You may have played an earlier Ping Pong Trick Shot game on Nintendo hardware (3DS or Switch). This latest entry, Ping Pong Trick Shot EVOLUTION, is a continuation of the series. Much like its predecessors, it’s a smaller game at a smaller price ($4.99). Also like its predecessors, it’s a release firmly grounded in the just “fair” territory.
Bouncing or tossing a ball into a cup is simply one of those activities that just has limited appeal in video game form, minus the tangibility. Now Starsign does do well with what they have to work with, but the premise isn’t one to keep you hooked for too long. Repetition eventually sets in, and you’ll start to wonder what else you have to choose from in the crowded Switch eShop.
The varied modes on hand will keep you playing for a while, though. Challenge, Score Attack, and Two-player modes all return. The former is the strongest by far, with varied star-earning challenges beyond just beating the 80 levels. It’s also non-linear if you want to try something else, which is always appreciated.
The 50 Cup mode is just what it sounds like, presenting you with 50 cups and the aim to get a ball in each. The cups slowly move to inject some diverse gameplay into Ping Pong Trick Shot Evolution. It’s not a bad mode the first couple of times, and it does save your high score (39/50 for me). It’s not going to attract the bulk of your attention like Challenge is though.
Obstacles are scattered throughout the game. They include fans to blow your ping pong ball, and surfaces that make the ball bounce more (or not at all). Could the concept be pushed further? In video game form, probably, but it’s a basic concept to start with.
Character selections are new, possibly to try and inject some personality into the proceedings. The five grey figures look unfinished though. I commend the devs for wanting to add something different, but I’m not sure these were needed. The “balanced” player was just fine since you still have full control over the angle and power of your throw anyway.
It’s nothing special to look at on the Switch, and its appeal is likely limited. Still, Ping Pong Trick Shot EVOLUTION, concerns and all, does what it sets out to do, making for an unspectacular yet solid entry in the series. If you enjoyed the prior games, you’ll enjoy this one. If you’re curious, maybe try out one of the 3DS releases, for just $1.99, first.
Review: Ping Pong Trick Shot EVOLUTION (Nintendo Switch)
Fair
It’s nothing special to look at on the Switch, and its appeal is likely limited. Still, Ping Pong Trick Shot EVOLUTION, concerns and all, does what it sets out to do, making for an unspectacular yet solid entry in the series. If you enjoyed the prior games, you’ll enjoy this one. If you’re curious, maybe try out one of the 3DS releases, for just $1.99, first.