Ashes Cricket, the officially licensed video game of cricket's greatest rivalry, attempts to deliver the fast-paced action and excitement that fans of the sport crave. With a focus on realism and authenticity, this game promises to immerse players in the intense competition of the men's and women's 2017/2018 Ashes tours.
One notable aspect of Ashes Cricket is the use of Big Ant's photogrammetry technology, which brings official photorealistic likenesses to all the Australian and English teams. This attention to detail helps create an immersive experience that makes players feel like they are witnessing the live game. Additionally, star Test players have been fully motion-captured, allowing players to choose their own batting or bowling style and make the game their own.
However, while the game may excel in replicating the visual aspects of cricket, the gameplay itself falls short. Despite Big Ant's claim of a detailed and refined cricket engine, the overall experience lacks depth and fails to capture the strategic intricacies that make cricket such a beloved sport. The gameplay feels repetitive and lacks the variety and challenge that retro gaming enthusiasts may expect.
Furthermore, the lack of individuality in player styles is a significant drawback. The promise of no two players playing the game the same way remains unfulfilled. Instead, players are left with a generic experience that fails to capture the unique skills and talents that characterize real-life cricket matches.
In terms of nostalgia, Ashes Cricket does little to evoke the charm of classic cricket games. It lacks the polished and innovative features that made retro cricket games enjoyable and engaging. For those seeking a nostalgic experience reminiscent of vintage cricket titles, Ashes Cricket may leave them disappointed.
Overall, Ashes Cricket falls short of its potential. While its photorealistic visuals and official licenses create a sense of authenticity, the lackluster gameplay and absence of individual player styles prevent it from achieving greatness. This game may appeal to diehard cricket fans desperate for a current-gen cricket experience, but for retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a blend of nostalgia and innovation, Ashes Cricket proves to be a lackluster offering.
Rating: 3.5/10.
