The Nintendo SNES Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is a classic game that still holds up today. Released in 1993, it's a sports game developed by U.S.I. and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). In this article, we'll dive into the world of tennis on the SNES and explore its features, gameplay, and what makes it a great addition to any retro gaming collection.

Gameplay and Features

Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is a realistic tennis game that simulates the experience of playing professional tennis. The game features 18 players, including some of the biggest names in tennis at the time, such as Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, and Boris Becker. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

The gameplay is straightforward: players take turns hitting the ball back and forth on the court. The goal is to outmaneuver your opponent by using different shots, such as forehands, backhands, and volleys. Players can also use power shots, like the overhead smash, to try and finish off a point.

One of the standout features of Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is its attention to detail. The game's physics engine accurately simulates the movement of the ball, making it feel more realistic than other sports games of the time. The sound effects and music also add to the overall immersion, with the sound of the racket hitting the ball and the crowd cheering in the background.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour are classic SNES fare: colorful, blocky, and reminiscent of the era's other sports games. While they may not hold up as well today, they still manage to evoke a sense of nostalgia for those who grew up playing the game.

The sound effects and music are also noteworthy. The sound of the racket hitting the ball is particularly satisfying, with a satisfying "thwack" that resonates through the speakers. The crowd's cheers and commentary add to the overall atmosphere, making you feel like you're really there on the court.

Age Rating

Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is rated 7+ by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) for its mild cartoon violence and suggestive humor. However, it's worth noting that the game's violence is relatively tame compared to other sports games of the time.

In terms of its suitability for younger players, Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is generally considered a good choice. The gameplay is easy to learn, but challenging to master, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

Preservation Status

Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour has been preserved in various forms over the years. In 2011, the game was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console, followed by a re-release on the Nintendo 3DS eShop in 2012. The game is also available on several retro gaming platforms, including the SNES Classic Edition.

Impact and Legacy

Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour may not be as well-known today as some other sports games of the time, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of many retro gamers. Its realistic gameplay and attention to detail made it a standout title on the SNES, and its preservation status ensures that it will continue to be enjoyed by players for generations to come.

In addition to its nostalgic value, Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour has also influenced the development of tennis games in general. Its realistic physics engine and attention to detail set a new standard for sports games, and its success paved the way for future titles like Top Spin and Wii Sports Tennis.

Conclusion

Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is a classic game that still holds up today. Its realistic gameplay, attention to detail, and nostalgic value make it a great addition to any retro gaming collection. While it may not be as well-known today as some other sports games of the time, its preservation status ensures that it will continue to be enjoyed by players for generations to come.

If you're a fan of retro gaming or just looking to try out a classic tennis game, Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour is definitely worth checking out. Its simplicity and accessibility make it a great choice for players of all ages and skill levels, and its nostalgic value ensures that it will remain a beloved title for years to come.

Appendix

• Box Art: The original box art for Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour features the game's cover star, Jimmy Connors, in action on the court.
• Manual: The game's manual includes instructions on how to play, as well as tips and strategies from professional tennis players.
• Sequel: There was a sequel to Jimmy Connors Pro Tennis Tour, titled Top Spin 2, which was released for the Game Boy Advance in 2004.

Note: The information provided is based on available data up to December 2023.