Everybody's Golf for the PSP is one of the first times that the series has made its way to PAL beyond the PSOne. Most PAL gamers are unfamiliar with Everybody's Golf, but in America the console versions are up to their fourth edition, and are hugely popular. It's thus somehow fitting that, within a month of each other, PAL gamers are going to be treated to Everybodys Golf on the PSP, and Everybody's Golf 4 on the PS2.
Japan + Mario Golf = Everybody's Golf?
Everybody's Golf features six courses, ten new characters and five caddies. All the characters are fully customisable, with over 250 body parts, accessories, clubs and balls to choose from. Clubs and golf balls can also be upgraded, which will in turn improve control and accuracy. The overall upgradability of the game is to be commended, and although the console versions of Everybody's Golf actually feature more caddies and courses, there's still an admirable range here.
There are three main modes in the game. The first, the single-player mode, allows players to indulge in stroke play, as well as a tournament challenge. The Tournament Challenge mode is where characters and items are unlocked, and is the core element for single player. The Challenge mode is great fun and, funnily enough, can be quite difficult.
Nice Shot! Why, thank you
Thankfully, there's also a multiplayer mode, which is likely to get the most playtime. Assuming you have PSP owning friends, of course. This mode allows for up to eight players to play against each other wirelessly in a real-time tournament or a putting challenge. The multiplayer mode is extremely fun and helps to extend the lifespan of the game.
The third and much less exciting mode is the Training mode, which allows players to practice their skills on selected courses. The only time you're really likely to play this mode is if you're new to the game and don't know what to do, but even then it's possible you won't play it and hop straight into single player challenges.
The controls in the game are fairly similar to Mario Golf, with the circle button controlling the power. This ensures that it's simple to pick the game up and play immediately. Yet golf veterans will be pleased as there are a mountain of options for those who want a bit more depth. Both newbies and experienced players will be able to get into the game quick and easy.
Lovely water
The loading in the game is a little disappointing. For example, when trying to enter the game for the first time the player has to wait for the game to load, create a profile, choose a mode, then choose a character and finally a course. The whole process takes much longer than it should.
The game is fairly good looking as well. Whilst the golf courses are fairly small, the visuals are reminiscent of a Japanese cartoon. There is often not much happening on screen, but there was no slowdown in the game at all. There are small little effects littered throughout the game including mini fireworks and musical notes when you pull off a 'nice shot'.
Soundwise, the game carefully treads the fine line between repetitive and enjoyable; thankfully though, we're leaning towards the side of enjoyable. The voicework is fine, and the sounds are very appropriate - even when the player is losing the sound stays very positive, thus keeping the player calm.
Completing all that Everybody's Golf has to offer would take a long time. As mentioned earlier, there are a plethora of unlockables to keep gamers amused. The multiplayer support is the highlight of the game, and could last until the next Everybody's Golf game comes out (and let's hope it makes it to PAL shores).
Overall Everybody's Golf is a fun, fresh new game developed exclusively for the PSP. With full wireless support and a lengthy single-player mode, it's unlikely you'll find such an easily accessible game amongst the rest of the PSP launch games.
Those wanting a serious golf title may be better suited to Tiger Wood's PGA Tour, though. We think that if you took the country of Japan and mixed it with Mario Golf, you'd end up with Everybody's Golf. This could be one of the best multiplayer titles to own for the PSP - don't let this one get away, or we may not see a sequel in PAL regions.
This review is brought to you courtesy of Infinite Gameplay, with unlimited game rentals starting from $19.95 a month.
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