Platform: PS2
Label: Natsume
Availability: Out Now

When I first picked up the case for Pro Bass Challenge two words came to mind, these words were ‘Cheap’ and ‘Nasty’. The cover art looked like it was cobbled together by a small child and the back had very little information in very large print. You were immediately left with the impression that this game was going to be so poor that they had nothing good to write about it.

With a weary heart and low expectations I popped open the case and there was the first pleasant surprise, the manual was well laid out with good explanations and picture guides. It provided a brief description of the different types of bait and the weather in which they should be used, which is the type of information the non-professional would need to know.

The game itself has a comprehensive tutorial, which doesn’t have that "tagged on at the end" feel that many other games seem to possess. The title also offers three modes of play, which extend the gaming experience and will keep you coming back on those cold wet days when you just can’t face trudging out to the lake.

This is, I have to say, the best looking angling game I’ve seen. The graphics are sharp and well animated and you get the impression that the creators aren’t just relying on the name to sell copies (though I’m sure it’ll help).

Action above water is fast, smooth and well thought out - it's actually part of the game rather than just a method to get you to the fishing action, and it’s touches like this that gives a game a good reputation.

Once you’ve picked your spot and cast off, the underwater shenanigans are a little on the bland side, but I see no way of really spicing this up without losing any sense of reality. The head up display you receive while fishing is clear and unobtrusive, whilst providing all the information you’ll need at that time.

In my humble opinion this is the first fishing game that is not aimed at the elitist fishing fraternity. It is able, through it’s various settings, to take all comers no matter their level or knowledge and thus gives it a far wider appeal.

If you can accept the fact that these games will never be truly realistic, this does seem to be the best of the bunch. It’s just a damn shame its not compatible with the PS2 Rod controller.

Reviewer

Peter Austwick
dunan_5@hotmail.com