Microsoft folds.
GAMEPLAY
You’ll find that Texas Hold ‘Em for the 360 is exactly that: a Texas Hold ‘Em game. There isn’t much in the way of surprises, or interesting game play elements. You can play on or offline in tournaments of up to eight players. And while the single player game can be challenging, it’s really only an excuse to unlock new achievements.
Online however, is where the real fun is at. Tournaments are played using virtual money. As you play, your bankroll increases or decreases which allows you to play at higher limit tables. But like most online games, it’s only as fun as the people you play with. Get with people who don’t know how to play, and it becomes a drag.
GRAPHICS
Texas Hold ‘Em is really lacking in terms of graphics. As the game starts, you’re treated to high-resolution cards with interesting looking designs on the face cards. Yet you’ll never see these in the actual game. Instead, all you see is low detail cards. Add to this that you’re only looking at the table, and that there are no avatars actually sitting at said table makes me feel like something is missing.
SOUND
The sound department folded in this game too. You’ll hear the same music playing constantly in the background, but you rarely notice it, and it’s forgettable when you do. I would have liked to hear some more old west style saloon music, or allow you to play custom MP3 tracks. The sound effects are also bland, and forgettable.
VALUE
This is another lacking area. Sure, the tournament play is fun, but you’re still playing the same game. It would have been nice to play other styles of poker like five-card draw, or Caribbean stud. Since it’s illegal in most States to play even virtual poker if you’re under 18, I felt like Microsoft should have gone the extra mile to make this more of an “adult” game by adding strip poker with avatars as a different mode. I doubt that would ever happen, but the point is this game really needs something more compelling to have lasting value.
As it stands, Texas Hold ‘Em is a decent poker game. If you’ve never played poker, or have no real friends who play, this is a good way to get into the game. But no other styles of poker, plus bland graphics and sound make this a game that’s only worth the free download. I wouldn’t pay for this game once the free offer is over unless you’re a poker junkie.