Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots, priced at $39.99 and reviewed on the PlayStation 5 Pro, is the latest installment in the beloved sports franchise. Also available on PC and Nintendo Switch, this game continues the series’ tradition of combining solid golf mechanics with whimsical, anime-style characters. This time, the addition of RPG elements and a rich single-player experience adds a refreshing layer to the traditional golf gameplay, ensuring players remain engaged for hours. However, the game’s presentation feels basic, and the courses lack diversity, yet it still stands out as one of the year’s better sports games.
A Familiar Game Returns with New Twists
Long-time fans may recognize Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots by its former North American name, Hot Shots Golf, first introduced in 1997. The series adopted the name Everybody’s Golf globally in 2017, aligning with regional naming conventions similar to Sega’s Like a Dragon and Yakuza series merger. Despite the name changes, the core gameplay remains familiar. Players, whether fans of previous entries or similar games like Mario Golf: Super Rush, will find the rules unchanged: players take turns attempting to sink a ball into holes using the fewest strokes possible.
Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots employs the traditional three-button swing system, a staple in golf video games. Players initiate their swing with one button, set the ball’s flight distance with another, and finalize the power with a third. While some shots are straightforward, others demand consideration of factors such as weather, wind, and ball spin. This depth is where the game excels, offering a blend of arcade and simulation-style experiences that appeal to a wide range of players.
RPG Elements Enhance Single-Player Modes
The game’s single-player modes, Challenge Mode and World Tour, are enriched with light RPG elements that captivate players. In the World Tour mode, players control a golfer navigating through missions complete with cutscenes and story arcs. Characters, though generic in appearance, have entertaining plotlines. For instance, Mizuki is a moody teen battling dark forces, while Jasmine is on a quest for love. Although not as deep as Golf Story, these narratives add a charming touch to the game.
Completing missions unlocks various rewards such as costumes, clubs, balls, characters, and caddies, which can be purchased with in-game currency. These items provide stat boosts, allowing players to customize their golfers’ abilities. Challenge Mode offers tournament-style gameplay, where players compete in nine or 18-hole tournaments to earn experience and unlock new characters and items.
“Each golfer has their own specialties and proficiencies, but you can use food items to grow their skills. Each meal boosts Power, Control, Impact, Spin, and Sidespin.”
Additionally, players can build Trust with caddies, unlocking support stickers that temporarily enhance stats during gameplay. With seven caddies and 30 golfers to choose from, players have ample opportunity to explore different combinations and strategies.
Multiplayer Options and Presentation Challenges
For those seeking competition beyond AI opponents, Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots offers traditional online multiplayer matches and tournaments. Players can create lobbies to play with friends or join quick matches against random opponents, adding a social dimension to the game.
Despite the game’s engaging content, its presentation leaves room for improvement. The environments, while varied, become repetitive, with courses cycling frequently. Occasional tweaks like rain or nighttime settings offer some variety, but more unique courses reflecting the characters’ personalities would enhance the experience.
Wacky Golf, a new party mode, introduces quirky match modifiers like Boom Golf, where hidden land mines send balls flying. While these are amusing distractions, they may not hold long-term appeal. The game’s visuals also fall short, with character models and environmental elements appearing jagged and fuzzy at times, detracting from the overall experience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Everybody’s Golf
Despite its shortcomings, Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots delivers a fun and engaging experience, particularly for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The integration of RPG elements and robust single-player content sets it apart from other sports games, offering a unique blend of whimsy and strategy. As the franchise continues to evolve, future installments could benefit from enhanced graphics and more varied course designs, further solidifying its place in the world of sports gaming.
As players continue to explore the game’s offerings, the potential for growth and innovation remains promising. Whether through updates or future releases, Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots lays a solid foundation for the series’ continued success.
