Every pool player knows, it’s all about finesse: strike the cue ball just a hair away from where you need to, and you’ll miss your shot. So why do so many billiards games offer all the pizzazz of a washed-up hustler? Pool Nation puts them all to shame.
You'll want to do more than defeat your A.I. opponents, who too quickly become experts over the course of lengthy 8- and 9-ball tours. Each win earns you a star, but optional objectives like racking up skill-shot points or sinking multiple shots in a row unlock simple special events. Complete these one-off diversions — 3-ball, rotation matches, and so on — to win cue sticks, table decals, and ball sets. We wouldn't ordinarily get excited about fresh wood and shiny spheres, but Pool Nation is the prettiest billiards game we’ve seen on a console.
Pool Nation's tables, reflections, and shadows look fantastic.That beauty isn't skin deep, either. A top-notch physics-simulation engine convincingly handles even the most outlandish shots, while concise tutorials and cleverly rendered aiming aids help you get comfortable with everything from backspin to jump shots. You can even lock in how much power to use, or rewind time if you make a mess.
There's no Bankshot Billiards 2–style collection of trick-shot challenges, but the difficult Endurance Mode demands you pocket balls even as new ones appear on the table. Such timed monkey business doesn't play to Pool Nation's strengths in the same way that more leisurely one-on-one games against pals and A.I. bots do, as setting up elaborate shots wastes precious seconds. But it's a neat idea that adds just a dash of personality to an already attractive package.
Jump shots can send balls sailing off the table if you're not careful.PUBLISHER: Mastertronic Group, Ltd. • DEVELOPER: CherryPop Games • ESRB: Everyone • MULTIPLAYER: 2 locally or on Xbox Live • ACHIEVEMENTS: Taxing • COST: 800 Microsoft Points ($10) • RELEASE DATE: October 31, 2012
+ Outstanding physics simulation, with tutorials and aiming aids that help you make the most of it.
+ Crisp visuals; instant do-overs; Endurance mini-game; multiplayer against humans or bots.
– A.I. opponents get too good too quickly; no trick-shot challenge mode.
? Why can't we play Golf or Speed matches online?
