Summary
- Release Year: 1981
- Genres: Arcade, Sport
- Platforms: Intellivision
- Developers: Mattel Electronics
- Publishers: Mattel Electronics
PBA Bowling (1981): The Granddaddy of Bowling Games
Released in 1981, PBA Bowling was one of the first bowling games to be released on home computers. Developed by Atari, Inc., it was the official computer game of the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA), and it quickly became a hit with bowling fans and gamers alike.
PBA Bowling was groundbreaking for its time, featuring realistic physics, digitized players, and full-motion video. Players could choose to bowl as one of six different PBA bowlers, each with their own unique bowling style. The game also featured a variety of different bowling alleys, each with its own unique atmosphere.
One of the things that made PBA Bowling so popular was its realistic physics engine. The game accurately simulated the physics of bowling, taking into account factors such as the ball’s speed, spin, and trajectory. This made the game challenging and rewarding, as players had to learn how to control their shots in order to score strikes and spares.
Another thing that set PBA Bowling apart from other bowling games was its digitized players. The game featured digitized images of real PBA bowlers, which gave the game a sense of authenticity. Players could choose to bowl as one of six different PBA bowlers, each with their own unique bowling style.
Finally, PBA Bowling was one of the first bowling games to feature full-motion video. The game featured full-motion video of the bowlers delivering their shots, which added to the game’s realism and excitement.
PBA Bowling was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the sport of bowling among gamers. The game was ported to a variety of different home computers, and it was even released in arcades. PBA Bowling is still considered to be one of the best bowling games ever made, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers today.
Gameplay
PBA Bowling is a simple game to learn, but difficult to master. Players control their bowler by moving the joystick left and right to aim their shot. The player then presses the button to bowl the ball. The ball’s speed and spin are determined by how long the player holds down the button.
The goal of the game is to knock down all of the pins with as few shots as possible. Players can score strikes (knocking down all of the pins with the first ball), spares (knocking down all of the pins with two balls), and open frames (knocking down less than all of the pins with two balls).
PBA Bowling features a variety of different game modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and tournament mode. In single-player mode, players can bowl against the computer or against a friend. In multiplayer mode, up to four players can compete against each other. In tournament mode, players can compete against each other in a series of matches to determine who is the best bowler.
Graphics and Sound
PBA Bowling’s graphics are simple but effective. The game features digitized images of real PBA bowlers, which gives the game a sense of authenticity. The bowling alleys are also well-rendered, and they each have their own unique atmosphere.
The game’s sound effects are also well-done. The sound of the ball rolling down the lane and crashing into the pins is realistic and satisfying. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that adds to the game’s overall atmosphere.
Legacy
PBA Bowling is considered to be one of the best bowling games ever made. The game’s realistic physics, digitized players, and full-motion video were groundbreaking for their time, and they helped to set the standard for future bowling games.
PBA Bowling has also had a lasting impact on the sport of bowling. The game helped to popularize the sport among gamers, and it also helped to introduce a new generation of bowlers to the game.
Today, PBA Bowling is still enjoyed by gamers around the world. The game is available on a variety of different platforms, including PC, Mac, and mobile devices. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a newcomer to the sport, PBA Bowling is a great way to experience the excitement of bowling from the comfort of your own home.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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