Tennis Elbow 4: A Diamond in the Rough – Game Review 2024
If you’re a fan of tennis games and you’ve just stumbled upon Tennis Elbow 4, your first impression might not be the best. With visuals that harken back to the PlayStation 2 era and janky running animations, it’s clear this isn’t a big-budget title.
However, as with any diamond in the rough, there’s something special beneath the surface. Tennis Elbow 4 may not wow you right away, but this game rewards those who invest time and effort.
In this review, we’ll explore why this game is worth sticking with if you’re after a truly immersive tennis experience.
You can watch our Tennis Elbow 4 In-depth review in video version on our YouTube channel, by clicking the below link:
Tennis Elbow 4 Gameplay:
Depth Over Flash
The gameplay in Tennis Elbow 4 is where the magic happens, but it’s not an experience that will hold your hand. TE4 has a steep learning curve, which makes it a challenge to master—but once you get the hang of it, it feels rewarding. The game delivers a tennis simulation that goes far beyond simple button-mashing and instead focuses on timing, positioning, and strategy. Every rally can feel like a chess match, requiring precise control and a tactical approach to gain the upper hand.
You don’t just spam buttons to get by; success in Tennis Elbow 4 means knowing the right shot to play in each situation. Whether you’re slicing a defensive shot to reset the rally, aiming for a deep top-spin forehand, or taking a calculated risk by charging the net for a volley, everything depends on how you read your opponent.
The game’s physics engine adds to this sense of authenticity—balls bounce realistically, varying based on surface types, spins, and even the power you put behind each shot. This depth in ball physics really shines on different surfaces, with clay, grass, and hard courts all offering distinct gameplay feeling.

A lot of Tennis Elbow 4‘s appeal comes from its realism. The game mimics the real-world unpredictability of tennis matches, where no two points feel exactly alike. You’ll need to pay attention to your player’s stamina, shot accuracy, and timing, and be strategic with court positioning. It’s not just about hitting the ball hard; you’ll need to think like a tennis pro, mixing up shot selection and anticipating your opponent’s moves.
One of the standout features is the game’s dedication to simulating tennis footwork and momentum. You can’t just glide across the court like you would in more arcade-like tennis games. In Tennis Elbow 4, your movement feels weighty, and poor footwork leads to unforced errors, just like in real life. The feeling of satisfaction you get when you move to the right position, set your feet, and nail a well-timed cross-court winner is what sets this game apart.
However, the same dedication to realism can make the game daunting for casual players. Without the right timing and rhythm, you’ll likely miss more shots than you’d like. The controls, while responsive, demand practice to fully grasp. Mastering topspin, slice, lobs, and drop shots takes time, but that’s part of the charm—there’s always something new to improve.
Visuals: Rough Around the Edges
Now, let’s talk about the graphics. If you’re used to the polished visuals of FIFA or NBA 2K, Tennis Elbow 4 might feel like a step back in time. The player models and animations can appear stiff, and the courts don’t have the same photorealistic detail seen in bigger-budget games. But here’s the thing: Tennis Elbow 4 isn’t trying to dazzle you with looks. It’s a game that focuses on substance over style.
That said, modding is where the game truly shines visually. The active modding community for Tennis Elbow 4 has created everything from player faces and outfits to fully detailed courts. With the right mods (make sure to install XKT mod), the game can look significantly better than its base version, allowing players to tailor their experience to their liking.

Modding and Online Multiplayer: Extending the Game’s Life
The modding community is an essential part of what makes Tennis Elbow 4 such a long-lasting experience. While the game itself provides a solid base, it’s the community-made mods that elevate it to the next level. Players can download custom courts, rackets, outfits, and even real-life player models, giving the game a much-needed visual boost. Want to play a Grand Slam at a detailed version of Wimbledon or Roland Garros? Thanks to XKT mod, you can do that.
In addition to modding, the online multiplayer is another key feature. Unlike many sports games where multiplayer feels like an afterthought, Tennis Elbow 4 offers a competitive, skill-based online environment. The game’s difficulty transfers well to online play, meaning you’ll often find yourself in long, intense matches with other skilled players.
I also had the chance to interview a top online player who goes by the name ‘Mystery,’ who shared some insights into the competitive scene. According to Mystery, Tennis Elbow 4 stands out because it “rewards dedication and study of the game,” and even the best players are constantly improving. Multiplayer offers a refreshing challenge where no two matches feel the same, largely because of the unpredictable nature of real tennis that the game mimics so well.

Tennis Elbow 4 Career Mode:
Building Your Legacy
If you’re more of a single-player fan, the career mode will keep you engaged. Starting out as a low-ranked player and climbing the world rankings feels incredibly rewarding, especially since every win feels hard-fought. Unlike more arcade-style games, there are no shortcuts here. You’ll need to manage your player’s fatigue, train between tournaments, and decide which events to compete in to balance out your schedule.
The depth in career mode adds another layer of realism, where each decision impacts your player’s progression. Although it lacks the flashy storylines or cutscenes seen in other sports games, the pure satisfaction comes from building a career through skill alone. Winning that first big tournament after hours of practice feels much more rewarding because of how difficult it is to get there.
Comparison with Other Tennis Games: How Tennis Elbow 4 Stands Out
When compared to other tennis games like Topspin, AO Tennis 2, or Full Ace, Tennis Elbow 4 clearly focuses on one thing above all: authenticity. Topspin provides a more accessible, mainstream experience, but sacrifices depth for ease of play. It’s a fun game but doesn’t require the same level of tennis knowledge. AO Tennis 2 tries to balance realism and arcade mechanics, but it quickly becomes predictable as you figure out the AI patterns, which I’ve mentioned in my review of the game.
For hardcore tennis fans, Full Ace is perhaps the closest competitor, but even then, Tennis Elbow 4’s physics engine and control depth make it the superior choice. Every shot in Tennis Elbow 4 feels earned, and the game’s learning curve ensures that even seasoned players are constantly refining their skills.
In essence, Tennis Elbow 4 appeals to players who seek a deeper, more challenging experience. It doesn’t aim to please everyone, but for those willing to invest the time, the payoff is worth it.

Final Thoughts: A Game for the True Tennis Fan
Tennis Elbow 4 isn’t for everyone. Casual players may find the controls too demanding, and the visuals might be a turn-off for those who prioritize graphics. But for tennis purists who value gameplay and realism above all else, this is the game that will keep you hooked for hours on end. The steep learning curve makes every victory feel like a real achievement, and with the addition of mods and online play, Tennis Elbow 4 has nearly endless replayability.
In a world where sports games are increasingly geared towards instant gratification, Tennis Elbow 4 reminds us that sometimes the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge us the most. If you’re a serious tennis fan looking for a true simulation experience, this game is absolutely worth checking out.