Lean, Green, Golfing Machine- Let’s Golf Reviewed

Although I’ve only golfed only once, I’ve spend a substantial amount of time on the virtual greens. From Wailai Country Club for the Super Nintendo, through the last five incarnations of the Tiger Woods series, to the VR Golf diversion at Dave and Buster’s, I’m no stranger to the electronic tees. One of my favorite recreations of the sport is the Hot Shots Golf series, known as Minna no Golf to Japanese gamers, and as Everybody’s Golf to Europeans.

The series has consistently offered an easily accessible game with an ever-increasing set of unlockables to maintain player’s interests. Each game has also been dependably button-cute, featuring a wide variety of caricatured players set against a vibrant backdrop. While other golf games have incorporated swing meters to simulate the gold swing, Hot Shots Golf has reliably stayed with its three button press system.

The franchise has unfailingly found a home on each of Sony’s gaming platforms, and recently a number of Hot Shots clones have been made for the Wii, and Xbox 360. With the popularity of iPhone, the inevitable has occurred- now fan’s of Apple little black device can get an approximation of the series with Let’s Golf, the latest entry in Gameloft’s growing library. 

For the entry price of $5.99, players get a handful of modes. Instant play presents players with three random holes- a ten minute diversion perfectly suited for a quick trip on the bus or train. Players with a longer commute will want to start a tournament game. Initially, players will be able to play on two courses -the Fuji and England fairways. Success in the tournament mode unlocks the game’s two additional courses. Additionally, players can win clothing options that are more than mere cosmetic folly- each article of clothing may improve a player’s statistic. I outfitted one male character with a dress to improve his precision- masculinity be damned, I like to make those long putts.

Borrowing a page from Hot Shots playbook, Let’s Golf is delightfully easy to control. Players are shown a shot trajectory that can be moved around the course. Once the player takes into account wind, distance and elevation, the swing meter begins its accent. Players tap an on-screen button in the lower right corner to solidify shot power, and once more to simulate aim. Alternatively, there is an advanced control option that requires the gamer to slide their finger along a curve to replicate a swing. Additionally, both modes allow gamers to put a bit of spin on the airborne ball by tapping on a small on-screen icon. Truthfully, this was only slightly effective, as the assistance had a single speed setting. Our only other complain is that the game was a bit twitchy when the player solidified their shot trajectory. 

Graphically, Let’s Golf has a surprising amount of detail and 3D sophistication. Courses are lined with well drawn trees, and bunkers are realistically shaded. Backdrops range from voluminous clouds, to mountain peaks and accented by the occasional hang glider. With so much detail, the application does suffer from the occasional framerate drop, which rarely occurs during swings.

For players longing for a Hot Shots Golf-like arcade diversion, Let’s Golf is the app of choice. It’s simple, enjoyable, and one of the most graphically lavish 3D games we’ve seen on the iPhone platform. With four courses and a number of unlockables, the title should hold a players attention for at least a few hours.