Tennis no Ouji-sama: Smash Hit! 2 (Konami the Best)

Description

Tennis no Ouji-sama: Smash Hit! 2 features the competitive world of junior high school tennis as depicted in the Prince of Tennis franchise. The game follows various characters from the Kantou tournament era as they engage in intense matches that defy standard athletic limitations. It examines individual ambition, school rivalry, and the evolution of personal techniques through a series of scripted encounters and original scenarios. The atmosphere is defined by its vibrant cel shaded visual style and energetic voice performances that replicate the intensity of the source material. This release is the direct successor to Tennis no Ouji-sama: Smash Hit! and has a surprising level of mechanical depth and polished presentation.

The gameplay relies on a technical interface that combines standard tennis strokes with character specific special moves triggered via a dedicated tension gauge. Players must manage their physical energy and tension levels to execute iconic techniques such as the Tezuka Zone, which pulls all incoming shots toward the user, or the Twist Spin Shot, which changes direction violently upon bouncing. A significant new addition is the inclusion of over 40 playable characters and a diverse selection of modes including Scenario, Pairs, and Survival. The mechanics also feature non tennis activities such as a fully realised bowling mini game where characters utilise their athletic attributes to influence the ball’s spin and power. The technical framework supports local multiplayer for up to four participants, allowing for both singles and doubles matches with a high degree of customisation.

The game has a slick execution and functions as a high quality tennis simulation even for those unfamiliar with the license. Reviewers highlighted the variety of the roster and the faithful recreation of the anime’s most complex special shots as major strengths. The inclusion of the bonus bowling mode was praised for adding unexpected longevity to the package. Retrospectively, a standout entry in the series’ extensive gaming library during the franchise’s peak popularity in the early 2000s.