Mario Tennis Fever Arrives February 12th: Racket System and New Modes Introduced

New Mario Tennis Game Arrives with Racket System

Nintendo is preparing to release Mario Tennis Fever, the newest member of the Mario sports series, for the Switch 2 console on February 12. While retaining the series' signature top spin, slice, and power shot mechanics, the game is drawing attention with its new 'Fever Racket' system.

Rackets with Special Abilities and the Fever Shot

Similar to vehicle selection in the Mario Kart series, players can choose from 30 different rackets. Each racket possesses a different special ability that can be charged by rallying the ball back and forth. When the ability gauge is full, players can unleash a powerful shot called the 'Fever Shot,' which can change the flow of the game.

For example, the Fire Racket transforms the ball into a fireball, leaving coal fragments on the court. If an opponent touches these fragments, their health slowly decreases and their movement slows down. The Pokey Racket summons a giant cactus onto the court, obstructing the player's view and making it harder to chase the ball.

Balance-Focused New Mechanics and Wonder Court Mode

Unlike special shots in previous series games, Fever Shots allow for counterplay. When a player uses a Fever Shot, the opponent can counter before the ball hits the ground to nullify the shot's effect. This leads to fast and chaotic volley sequences as players try to prevent the ball from touching the ground.

In addition to Fever Rackets, a new mode called 'Wonder Court Matches' has been added to the game. In this mode, Fever Rackets are disabled, and familiar blue flower seeds from Mario's latest 2D platformer are used instead. The mode offers a different kind of chaos by instantly and unexpectedly changing the game rules.

Multiplayer and Single-Player Experience

While detailed information about the game's Adventure mode hasn't been shared, it's noted that this mode is deeper and more detailed compared to the previous game, Mario Tennis Aces. The game also supports motion controls for younger players or those who prefer swinging a virtual racket over pressing buttons.

Regarding multiplayer modes, Nintendo offers comprehensive options. Mario Tennis Fever supports both ranked and unranked online matches, as well as local wireless (LAN) play. Furthermore, thanks to the Switch 2's Game Share feature, even people who don't own the game can experience it by having it sent to nearby consoles.

Mario Tennis Fever is now available for pre-order with a $70 price tag. It's stated that the game targets players who prefer fun-focused sports games over realism.