Publisher: Sierra
Ages: teens & up
Parental
Advisory:
Alcohol & Gambling
Does the world really need another gambling simulation for the PC? Sierra's Hoyle Casino 2004 offers a good variety of casino games and a fun experience with virtual, talking computer-controlled opponents. It's no great improvement over last year's version, but it's the most entertaining casino game that we've seen.
Hoyle Casino, like countless gambling titles before it, offers computerized versions of Baccarat, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, Horse Racing, Keno, Let It Ride, Pai Gow Poker, Poker, Roulette, Slots and Video Slots, Three Card Poker, Video Blackjack and Video Poker. Each game is first rate and easy to play and the game's artificial intelligence on the part of dealers and fellow players, particularly when playing poker, is competent. If players are unfamiliar with these games, Hoyle Casino comes with a helpful Rulebook and Strategy Guide and in-game tutorials.
If gamers are going at it alone, the game offers ten computer-controlled opponents that challenge them and offer semi-social conversation and remarks-a hallmark of Sierra's Hoyle series. There's also a "facemaker" that lets players create their own characters by combining hundreds of features. And up to four may play on the same computer.
New this year is a drink reward system that lets players order virtual drinks on the house. This feature adds nothing to the game experience and brings in the questionable element of alcohol. A new backtalk feature lets players talk back at computer opponents and easily express positive or negative comments, which adds to the experience.
The game looks great and serves attractive screens and offers convincing sound effects that evoke the noise of a real casino. Hoyle Casino 2004 is the finest casino game on the market and those who have never discovered the joys of virtual gambling may find something here. On the other hand, those who already own earlier versions of Hoyle or Microsoft Casino can simply stand pat.
9/17/03 www.daytrum.com Editorial Staff
