The key to conquering most of
Hot Shots Tennis: Get a Grip's mechanics is simply a matter of timing. Aiming shots is a breeze, though you'll have to learn when to swing and, more importantly, what type of swing to use. Each of the PSP's face buttons offers up a different hit type: forehand, backhand or lob. Though selecting your hit type is situational, there's no "one hit fits all" type situation. Everything depends on how your opponent is playing and how you want to play.
Understanding the difference between a lob and forehand is easier than it sounds and once you understand the basics, you can easily work your way though most of the game without much problem. It won't be a breeze, but you'll manage to hold your own in most matches. To make sure you win, you'll have to master most intricate strategies. You have to determine angles, relative speed... there's a lot to the game beyond making sure the ball goes over the net.
In response to more intricate mechanics, some sort of training mode would have been a nice addition. Simple play instructions are offered during load times, though they aren't as helpful as a few short lessons on how everything works. There's nothing here you won't eventually figure out on your own, though you'll have to lose a load of matches while you learn.
I don't like tennis that much, but I enjoyed Hot Shots Tennis: Get a Grip. It's a lighthearted approach to the sport offering a lot for players. For me, the big draws were the customization and collection aspects, though under the glitz there's still a solid tennis game at play. It's a vast improvement over the first game and at $20, it's hard to pass up.