If you ever wondered what it would be like to bowl with characters sporting hairstyles that would put a 90s boy band to shame, then League Bowling is your ticket to nostalgia. Released by SNK originally for the Neo Geo back in 1990, this quirky bowling game has made its way onto Xbox One in the form of ACA Neo Geo, and it's here to take your split-second decisions and your bowling expertise to a whole new level. The only question is: can it strike a chord with you, or will you leave these lanes rolling in gutter balls?
League Bowling offers three modes for players to bowl their way through the game: Regulation, Flash, and Strike 90. 'Regulation' mode plays just like your typical game of bowling, allowing players to target that coveted 300 score. Good luck finding that perfect throw! Then we have 'Flash', where the score values will randomly flash during your throw. A strike during this mode leads to a mysterious bonus that could propel your score upwards like a pinball machine on caffeine. Finally, 'Strike 90' flips the script, where strikes score 90 points and spares score 60. It's like bowling on easy mode for those times when you've just had a little too much soda before your turn. Oh, and if you're feeling brave, you can gather up to eight friends for a bowling showdown thanks to the multiplayer link-up. That's right! Elite bowling squads are a thing now! Who knew?!
Graphically speaking, you might feel like you've stepped back into a time capsule filled with neon colors and oversized jackets. The characters have those iconic oversaturated colors and cartoon-like representations typical of 18-bit gaming. While it may not compete with today's hyper-realistic graphics, there's a certain charm reminiscent of classic arcade designs that still manages to evoke smiles. And let's be honest, the outrageous hairstyles alone are worth a few chuckles. If something were to go wrong in a bowling alley during your real-life game, at least you wouldn't have a character's hair right to blame.
In conclusion, League Bowling is an entertaining romp through a bizarre bowling world, filled with characters that make you wonder what they were thinking when they styled their hair. It delivers satisfying gameplay and nostalgic visuals that can charm those willing to roll with it. While it may not change your perception of bowling games or become a staple in your gaming library, it's worth giving a spin (or shall we say, a roll?) for its light-hearted fun and competitive spirit. You might not see yourself at the World Series of Bowling anytime soon, but who knows? You might just want to call your friends over and challenge them for that bragging right of who can bowl a perfect game...or at least try not to laugh too hard at those crazy character designs. Just remember to use the right bowling ball weight, avoid the gutter, and let loose those hilariously exaggerated reactions from the characters every time a spare or strike is scored. In the end, you'll leave with some memorable moments, good company, and perhaps one too many snacks from that pesky bowling alley concession stand!