From Deseret News archives:
Video game review: Hoyle's latest offers plenty of entertainment
Platform: Windows XP, Vista / Mac OS X (DVD-ROM)
Studio: Encore
Rated: T for Teen (simulated gambling)
Rating: 8 out of 10
THE REVIEW
For the past few years, Hoyle has been putting out its version of classic card games in video-game format, and this year's installment only improves on the company's prolific legacy of card gaming entertainment.
With more than 150 classic games, this new release truly is "according to Hoyle," with online and in-game official rules, tips and strategies. Everything from the uber-popular and ubiquitous Texas Hold 'Em poker to more traditional home and recreational games like Pinochle, Bridge and my personal favorite Gin.
For the '09 edition, an online feature lets you log on to an interactive Web site for playing and socializing in a setting called Hoyle's Royal Suite (broadband Internet service recommended). I don't play a lot of games online, but I did register for this one, and found it to be intuitive and fun. The only drawback seemed to be a pattern exhibited in the DVD-ROM game, where cards are hard to read at some of the tables.
Graphics: This component of the game received upgrades in spades (pun intended) from years past. From the slick intros and environments to video effects and pleasing visuals, Hoyle's gamble to improve in the graphics department has paid off. Unfortunately, it seems they may have lost sight of one of the main ideas of the game with these upgrades: at some tables, like a few of the poker tables, the cards are a little hard to read. And there is an odd slant to cards on a few other tables, giving them a bit of an angle instead of a straight-on read.
Audio: A decent selection of background music and environmental effects are utilized, while the dozen or so characters set up in the game have unique dialogues and friendly banter. Best of all, if you don't want table conversation or care to listen to the background music, simply deactivate the audio choices without losing game play ability.
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