Summary
- Release Year: 1995
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Sega Saturn
- Developers: Data East
- Publishers: Data East
Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend (1995): A Classic Pool Game That Still Holds Up Today
Released in 1995 for the Sega Genesis and Sega Saturn, Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is a pocket billiards video game that lets players experience the thrill of the game in the company of the legendary Minnesota Fats himself. With its realistic physics, challenging AI opponents, and variety of game modes, Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is a must-play for any fan of pool games.
Gameplay
The objective of Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is to travel through different cities and defeat AI-controlled hustlers. The player can also take on another human player in order to prove his worthiness at the pool table.
The game features seven different variations of pool: Eight-Ball, Nine-Ball, Rotation, 14-1 rack, Three ball, Cut Throat & One Pocket. Each variation has its own unique rules and challenges, ensuring that there’s always something new to learn and master.
In story mode, the player takes on the role of an unnamed rookie pool player seeking to challenge Minnesota Fats. As the player progresses through the game, he will face off against increasingly difficult opponents. The story mode also features cutscenes that help to flesh out the characters and add to the overall atmosphere of the game.
In addition to story mode, Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend also features a versus mode and a tournament mode. In versus mode, players can take on any opponent of their choice, including a two-player option to take on a friend. In tournament mode, players compete against a series of opponents in a single-elimination tournament.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend are simple but effective. The pool table and balls are rendered in 3D, and the characters are 2D sprites. The game’s environments are also well-detailed, and the overall presentation is polished and professional.
The sound in Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is also top-notch. The sound effects are realistic and immersive, and the music is catchy and upbeat. The game’s voice acting is also well-done, and the characters are all voiced by talented actors.
Reception
Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its realistic physics, challenging AI opponents, and variety of game modes. The game was also praised for its graphics, sound, and overall presentation.
Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend was nominated for several awards, including “Best Sports Game” and “Best Genesis Game” at the 1995 Golden Joystick Awards. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is still considered one of the best pool games ever made. The game’s realistic physics, challenging AI opponents, and variety of game modes have ensured its longevity. The game is also still enjoyed by fans of the sport today, and it is often cited as one of the best examples of the genre.
Conclusion
Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is a classic pool game that still holds up today. With its realistic physics, challenging AI opponents, and variety of game modes, the game is a must-play for any fan of the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete novice, Minnesota Fats: Pool Legend is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
