Summary
- Release Year: 1979
- Genres: Simulator, Sport, Strategy
- Platforms: Atari 2600
- Developers: Atari
- Publishers: Atari
Miniature Golf (1979): A Retro Classic
Miniature Golf is a computer game simulation of a miniature golf course, released in 1979 for the TRS-80 and Commodore PET computers. It was one of the first computer games to feature realistic physics and gameplay, and it remains a popular classic today.
The game is played on a nine-hole miniature golf course, with each hole featuring a variety of obstacles, such as windmills, ramps, and sand traps. The player must use a putter to hit the ball into the hole in as few strokes as possible.
Miniature Golf features two game modes: a single-player mode and a two-player competitive mode. In single-player mode, the player can choose to play against a computer opponent or to practice on their own. In two-player mode, two players can compete against each other on the same course.
The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and the gameplay is challenging and addictive. Miniature Golf is a great way to practice your putt-putt skills or to compete against a friend.
Gameplay
The goal of Miniature Golf is to hit the ball into the hole in as few strokes as possible. The player can use the arrow keys to move the putter back and forth, and the spacebar to hit the ball. The strength of the hit is determined by how far back the player pulls the putter.
The ball will roll and bounce around the course, depending on the terrain and the obstacles in its path. The player must use their skill and judgment to avoid the obstacles and get the ball into the hole.
Obstacles
There are a variety of obstacles on the Miniature Golf course, including:
- Windmills: Windmills can block the player’s shot or blow the ball off course.
- Ramps: Ramps can be used to jump over obstacles or to get the ball closer to the hole.
- Sand traps: Sand traps can slow down the ball or cause it to bounce unpredictably.
- Water hazards: Water hazards can cause the ball to sink or to be carried away by the current.
Power-ups
There are also a few power-ups that can help the player on the course, including:
- Extra stroke: This power-up gives the player an extra stroke on the current hole.
- Speed boost: This power-up increases the speed of the ball.
- Wind control: This power-up allows the player to control the direction and strength of the wind.
Legacy
Miniature Golf was one of the first computer games to feature realistic physics and gameplay. It was also one of the first games to feature a two-player competitive mode. The game was a critical and commercial success, and it remains a popular classic today.
Miniature Golf has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Apple II, Atari 8-bit family, and IBM PC. It has also been released on modern platforms, such as Steam and GOG.com.
The game has inspired a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Miniature Golf II (1981), Miniature Golf Deluxe (1988), and Miniature Golf Masters (1994).
Conclusion
Miniature Golf is a fun and challenging classic that still holds up today. It’s a great way to practice your putt-putt skills or to compete against a friend. If you’re a fan of miniature golf or classic video games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Miniature Golf.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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