Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Arcade, Racing, Sport
- Platforms: Arcade, Family Computer, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, Wii U
- Developers: HAL Laboratory, Nintendo R&D2
- Publishers: Nintendo
NES Open Tournament Golf: Tee Off with Mario and Friends
Released in 1991 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, NES Open Tournament Golf is a charming and challenging golf game featuring Mario and his pals. As one of the earliest golf games in the Mario series, it laid the foundation for future golf titles and introduced innovative gameplay mechanics that are still used today.
Gameplay: A Swinging Good Time
NES Open Tournament Golf offers a realistic and enjoyable golf experience, featuring three distinct courses: the U.S. Open, the Japan Open, and the U.K. Open. Each course presents its own unique set of challenges, from lush fairways to treacherous bunkers and water hazards.
Players can choose to play as Mario, Luigi, Princess Toadstool, or Toad, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The game features two main modes: Stroke Play and Match Play. In Stroke Play, the goal is to complete each hole with the fewest strokes possible, while in Match Play, players compete against each other to win the most holes.
The gameplay combines an overhead view for setting up shots and selecting clubs with a 3-D perspective for executing shots. The innovative power meter allows players to control the power, slice, and hook of their shots with precision.
Graphics and Sound: Pixel-Perfect Putting
NES Open Tournament Golf showcases the graphical capabilities of the NES, with detailed sprites and colorful backgrounds. The courses are visually distinct, with rolling hills, water features, and towering trees. The character animations are fluid and expressive, capturing the personalities of the Mario characters.
The sound design complements the visuals, with catchy music and realistic sound effects. The crowd cheers and groans add to the atmosphere, making players feel like they’re in a real-life golf tournament.
Multiplayer Madness: Teeing Off Together
One of the highlights of NES Open Tournament Golf is its two-player multiplayer mode. Friends and family can compete against each other in either Stroke Play or Match Play, adding an extra layer of excitement and rivalry to the game.
Legacy and Impact: A Hole-in-One for Golf Gaming
NES Open Tournament Golf was a critical and commercial success, selling over two million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive multiplayer mode. The game’s success paved the way for future Mario golf titles, including the popular Mario Golf series on the Nintendo 64 and GameCube.
NES Open Tournament Golf is more than just a golf game; it’s a nostalgic reminder of the early days of Nintendo and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mario franchise. Whether you’re a seasoned golf enthusiast or a casual gamer, NES Open Tournament Golf offers a timeless and enjoyable golf experience.
Tips for the Greens:
- Master the power meter: The power meter is key to hitting accurate and powerful shots. Practice timing your button presses to achieve the desired distance and trajectory.
- Choose the right club: Different clubs are suited for different distances and situations. Experiment with each club to find the best one for each shot.
- Read the greens: Pay attention to the slope and undulations of the greens. This will help you determine the correct line and speed for your putt.
- Don’t be afraid to use spin: Backspin and topspin can be used to control the trajectory and distance of your shots. Experiment with different spin techniques to master the greens.
- Play with friends: NES Open Tournament Golf’s multiplayer mode is a blast. Challenge your friends and family to a round of golf and see who comes out on top.
Review Score
8/10
Art
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