The first time
your caddy takes off to chase down the tee shot, the game has you hooked with
its cuteness. The animations are compelling, but then you begin to realize the
depth of the game. Not only has SCE Japan and Clap Hanz put together a solid
golfing game, but they have kept it simple enough to be inviting to players of
all ages and skill levels.
And for those
looking for a challenging time, it is included.
Hot Shots Golf
got its start on the original PlayStation console system, graduated to the PS2
and PSP and is now making its debut on the PS3. The single-player element is
strong and delightful, but – as recently witnessed – the multiplier in the fun
department comes when you take the game online.
Sony Computer
Entertainment has created a lobby system, complete with tiny avatars that can
interact and change costumes, where players can gather to set up games. The
games themselves are easy to jump into and play. Up to eight golfers can
participate in a match, with each player playing at his or her own pace. Each
hole begins with the tee shot, but you don’t actually see what others are doing.
Sure, you might see distance markers, or a ball bouncing by, but you don’t see
them line up the shots or swing. You play until you hole out and then you are
popped to the scorecard. Once each player finishes the hole, you can see who the
leaders are, and there is a 20-second countdown to the next hole to be played.
Tournaments can hold up to 50 players, which makes for a more robust experience.
The game has a
new shot system, which allows players a bit better control – should they choose
to use it. You click to start the swing (the backstroke) and then at the top of
the swing, you click again to stop the swing. An instant readout will tell you
if you hit 100% on the backswing or not. After a brief moment, a diminishing
circle appears with the teed golf ball at the center. The idea is to click again
when the circle has collapsed on the ball. Get it right and you nail the shot.
There are three
modes of play – single player (with stroke, challenge and practice modes),
multiplayer and Online. The game has unlockables, and points to be earned as you
play. In some challenges, like match play, ties are broken by the points earned
on the hole. Points can be earned by hitting the fairway, landing on the green
close to the pin, birdies, pars and so on. Winning a round allows players to
pick from a selection of hidden prizes. These can include new clubs with more
power or spin.
The courses,
which are large and will allow players to take shortcuts across neighboring
fairways, are nicely detailed. The gallery may applaud your shot with a visual
that includes the word “clap,” while driving a ball through a tree will likely
give you the visual of “rustle,” even as you hear the ball hitting the leaves.
The game does
sport six new courses and there are 15 playable characters (unlocked) and six
different caddies to choose from as you level up. Of course, clothing options
are also available. Plans for the game include support on the PlayStation
Network with new courses, characters, clubs and clothing available at the PS
Store.
As you play
offline (in single player) you will accrue stats that will roll over into the
online game. Any unlockable you get, like clubs, will also be available for you
online as well.
The game does
have load times, but that is par (pardon the pun … or not) for the course. Deal
with the small delays in loading and you will find a gem in there.
The sound is
minimal and, if kept turned down a mite, is a fair supporting cast member. The
graphics, though, sport delightful anime characters, lush golf courses and solid
animations. It is a bit of eye candy.
Hot Shots Golf:
Out of Bounds is both entertaining and challenging. This is a delightful PS3
title that should have broad appeal. The single-player and multiplayer aspects
give great replay value and the online support should make this a game that ages
well.
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Gameplay: 8.5
Expect some load
times, but nothing that is too much. The game is simple to use and players of
any age should be able to jump in and play. You can use the new swing meter or
stick with the old-style method (meter).
Graphics: 8.5
Reading the greens
can be tough, but the animations are anime and delightful. The courses also look
very nice. The little hand-clapping routine is a nice touch. Combine this with
the fun of the multiplayer lobby and you have a solid graphical package.
Sound: 7.5
Not the focus but it
is a nice bit of background … if kept turned down low.
Difficulty: Medium
Concept: 8.8
Solid multiplayer
and single-player elements that work hand in hand. What you earn in the single
player game carries over to multiplayer. There are a few small bumps, but this
is a solid and entertaining package.
Multiplayer: 8.9
The matches should
be easy to find with an interface that is simple to navigate. Playing online is
very well realized and simple to do. You simply play your ball until you finish
the hole and then wait for all those in the match (up to eight players) finish.
Scores are displayed and you move to the next hole. It is simple and satisfying.
Overall: 8.8
The characters, by
their very design, keep the game light-hearted and fun. The game is easy to play
and the multiplayer is enjoyable. Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds is a terrific
bit of golf gaming.
