The game controls aren’t that difficult to master, though the practice round leaves something to be desired. Occasionally the training section of a game can seem patronizing in its simple–minded orientation for the player. There’s none of that in Power Spike, and the absence of the training section is actually missed. I did discover, however, that it’s easier to get a feel for the game in an actual match, which makes the practice section expendable. Simple tips are available during the loading screens for each match — a nice touch, since the load times are so bad. There is some fun to be had once you’re in an actual tournament, and the ability to control the direction, speed and strength of spikes and serves makes for a little pride in technique. Holding down the action button while performing these moves trades accuracy for speed and strength, with the all too familiar measuring bar to gauge it. The AI opponents are good, and even the amateur level holds a decent challenge. There’s still some frustration, though, due to the difficulty in switching positions with a teammate when receiving a serve. The selection of male and female all–star players is vast, and an option to develop brand–new players is included. More features become available as tournaments are won.

All of the aforementioned holds little appeal, however, when faced with the outdated graphics of the game. There’s a drastic difference in quality between Power Spike and much of what is available as standard fare on the PSOne these days. The characters are jagged, undefined and unattractive. They seem to drag their feet in the sand, hunched over like their spirits were broken long before the match started. That’s a disappointment, considering pro beach volleyball player and model Gabrielle Reece is so prominently featured.

There is also little variety to the player’s perspective. An overhead camera angle gives a similar view to a real match, but with the limited contrast and indiscernible features of the characters, it gets old fast. A winning move will produce a celebratory leap in the air, but the action seems feeble. And while the promise of exotic locations to play in might sound attractive, there’s little to distinguish one from another.

Music seems to be an afterthought in this game. It’s fairly energetic during the startup screen, but practically non–existent once game play starts. Occasionally the music picks up in the middle of a match, but it cuts away awkwardly, and too soon to enhance the energy level of the game. The menu music is good as well, but only for the first 30 seconds, after which the sounds are just repetitive.

Volleyball is a game frequently more fun to play than to watch. Though the concept of playing this game on a console might add interest, unfortunately, players are apt to prefer doing the real thing. With better graphics and more variety, there’s potential here, but it’s still far from being a must–have game.