation 3 version incorporates the option to control the game using the Sixaxis motion-sensitive controller.

Game modes

World Tour mode is the main mode, where the user creates a male or female tennis player starting at rank 300th and aims to become number 1. Ranking improves by winning matches and tournaments, while abilities increase through training minigames and academy exercises. Players can interact with featured professional tennis players. Tournament mode resembles the arcade version: the user selects a professional or created player and must win five matches across different surfaces and venues. Achieving a rank of A triggers a challenge from Duke, while a rank of D triggers a challenge from King. Exhibition mode allows single matches with customized options for player, opponent, and court. Court Games mode features minigames from World Tour and is dedicated to multiplayer.

Reception

The game received generally favorable reviews on all platforms according to Metacritic. In Japan, Famitsu gave the PlayStation 3 version a score of 28 out of 40. GamePro scored the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions each 4.25 out of 5; The Watcher called the PS3 version an outstandingly well-made game with impressive visuals, easy-to-learn gameplay, and a great selection of minigames, while Ouroboros described the Xbox 360 version as a fan service treat that requires considerable willpower to put down, feeling like a more refined and balanced version of what was played on the Dreamcast. Edge gave the PS3 version eight out of ten, noting it is a deeper, more serious, and demanding game that retains the series' lighthearted atmosphere and is occasionally bonkers. Retro Gamer gave the PSP version 80%, stating it is still a great game but hard to justify paying extra for a near identical experience when World Tour can be purchased cheaply. Gabe Boker of GameZone gave the Xbox 360 version 8.2 out of 10, praising solid online multiplayer, a career mode bursting with life, and addictive minigames. Ronnie Hobbs gave the PS3 version 7.5 out of 10, calling it a fast, frantic, high-octane style of tennis. Louis Bedigian gave the PSP version eight out of ten, calling it a content-filled, mini-game-infused joyride.