The classic GameCube makes an almost welcome return on the Nintendo Wii that now supports the innovative control system of the Nintendo Wii. It should be noted that Mario Power Tennis is not the only game from the GameCube that will appear on the Wii as Nintendo have a variety of other games coming out that will use the control system of the Wii. Whether this is a good thing is to be seen, however for now, let's see what all the fuss is about.

The story revolves around the Mushroom Kingdom that is the host for a variety of epic tennis matches that include just about all of Nintendo's well known characters. Whether it's Mario for the boys or Peach for the girls, gamers of all ages should be able to find a character that interests him.

Although the game is reminiscent of Wii Tennis, the game is heavily focused on power-ups and special maneuvers that make this a most unusual game. As you play, your power goes up that might have Mario using a giant mallet to smash the ball at his opponent or Peach gently blowing a kiss and then unleashing a rage of fury to smash the ball home. Match that with each court having different obstacles and challenges plus each character having a different power and this will keep younger gamers entertained.

Gameplay wise, the title can be played by using the original control system of the GameCube with the Wiiremote, or with the Wiiremote as a tennis racket with the game controlling your character to an extended or with a nunchuck to give the gamer even more control. Playing it with the original control system is quite boring in my opinion as it the option without the nunchuck, however with the wiiremote and the nunchuck, the game does take on a new experience as compared to the original GameCube title.

In regards to hitting the ball, the game is quite lenient and if you miss a shot, you can swing the controller again (like a real tennis racket) and attempt to hit the ball again. Unfortunately the accuracy is a hit and miss affair and even when you're aiming at where you want to hit the ball, it doesn't necessary go there.

The AI in the game is ridiculously quite difficult as you progress in the game. With that said, playing the "traditional" tennis match seems like a game of luck when pitted against the AI, however where the game does shine is with another player and once again proves that the Wii is the perfect party console. Match that with some interesting party games such as tic tac toe and other activities and depending if you're a Wii fan, this may keep you busy for quite some time.

Graphically, the title is quite reminiscent of the GameCube with some updated graphics that look great on a high definition TV. All the characters interact well with the gaming environment and the special maneuvers are a treat. Unfortunately these special maneuvers stop the gameplay and makes it quite disjoined at times. The music is pure Nintendo as are the voices, for instance if you lift your controller in the air, waiting for the ball, your character will tell their opponent to hurry up. Quite cute.

In conclusion, New Play Control - Mario Power Tennis is an interesting game that I unfortunately found a tad boring and no way as near as fun as Wii Sports. It's definitely targeted at the younger market with the limited gameplay, however if you're after a more sturdy sports game than I would definitely look else where. It's a shame!