The player views matches from a side-on, slightly elevated court perspective. The objective is to win points by positioning the character, returning shots, exploiting court space, and using different tennis strokes. Story matches, training exercises, tournaments, and optional challenges structure the academy campaign.

Players explore the academy grounds, speak with students and staff, complete lessons, and improve attributes through practice. New rackets, shoes, and other equipment affect performance, while successful progression unlocks tougher opponents and additional playable Mario characters. Exhibition play provides standalone singles or doubles matches.

Learn to anticipate the opponent’s shot direction instead of reacting only after the ball crosses the net. Aim returns toward open court, then use the next shot to move the opponent away from the center. Staying near a sensible recovery position is usually more reliable than chasing every angle.

Complete training exercises when a skill feels weak, and choose equipment that supports the attributes needed for the next tournament. In doubles, cover the open side of the court and avoid both partners moving toward the same ball. Save stronger special shots for points where they create a clear positional advantage.