HoopWorld Review

Dr. Naismith would be shocked at how far back his game goes…

By Aaron Roberts. Posted 08/18/2010 12:05 1 Comment     ShareThis
The Final Grade
B+
Excellent
grade/score info
1up
1-Up Mushroom for...
Fun setting and characters, non-stop action
1up
Poison Mushroom for...
Stiff AI

HoopWorld Screenshot

In HoopWorld, basketball is more than just a sport — it’s a ancient competition invented by aliens to test humanity’s worth.  With a plot somewhat akin to a Harlem Globetrotters cartoon, it’s not surprising that HoopWorld sports fast-paced, crazy arcade basketball action.  Unlike the Globetrotters, though, there are half a dozen whacked-out teams here to choose from, each with their own theme, from a group of goth Wiccans to mercenaries to a Western-themed team to a squad of robots.

This is three-on-three basketball at its craziest.  To say that HoopWorld is inspired by Arch Rivals and NBA Jam is an understatement.  If anything, this game is even crazier than its predecessors.  For one, the courts are located in volcanoes, beaches, jungles,   and in ancient Greek ruins.  For two, the players use Mario Kart-esque power-ups to liven up the matches and can even physically attack opponents.  Of course, the punch move isn’t too overpowering — one can also evade with a quick dodge, if the timing is right.  Graphics are solid for a WiiWare game, and the soundtrack is literally fantastic, as are the cartoon-like sound effects.

Three basic play modes, here — Exhibition, Tournament, and Survival, which is playing game after game until a loss.  Motion control is used well, as a flick of the wrist either for passing or punching, and raising both Remote and Nunchuk at the same time will shoot.  The game will automatically cause a character to slam dunk if within a certain radius of the basket.  Playing is a blast, and most power-ups are useful, but one generally has to go out of his way to reach them.

HoopWorld Screenshot

Local multiplayer can be fun, but online multiplayer is practically nonexistent, although there is an online scoreboard for Survival mode.  Arcade-style basketball games are not nearly as prevalent as those featuring other sports, and HoopWorld is a lot of fun, so it’s definitely deserving of a look.

One Response to “HoopWorld Review”

  • 0 points
    KirbyK says...

    It’s a funny game to play solo and with a brother/friend, it needs online!!

    About the AI, the last difficulty mode is really hard. I’m still trying.

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