Game Review - by SkaDaddy
In 1972 the world was introduced to Pong. A single game and home video game console that started it all. We marveled at the "pongs" that we used to bounce the ball back to our opponent in hopes that they would miss. Well, pong is back, and it's better than ever. There are multiple levels, power-ups, up to four player action: all in 3D. This is Pong: The Next Level and it is more addictive than ever.

Features:
This new version of pong features 20 mind-blowing levels with power-ups and bonuses. At times, there are even helper characters that hit the ball back for you when you miss. You can have up to four players for all out madness. It doesn't seem like a lot, but any more, and you would call in sick on Monday.

Gameplay:
This is the only category where the original was king. The analog controls do work but are not listed as compatible. It doesn't matter; the analog sticks aren't any better than the control pad. It's just very awkward and hard to get used to. You can't tell where your pong really is or how fast it will move. The original had the paddles with a wheel and that was the real way to play pong.

Graphics:
This is where the new pong really hits a home run. With new 3D graphics and a fully controllable pong this game takes the cake over the original. You can (with power-ups) slap the ball, grab and then release the ball, and do other special moves. The backgrounds have various moving items like rolling logs as floors for example. This makes the game more challenging and a lot more fun.

Sound FX:
The sound effects for this game were ok. Nice arcade sounds with typical PlayStation quality, but they aren't special or memorable. Neither is the music. Just good background music with no point. They are nothing to marvel over. I wouldn't buy the CD (and they wouldn't sell it).

Overall:
I would buy this game. I would suggest you go buy this game. Why? Because of the price. If this were a forty dollar game, I would say it's not worth it. But for the measly twenty dollars they are asking for this game, it is worth it. It is incredibly addictive especially if you have four players. Then, it's a party.