Danny Phantom heads to the tennis court with SpongeBob. Or Garfield faces down Invader Zim. It’s not animation day at Wimbledon — it’s Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis. The stars of animated shows past and present compete in a very unusual version of the sport.
The game debuted Friday on Apple Arcade.
Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis adds a twist to the classic sport
The new game from Viacom promises “the most Extreme Tennis Matches EVER!” (Perhaps that’s a quote from SpongeBob.) There’s a lot more going on than lobbing a ball across a court.
The fun starts with choosing from a new or classic Nickelodeon character. And matches take place in familiar locations, including Bikini Bottom, ZIM’s secret base and the TMNT rooftops.
Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis players can surprise their opponents with sudden serves and unique special moves. Most tennis matches don’t let players throw Krabby Patties at each other. And there are outfits and rackets to customize your character, though these must be earned. And characters level up by by earning experience on the court.
It’s for one or two players so you can go head-to-head with a friend.

Photo: Viacom/Apple
On Apple Arcade starting today
Nickelodeon Extreme Tennis launched Friday on Apple’s gaming service. There are versions for iPhone, Mac, iPad and Apple TV. No matter the platform, an external game controller is an option.
Apple Arcade costs $4.99 a month, but one subscription works for up to six family members. Subscribers can play more than 200 titles in the catalog, including SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit. Sports fans can try NBA 2K22 Arcade Edition or Ultimate Rivals.