Rapala Tournament Fishing

""It does not set you on fire.""

I've never done review her before but I figure there is a first time for everything, so here goes!

Rapala Fishing is the first fishing game released for the Xbox 360 system. Being a big fishing fan in real life I eagerly looked forward to it. While it does not set the world on fire like Johnny Torch it is a relaxing way to pass some time away.

Graphics: The graphics of this game are not scintillating but are passable. Quite often the fish look bigger or smaller than they really are. The fish models are detailed in every other respect except size.

Sound: Sometimes sound can really add or take away from a game's experience. This aspect of the game falls right in the middle. If it gets repetitive after a few hours just turn it off. It really did not bother me even after many hours which is a good sign.

Controls: When you first pick up the game don't try to jump right in because some of the controls take getting used to. Try the tutorial and it will all become easy as pie. There are three important things to remember. First is to retrieve until the lure box on your screen starts to flash red. Stop immediately and just jerk it or retrieve every few seconds while the fish moves in. After suspending for a few seconds the fish will bite. Wait for the tension meter to hit the middle of its semi-circle and then jerk hard up on your analog stick to hook it. Be fast because sometimes it takes a couple of tries to do. When reeling in be aware of the tension meter and follow all onscreen prompts. If a fish is small you will have jerk your rod left and right to keep the fish from throwing the lure.

The Fish: There are a lot of fish in this game including several Bass, two Perch, Pike, Pickerel, King Salmon, several Trout, Walleye, and Crappies amounting to over a dozen species. No word on whether any more are coming via downloads.

Rapala: If you never knew about Rapala's lures before you will after playing the game. There are dozens of lure types, sizes, and colors to choose from. Do they work like this in real life? I don't know but the videos that are unlocked as the game goes on seem to indicate it.

Fun Factor: It's simple. If you love fishing you will like the game. This does not set any new standards but it is not a terrible game either. It is a very slow paced relaxing game, a lot like fishing in real life.

Replay Value: The only reason to replay this game is to get all the achievements. There is added online content and online competitions for the real hardcore few. System link is also available for this game.

Overall 6/10

It is a decent experience for anyone who loves fishing but it makes me yearn for Marine Fishing and Bass Fishing on my old Dreamcast.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 06/20/07