Tennis, released in 1980 for the Intellivision, focuses on the purest essence of the sport: two players facing off across a net-divided court, challenged to return every shot with precision. Developed by APh Technological Consulting and published by Mattel Electronics, the game eschews computer-controlled opponents, making the entire experience designed for head-to-head competition.
Before the match begins, players can choose from four game speeds: slow, medium, medium-fast, and fast. This choice allows the match to be tailored to different skill levels. Lower speeds provide more time to react and get used to the controls, while higher speeds demand quick reflexes and a better ability to read the ball's trajectory.
The serve is set up using the numeric keypad, allowing players to choose from different areas of the court: inner, center, or outer. This mechanic adds a strategic element right from the opening shot, as placing the ball in a specific area ca...
Tennis, released in 1980 for the Intellivision, focuses on the purest essence of the sport: two players facing off across a net-divided court, challenged to return every shot with precision. Developed by APh Technological Consulting and published by Mattel Electronics, the game eschews computer-controlled opponents, making the entire experience designed for head-to-head competition.
Before the match begins, players can choose from four game speeds: slow, medium, medium-fast, and fast. This choice allows the match to be tailored to different skill levels. Lower speeds provide more time to react and get used to the controls, while higher speeds demand quick reflexes and a better ability to read the ball's trajectory.
The serve is set up using the numeric keypad, allowing players to choose from different areas of the court: inner, center, or outer. This mechanic adds a strategic element right from the opening shot, as placing the ball in a specific area can make it harder for the opponent to return it. Side buttons are then used both to select the type of shot and to respond during rallies.
For every shot, players can choose between a hard or soft hit. The chosen power level influences the pace of the point, forcing a choice between a more aggressive attack and a controlled style of play. Although the controls are simple, the system rewards coordination and turns long rallies into a test of anticipation and reflexes.
Victory is not decided in a single set. To win the match, a player must prevail in three out of five sets—a structure that places greater importance on consistency and allows for a comeback after a poor start. Overall, Tennis offers a competitive, accessible, and purely multiplayer experience typical of early home sports video games. Its simple design, variable speeds, and selectable serve placement make it an ideal choice for quick matches between two Intellivision players.
