If I could take Virtua Tennis 2009 and Top Spin 3 and put them in a blender and let them blend for a while, the final result would be either a very unpleasant beverage or a really good tennis game. Both games have their strengths and their weaknesses and depending on what you prefer, either game might be the right choice for you.

Where Top Spin 3 has Virtua Tennis 2009 straight out beaten is in the gameplay and controls department. With a little practice and determination you can pull off some amazing moves in Top Spin 3. Slices, drop-shots, spin shots and bullets, the controls in Top Spin 3 act very well and will allow you to play some beautiful tennis. On the other hand, the online community is much more up-and-happening in Virtua Tennis 2009. So if you like arcade-style competition across the Internet, Virtua Tennis 2009 might be the correct choice. Personally, I prefer Top Spin 3; I like the realism and the complexity of the controls. However, I do miss all the side games that are available in Virtua Tennis.

Note on 'Special Shots': I had to put 'Special Shots' in a section of its own because of the importance. Special shots are performed by holding either the left or right triggers on your controller in combination with any other shot that you might feel appropriate. Timing is everything; if you time your special shots right, you can totally decimate an opponent. However, if your timing is off just a little, the special shot will not be special at all and you'll loose the point. Special Shots are not essential for the single player aspect of the game, but if you expect to win multiplayer matches you better get really well acquainted with the special shots.