Introduction

If you've ever dreamed of immersing yourself in a digital Shakespearean tragedy set on a cricket pitch, 'Ashes Cricket 2009' might just be your cup of tea. Released by Codemasters, this title brings the world of cricket into the living room of your small, 10x10 apartment where you can battle it out literally for the Ashes... or at least the couch. Let's dive into this batting ballyhoo and see how well it swings the bat.

Gameplay

In 'Ashes Cricket 2009', you get to experience cricket like a true Englishman: sitting on your couch, shouting at the TV, and blaming the players for your sadness. The game features an intuitive bowling control scheme, which sounds fancy enough to impress your friends at the pub but often results in you sending the ball into the stands faster than you can say 'run!' Batting requires a level of finesse that even Sir Ian Botham would struggle with, leading to moments of sheer joy punctuated by bouts of forgotten curses. Of course, what's cricket without some good old-fashioned commentary? The game features voices familiar to cricket fans, including Shane Warne, who provides insights that no one asked for while also reminding you how badly you're playing. Multiplayer options are plentiful with the ability to have a thrilling two-player co-op, like a buddy cop movie, except with less cool explosions and more awkwardly waiting for the other player to finish their turn. Want to learn how to bat, bowl, and dodge angry balls like a pro? The coaching mode features guidance from legends, which is great until they realize you're still using the analog stick to imitate yoga poses instead of playing cricket. Also, the inclusion of Hawk-Eye technology does add a layer of authenticity-even if it just shows you how infrequently you hit the ball.

Graphics

Graphically, let's just say that 'Ashes Cricket 2009' won't be winning any beauty contests anytime soon. The players look like they've been lovingly hand-crafted by toddlers with a crayon and reflexes that resemble a mannequin. Environments are passable, although your friends might throw up a little every time you show them the close-ups of the players. The grass has that 'I haven't been mowed since 1982' look, and the crowds resemble cardboard cutouts of sad faces, which is strangely appropriate for how you'll feel after losing a match. Long story short, the graphics in this game are perfectly positioned to make you appreciate your PS3's ability to play much nicer-looking games like literally anything else.

Conclusion

In the grand scheme of cricket games, 'Ashes Cricket 2009' exists somewhere between slightly better than a kick to the face and one awkward family gathering. It has its moments, like when you finally score a boundary and feel like the cricket king you were always meant to be. But the gameplay can often feel like you're stuck in limbo, waiting for someone to sit you down and explain the offside rule (which is still confusing, by the way). I'd give 'Ashes Cricket 2009' a score of 6.5 out of 10; it's decent enough for some fun after a long day, but you might want to rent it rather than add it to your permanent collection of regret. Now go forth and swing that controller like it owes you money!

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