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Review of Pool Hustler on PlayStation

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Sep 1998
Cover image of Pool Hustler on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6.0
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 30 Sep 1998
Genre: Sports
Developer: Ornith
Publisher: ASK and Activision

Introduction

Welcome to the world of 'Pool Hustler', where strategy meets stylish cue action, and your only worry is whether your friends can handle losing gracefully. Table-slapping, pool sharking, and more chalk than your average school supply aisle await you as you dive headfirst into this billiards extravaganza.

Gameplay

In 'Pool Hustler', you have several characters to challenge, each with a backstory more complicated than your last breakup. Take on Joe, a hot-headed pool enthusiast who plays with such intensity that he might just give your grandma a run for her money; Yung, whose soft strokes will leave you questioning your own masculinity; and Liz, who must have been in an episode of 'Real Housewives' given her colorful backstory. The gameplay itself is straightforward, allowing you to sink balls (pun not intended) as you navigate through various modes including single-player and multiplayer, because nothing screams 'let's bond' quite like losing at sports to your friends while trying not to cry. You can play regular games, but 'Pool Hustler' also offers a Billiards Lesson mode-perfect for those non-green-thumb gamers attempting to upgrade their skills and possibly impress their crush by actually hitting the balls instead of turning the table into a disaster zone. Controls are simple enough that your sofa-lounging lifestyle won't be interrupted while you effortlessly line up shots. You also have the ability to customize your shot power and spin, turning you into the next billiards prodigy...or at the very least, functionally competent. However, while you may start off feeling like a cue master, facing off against tougher opponents quickly reveals that winning a match often depends on a mix of strategy and sheer luck. Who knew you could channel your inner hustler without stepping out of your living room? It's like training for the real world, but instead of heading out for a job interview, you're honing your skills to become the king (or queen) of the local pool hall. No fake IDs required.

Graphics

Graphically, 'Pool Hustler' brings you visuals that scream 'late 90s video game'-that is to say, if pixelated graphics and angular animations are your thing. The tables, balls, and character models hold up about as well as a paper towel at a barbecue-somewhat functional but not exactly eye candy. If you can overlook the early PlayStation graphics and focus on the entertainment value, you'll find that chalk dust and neon lights can still make any game feel exciting! But let's be honest: for most of us, it's not like we're buying a PS1 to gaze upon the intricate detailing of virtual felt.

Conclusion

'Pool Hustler' isn't going to change how we watch billiards on television or set the world on fire like your cousin's bad barbecue skills. It's more of a niche novelty that entertains while it lasts, perfect for those weekend gaming marathons with friends when you're too lazy to shuffle your way to the local bar. With a score solid enough to keep you coming back for a few more rounds, it's worth a shot if you're into pool and fancy a nostalgic trip back to the glory days of the PlayStation. Just remember, when you inevitably lose the game, just claim you were trying new techniques like *spinning with your non-dominant hand* or *hustling like it's the Olympics* next time around. Trust me; it works until it doesn't.

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