Despite not really being a sports guy, I do like a bit of video game based sports, especially when it comes to things that aren’t the usual big blockbusters. Pure Pool Pro scratches that itch nicely, bringing us a solidly built pool sim that has some excellent physics and controls, even if the presentation is a bit bare bones.
We can choose between 9 Ball and US 8 Ball, each with three tiers of difficulty to work through. Lower tiers have some assists on to help with aiming, but the Pro tier naturally removes all of these, and is by far the most enjoyable way to play. As we work through the various brackets, we face off against AI pros, or compete in solo challenges like Speed Potting or Perfect Pot, where we have to pot a ball with every turn. These break up the traditional games nicely, offering a good challenge to collect all three stars on each challenge.
In game, we aim with the left stick, and pull back and forth the right stick to set power and speed. It’s a system that works well enough, and once we add in back and front spins we can really try to show off with some trick shots. The physics system holds up very well, with balls clattering about the table (and sometimes off of it) realistically. The AI opponents offer a good challenge too, especially on the higher difficulty, and a fluffed shot on our end can easily open them up to take it home without issue. But they are not infallible, and it does feel like they have been designed to miss some otherwise straightforward looking shots at times so as to give us a chance.
There are dozens of challenges to work through in the career, but we also have free play and practice modes if you just want a quick game of pool. Local and online multiplayer is here, though I’ve not been able to test this out just yet. It will no doubt be a great way to unwind in the evening I’d think, and I look forward to trying my luck with anyone out there up for a game.
What is less exciting is the presentation. I’m not sure how much pizazz a pool game can come with, but – while the balls and tables look realistic – there’s a distinct lack of flair in the visuals and audio. We never see our avatars in game, there’s no commentary or the like, and even though I enjoy the actual gameplay, it all feels very unexciting. We do get a slo-mo camera when we pot the black which is a nice touch, but I’d have liked to see more of this; instant replays for a cool shot, or slow downs and zooms if a ball looks like it’s going in when it shouldn’t, that sort of thing.
I’m also not a fan of the heavy use of AI in the game. I’m not as adverse to it in general as some – though I still would rather it not be a thing at all – in certain instances, but the AI generated “pro player” cards are boring, all side stares into the distance, all in the exact same pose and same generic background. And finally, the licensed soundtrack is awful, so I’d recommend podcasts or your own tunes as you play.
Conclusion
So overall, if you’re looking for a pool simulation that nails the basics – physics, game types, controls – then Pure Pool Pro fits the bill. The on table action is great, I’ve had fun going up against the AI in competitive matches and I look forward to jumping online once there are others to play against. But a dull presentation – full of AI generated guff – lets the side down.
This game was reviewed based on Xbox S|X review code, using an Xbox S|X console. All of the opinions and insights here are subject to that version. Game provided by publisher.
