Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The gameplay in Multi Sports 98 stands out primarily for its breadth and depth, offering three distinctly different sports experiences in one package. Kick Off 97 presents lightning-fast soccer matches where close control and tactical passing are essential. The ball physics feel responsive yet challenging, rewarding players who master the learning curve. High-speed counterattacks and one-two passes capture the essence of classic arcade-style footy while still providing a satisfying level of simulation.

Switching gears to Nascar Racing 2, the gameplay shifts to a far more technical realm. Precision steering, tire wear, fuel management, and draft physics all play into each high-stakes race. Whether you’re gliding through Turn 4 at Daytona or battling wheel-to-wheel at Talladega, the game demands concentration and respect for real-world racing dynamics. Multiplayer options (over LAN or modem) amplify the excitement, pitting you against human opponents who won’t hesitate to dive-bomb into the draft.

Tennis Elbow rounds out the trio with an accessible yet nuanced tennis sim. The control scheme lets you shape your strokes—topspin, slice, flat—while positioning and timing determine rally outcomes. Single-player tournament modes replicate the ebb and flow of a real match: adrenaline-pumping break points followed by tactical resets. Overall, Multi Sports 98’s strength lies in giving each sport enough depth to satisfy genre veterans, yet packaging them together so newcomers can sample a variety of rules and styles without additional investment.

Graphics

Graphically, Multi Sports 98 reflects its late-90s pedigree with a mix of 2D sprites and early 3D renderings. In Kick Off 97, the overhead view employs sharp, colorful sprites on crisp pitches that remain easy to read even when the action speeds up. Stadium backdrops, though somewhat static, feature enough crowd detail to foster atmosphere during big matches.

Nascar Racing 2 takes advantage of basic 3D models for cars and tracks, delivering a respectable sense of speed and scale for its era. Textures on vehicles wear scuffs and sponsor logos realistically, while trackside objects—grandstands, billboards, pit boxes—help ground you in a more lifelike racing environment. Occasional pop-in and jagged edges remind you of the technology’s age, but the core thrill of close-quarters oval racing remains compelling.

Tennis Elbow’s graphics marry 2D background art with smooth sprite animations for players. Court surfaces—clay, grass, hard—are differentiated by subtle color shifts and particle effects (like clay dust kicking up). Player models are simple but expressive, with fluid motion routines that mirror real tennis footwork. While none of the three games push polygon budgets, each maintains clear visuals that serve gameplay needs without unnecessary distractions.

Story

As a sports compilation, Multi Sports 98 doesn’t revolve around a traditional narrative. Instead, each game introduces its own “story” through career modes and tournament progression. Kick Off 97’s managerial options let you guide a club through leagues and cups, forging your own underdog tale or dynasty over multiple seasons.

In Nascar Racing 2, the story unfolds on the track via a career calendar. Each race weekend builds momentum: qualifying positions determine your starting spot, and strong finishes earn sponsorship dollars to upgrade your car. The absence of cutscenes or character dialogue means the narrative arises from your personal triumphs and setbacks—an authentic simulation of the driver’s journey.

Tennis Elbow offers tournament brackets that form a narrative arc: early-round matches test your skills before you face top-seeded rivals in semifinals and finals. While there’s no cutscene drama, the emotional highs of saving match points or staging comebacks provide a story that’s uniquely yours. In all three titles, the emergent storytelling comes from player-driven achievements rather than pre-scripted events.

Overall Experience

Multi Sports 98 delivers exceptional value by bundling three classic sports titles, each with its own flavor and competitive depth. For fans of retro gaming, this package is an affordable trip down memory lane—complete with tight controls, addictive mechanics, and ample replayability. The variety ensures you’re never stuck in a single routine; when soccer fatigue hits, you can switch to high-speed oval duels or court-side tennis battles.

On the downside, the aging graphics and dated online features may feel limiting to modern players accustomed to seamless 3D environments and integrated matchmaking services. Installation can be finicky on newer operating systems, requiring community-made patches or DOS-emulation workarounds. However, persevering through setup hurdles unveils a rich assortment of gameplay styles that remain well-balanced and entertaining.

For potential buyers seeking a sampler platter of late-90s sports simulations, Multi Sports 98 stands out as a thoughtfully curated collection. Its simultaneous focus on arcade flair and simulation realism provides something for casual players and hardcore enthusiasts alike. If you value gameplay variety, competitive depth, and retro charm over cutting-edge visuals, this compilation remains a worthwhile addition to any gaming library.