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The Plot:  I think the best thing that I can say about "Hot Shots Golf 3" is that, as a non-fan of Golf, it made the game very entertaining, so I can only imagine what actual golfers might think. The game manages to be a light-hearted and rather cartoony affair that still manages to provide challenge and enjoyment due to the fact that the action seems realistic and the controls are easy. The different methods of play are found in the first menu, where amusing little animated characters act out that particular variation of play. Stroke, Tournament, Versus, Training Modes and the National Tournament options are available (a password for the National Tournament option can be found online at the Hot Shots Golf 3 website). There are also options for multi-player gaming, a short course for a quick trip through a smaller course and a training version. In terms of playing Vs. against the computer, a nice option worth mentioning is the ability to skip to the result of the computer's shot and not having to wait until it lands. The entire game moves along at a rapid clip, Playing through a course allows players to gain extra points for different successes - getting a par, a shot on the fairway, a long drive, etc. Points are subtracted for landing in the water, a sand-trap or other faults. The points are added up at the end of each round, allowing the character to shop at the pro shop for new clubs and other options that will improve future play. Beating characters in tournament play also unlocks them for use (players start off the option of three characters.) As previously mentioned, the game is a bit of a contradiction, offering slightly goofy (if not ridiculously so) characters, but also offering smartly designed courses that appear professional and have well-placed hazards. There have been several instances already where I've cringed in horror as, although I made a fairly good shot that landed on a hill, the ball will start to creep towards the water. Still, while it's frustrating to see the ball head towards the drink, the roll the ball took down the slope seemed a realistic event and not just the game being difficult. Trees also pose a threat, easily finishing what would have been a potentially strong drive. Different weather conditions/seasons also become a factor. An additional camera option allows the player to see where the ball would likely land if hit hardest so that the player can get an idea if they're going land in a hazard. Of course, this landing depends on if your swing is accurate. Although I certainly enjoyed playing through the available courses, hopefully future versions of "Hot Shots" can include a course-builder option. Overall, "Hot Shots Golf 3" really stands out as a fine sports entry. Those who are hardcore or casual fans of Golf will want to check it out - especially when the Summer months get too hot to visit the real links, while even those who have no interest in the sport may want to take a look as a rental. Rating: 9/10 The DVD Graphics: The graphics for "HSG 3" are wonderful, but not quite exceptional. The features of the characters are crisply rendered and their expressions of either joy or utter failure are smoothly presented. The courses themselves are acceptably presented; trees, water, grass and sand areas look good, although I would have liked a bit more fine detail to the grass and maybe some of the outlying elements (people, the club house, etc.) The reaction of the landscape to the ball is also solid, as the grass or sand flies up a bit when it hits and the water splashes when the ball decides to take a swim. The menus are also fun and well-animated, containing lively looks at the different aspects of the courses and player strengths/weaknesses. The load times of the game are also really fantastic; there's almost no wait whatsoever for the next green to appear. Additional viewing options - such as different replay angles and a movable camera - are also easily available. Occasionally, the camera follows the ball in flight, too. Rating: 8.9/10 Sound: The only thing that really keeps "HSG 3" from being a great game, in my opinion, is the sound. Although some of the sound effects (ambient sounds, the smacking of the golf ball) are clearly and crisply offered, the voices of the characters really started to get repetitive after several games. Your caddy generally says the same thing over-and-over again to the point where I wished there was an option for the character to tell the caddy to shut up. The sound overall isn't too bad - I liked the music and the sound effects were quite nice, but there really should have been an option to turn the voices off. Rating: 8/10 Gameplay: "Hot Shots Golf 3"'s controls are easy enough to play without frustration, but not easy to the point where the player is hitting a perfect shot each time. Essentially, each swing is a three-step process - one click starts the swing, another click determines the power and the third click determines the accuracy. What I was really impressed with was the putting area - the game offers a very nice grid system that gives offers players a solid way to be able to read the green. The ability to unlock other characters, options, tips and equipment add quite nicely to the replay value. Rating: 9.1/10 Rating Issues: The game is rated "E" for everyone. As there is no violence, language or other issues in the game, this is an accurate rating. Final Thoughts: Moderate irritation with some aspects of the sound aside, "Hot Shots Golf 3" offers terrific control, great graphics and solid replay value. A definite recommendation for fans of the sport and even non-fans should consider taking a look. |