IT’S hard to think of any sporting game ever made better than Brian Lara Cricket.
A masterpiece of its time, even if you despise the sport, it seemed like everyone played it at some point.
We’ve been waiting ten-years for a title to even come close to that for the gentleman’s game.
But in Ashes Cricket – Big Ant’s latest release – we’ve finally found a genuine contender for the mighty Lara crown.
It has that rare feel in a sport simulator of both being fun and worthwhile, mixed with realism and authenticity.
It’s not perfect, nor does anyone think it ever would be, after all, cricket is a tricky game to master even on the pitch.
It is, however, a fine attempt at helping the casual audience fall in love with the simple game of bat and ball.
Since releasing Don Bradman last year, Big Ant has worked tirelessly to improve and enhance what they already had.
Bowling now has two varieties, helping give choice to your playstyle, including the old classic option.
Batting, while simple to control, is hard to master and requires your full concentration while at the crease.
The graphics have improved again, and I know for sure this is something the developers hope to keep topping up in future instalments.
Choice is a huge part of Ashes Cricket, whether you want to play a whole series with pals or a quick T20, there’s plenty of options.
You can customise pretty much everything, from the sponsor on your bat, to creating entire stadiums and competitions.
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The developers even spent time with both the real England and Australia team analysts to learn what certain players are good and bad at.
No stone was left unturned in this quest for a genuine top quality cricket game.
Big Ant have hit it for six.
PS4, Xbox One; £44.99; PEGII 3
4/5
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