Mario Power Tennis Shots and controls: topspin, slice, lobs and Power Shots
Learn standard GameCube inputs and when to change shot depth.
Edition covered
Original GameCube edition and controller inputs. The Wii New Play Control release uses a different control scheme and is excluded.
Choose a shot before choosing maximum power
Topspin and slice have different speed and trajectory. A lob punishes a player close to the net, while a drop shot forces a deep player forward.
| Shot | Input | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Topspin | A | Higher, faster return |
| Slice | B | Lower, slower return |
| Lob | A then B | Send the ball over a net player |
| Drop shot | B then A | Land the ball close to the net |
| Flat shot / smash | A+B | Fast direct hit or high-ball smash |
The normal GameCube scheme uses A and B sequences
A produces topspin and B produces slice. A then B produces a lob; B then A produces a drop shot; A+B makes a flat shot or a smash when the ball is high enough.
| Opponent position or threat | Useful response | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Opponent close to net | Lob | A short lob may allow a smash |
| Opponent deep | Drop shot | Reach the ball early enough to place it |
| Ball far out of reach | Defensive Power Shot | Racket must be charged |
| Opponent offensive special | Defensive special | Can avoid its disruptive effect |
| You are stranded at sideline | Recover toward open court | Do not overcharge the next return |
A glowing racket signals a charged Power Shot
Offensive Power Shots apply character-specific pressure. Defensive Power Shots retrieve difficult balls and protect against effects from an opponent’s offensive special.
Recenter after the return
Charging early improves a prepared shot but commits your position. Move back toward a useful covering position rather than admiring a strong hit from the sideline.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Nintendo game information or original manual | www.nintendo.com |
| Super Mario Wiki game reference | www.mariowiki.com |