Games Database
PC
Sport: Golf
| Viewed: | 3D Third-person, over the shoulder | Genre: | Sport: Golf |
| Media: | CD | Arcade origin: | No |
| Developer: | Microsoft | Soft. Co.: | Microsoft |
| Publishers: | Microsoft
(GB/US) |
Released: | 2000
(US) Nov 2000 (GB) |
| Ratings: | 3+, ESRB Teen 13+ (T) |
Summary
Since the days of World Class Leader Board, the surprisingly popular golf simulator has welcomed numerous overhauls in attempts to recreate a realistic atmosphere. In an era when the majority of games are rendered in 3D, it seems unusual that Microsoft would retain 2-dimensional renders for their infamous Links series. However, the visual detail of their latest instalment, Links 2001, is quite astonishing. The pre-rendered backdrops look photo-realistic, and character animations are of equal quality.
However, the primary goal of Links 2001 is to be an accurate simulator, and the ball physics within the game are something to behold. Upon striking the ball, it is possible to see its trajectory right up until it hits the ground again, such is the level of detail. Because of the game’s realism, Links 2001 becomes automatically difficult, and getting around one of the game’s six courses within par is a challenging task for any player or fan of the sport. Those of you looking for a little extra for Links 2001 will come across a stand-alone disk in the package, containing a unique course designer, courtesy of Arnold Palmer.
Over all, this millennium version of the sport is among the most extensive and comprehensive in the series to date. With six 18-hole courses, unique golfer personalities, and a new course editor, Microsoft have shown once again why they are one of the world’s competent companies. Links 2001 is a polished title that will set a new benchmark for the interactive sport.
However, the primary goal of Links 2001 is to be an accurate simulator, and the ball physics within the game are something to behold. Upon striking the ball, it is possible to see its trajectory right up until it hits the ground again, such is the level of detail. Because of the game’s realism, Links 2001 becomes automatically difficult, and getting around one of the game’s six courses within par is a challenging task for any player or fan of the sport. Those of you looking for a little extra for Links 2001 will come across a stand-alone disk in the package, containing a unique course designer, courtesy of Arnold Palmer.
Over all, this millennium version of the sport is among the most extensive and comprehensive in the series to date. With six 18-hole courses, unique golfer personalities, and a new course editor, Microsoft have shown once again why they are one of the world’s competent companies. Links 2001 is a polished title that will set a new benchmark for the interactive sport.
