Brunswick Circuit Pro Bowling celebrates one of America's favorite pastimes, or at least Richard Nixon's. Finally there's a top-notch bowling simulation that allows you to play with the pros. The demo version limits you to two pro bowlers and an exhibition in Palm Springs, California, which isn't so bad. You're also restricted to seven frames, but all of the challenge and drama is there. The game utilizes DirectX to give you a realistic alley, audience and game play. The pro bowlers even physically react to the success or failure of their last shot.

 

Playing is rather difficult the first time you play it. Because the program uses a physics engine to simulate play, a ball can be tossed a number of ways. The game gives you two ways to control your shot. First, get into the correct position and adjust the amount of spin you'd like your ball to have. By clicking on the bowl icon, your pro will begin an attempt. In the space of a second, you'll then have to set your power and accuracy by left-clicking the respective bars. Like any pro sports sim, game play will resemble the skill and technique of the player you choose.

 

Take a night off from league night at the neighborhood alley, or put down Madden 99 and download this program. It's a fun contest that captures the thrill of a strike and the agony of a gutterball. Brunswick Circuit Pro Bowling, from THQ, receives four smileys. If you don't have DirectX, you can get the latest version from the support file located on our help page.