EA - Wii Grand Slam Tennis Party Mode QandA - Press Release

EA have released a QandA with he producer for Grand Slam Tennis on the Wii. they discuss the Party Mode in the game. The mode enables up to 4 players at a time to play tennis party games. these include games where you have to win a rally, 2 on 1 games, and a game where you have to use the Drop/Lob shot to win.
These games were developed with help from Tennis academies and Tennis Schools to make them relevant to tennis but also fun.

Press Release

Producer Q&A with Thomas Singleton - Tennis Party

What was the concept behind Tennis Party mode in Grand Slam Tennis?
Tennis Party mode was created primarily because Wii platform is the social platform of all platforms. So we wanted to create the experience of tennis experiences where people would get together and play simultaneously. The concept was taking tennis academy type of games that exist within the real world that are authentic to the game of tennis and providing that same experience within our gaming environment. Games like Aussie doubles or tag team doubles where you not only have a great time socially interacting with others, but you’re also increasing your tennis abilities along the way.

Why will people like Tennis Party?
People will love the Tennis Party mode for its social aspect; that’s the main reason you play that mode. It’s great to play on your own but it’s more fun to experience Grand Slam Tennis with others and tennis party is the best location to get that experience.

How many people can play?
At any one time, up to four players can play. You could have an infinite number of people rotating because it’s fun to watch as well.

How many different Party games are there?
There are three different party types: “Own the Party” where players who win a party game own that game on the party circuit of games. “Random Games” where the games you play are selected at random. “Double Up” where select games certain games are worth double points for the winner. Among those party types, there are seven core unique rule twist games that deliver rewarding ways to experience the Total Racket Control system, with each bringing a new and unique dynamic to the game. Those rule twists include:

Tag Team: 2 on 2 with players rotating and taking turns hitting the ball

Aussie Doubles: 2 on 1 and the players rotate after each set

Stop, Drop and Lob: use the drop shot and lob winners for double points

Champs vs Chumps: time based game, take turns swinging, win the rally to become a champ

King of the Court: beat the king to become king, only the king earns points

Netmasters: Net shots are worth double points

Triplets: Similar to Aussie doubles where (2 on 1) but the players do not rotate around

How did you come up with the skill challenges?
Our team consulted with people who run tennis venues. To keep with the authenticity to the sport, we employed people in tennis schools and tennis academies to come up with various games. We wanted deliver games that are authentic to tennis; games you would play on the actual tennis court, but are fun and social.