Pool Nation (PSN Video Game Review)

Pool is a sport that has been played for centuries around the world, and the sport has made its way into the video game industry plenty of times over the years as well. Whether playing classic 8-Ball, attempting to pull off the best trick shots or even completely changing the rules of the game for more extreme releases of pool games, nearly every iteration of the sport has been released in some form or another at some time in gaming, but the game has never looked better than in the upcoming release for PlayStation Network called Pool Nation. The new release has already seen its share of success on Xbox LIVE Arcade, and the upcoming release is the most polished version yet. If you've ever enjoyed playing pool in real life or in video games, you owe it to yourself to try this new release, as it is the best version of the sport available in the virtual world. Though the game might not be for everyone, there is still a lot to like about Pool Nation.

The new release is packed with nine different game modes to give players a variety of options when starting up a new game of Pool Nation. Of course, there is the classic battle of stripes versus solids in 8-Ball and 9-Ball, then there are other more challenging and unique mode such as the relentless Endurance mode that tasks players with seeing how long they can last while showing off all they have learned so far. The action can be taken online to battle it out with players around the world in one versus one matches to see who is the best pool player around, and online leaderboards are available for the truly hardcore fans. With so many different ways to play Pool Nation, you can be sure you're getting your money's worth with this new downloadable game.



In addition to special game modes, there are about one million unlockables featured in Pool Nation. 16 Ball Sets, 16 Pool Cues and 16 Table Decals ensure that no game looks exactly the same. The backgrounds of matches can be changed as well with four different locations to choose as a setting at three different times of day. Pool Nation is hand down the best looking pool game we've ever played. The unique table decals and shiny new balls will keep you mesmerized throughout each match, and a nice array of sound effects ensure you're hearing each collision as they happen on the table. CherryPop Games went out of their way to ensure Pool Nation is an incredible looking game, and it shows in every animation and hit of the pool cue.

You'll be playing Pool Nation for days to clear the game's two offline tours that challenges you with over 40 different characters. This nice mixture of opponents goes a long way in making the game fun when playing solo, and various options will allow you to challenge computer controlled opponents that are on the same level as your skills. Other cool new features included in this PlayStation Network release include social features that allow you to easily share your best moments from the game streaming on videos over YouTube or posted directly to your Facebook account, so your friend can always remember your epic shot to win the match. The one obvious drawback to Pool Nation is that not everyone can appreciate a good game of pool, but fans can rest assured they are receiving the best version of the game available. Pool Nation is the next best thing to heading to your local bar or purchasing your own table in real life, only the game is a whole heck of a lot cheaper at $9.99. Buy Pool Nation with confidence, if you're a fan of the sport.

Pool Nation is now available for PlayStation Network and Xbox LIVE Arcade and can be purchased for $9.99 or 800 Microsoft Points respectively. Pool Nation is rated E by the ESRB. For more information on the game, check out the official Pool Nation website.

Game Features:

Online Multiplayer 1-2

9 Game Modes

Online Leaderboards

DLC Support

Trophy/Achievement Support

Game Information:
Developer: CherryPop Games
Publisher: Mastertronic Group Ltd.
Platforms: PlayStation Network (reviewed) & Xbox LIVE Arcade
Release Date: May 21, 2013 for PlayStation Network & October 31, 2013 for Xbox LIVE Arcade

Score: 9.5 out of 10