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GOLF PRO 98
Developed by: Sierra Sports (1997)
Genre: Golf sim
System Requirements: Windows 95, P 60+, CD ROM, 35 MB HDD Space, 16 MB RAM, Mouse, Modem.

OVERVIEW: Golf 98 is Sierra Sports' entry into the PC golfing arena (a market that pretty much has two major competitors: Access Software's Links series and Microsoft Golf). With three excellent course (Prince Course in Kauai, Pete Dye in West Virginia and Coeur d' Alene in Idaho) and a spiffy new style of game control called "Trueswing" Golf 98 is bent on making a serious charge into the elite category of PC golfing. But does it compete with the big boys or just fall short? Overall it holds it's own and may be the best PC golf game for those just starting out on the virtual links.

The menus and interfaces are standard for this genre- I mean what else can you really modify beyond conditions, clubs and golf gear? The game options are also pretty standard- but the ability to choose between 12 types of play is unique (everything from medal to skins to best ball bloodsome). Gotta like that.

The graphics are good- very similar in respects to Links LS (I believe one of designers of Links LS worked on this program) and do give an excellent atmosphere. However the golfer (a 3D polygon rendering instead of the usual digitized video) looks too much like the mannequin in the pro shop (you know, the one that spots all the "hot" golf gear). The animation is a bit robotic- but kudos for attempting something new here.

The "Trueswing" swing control is great. I prefer it to those found in the other golf games since I don't need a mousepad the size of Texas to use it! For beginners the learning curve with this swing control is pretty brief- while it's an easier method of swing control it doesn't make the game easy. One still has to pay attention and keep a smooth rhythm in the swing process. Trueswing is the game's finest feature and I hope it gets carried over into Golf 99.

Golf 98 is a good game- just a shade below the top golf sims. With a little more polish on some of the graphics (especially the golfer) we're looking at one of the best overall golf sims on the market.

THE SCOUTING REPORT:

THE PROS:

• Good choice of courses- especially Coeur d' Alene!
  Graphics reminicent of Links LS, so they're pretty good.
  Trueswing swing control method is awesome.
  The ability to dress in plaid!
  Easy to use menus and game interfaces- very player friendly.
  Excellent selection of game options.

THE CONS:

• Looks like old Links LS!
  3D golfer looks too much like something modeling golf gear in a pro shop window.
  

Review by Steve Ellis