You know, it’s kind of funny to see how many golf-related games have arrived to the Nintendo Switch already. We haven’t even seen EA use its PGA licenses here yet (if they ever will) and we already have Infinite MiniGolf, Golf Story, a re-release of Neo Turf Masters, and now Party Golf. Unlike the others, though, Party Golf aims to be totally nuts; it’s a local multiplayer game first and foremost, and it has a million modes for players to goof around in.
Graphics
The visuals in Party Golf are clean and simple. The techno-esque background makes the game feel anything but static, and the trails that the golf balls create add an appropriately chaotic touch to the skies. The main menu also has a variety of videos showing you just how each of the many modes work in action, which is a neat touch.
Audio
Both the music and sound effects are just as soft. The former mainly consists of instrumental pop and techno pieces, and the latter has golf ball clicks and the celebratory sounds of entering a hole and winning. Neither prove to be harsh on the ears. I always look forward to the end of the round to hear the results pop up with its satisfying jingle.
Gameplay
The basic gameplay of Party Golf is in 2D, almost like a platforming game. You aim the trajectory of the ball with the left analog stick and “swing” it with the press of a button. Like actual golf, the name of the game is to hit the ball into the hole at the end of the stage. Unlike actual golf, everyone is swinging simultaneously to rush into the hole, and the additional rules that may be set up are bound to create laughs and battles alike.
What other modes are there, you ask? Well, there are things like making the balls different shapes, giving them powers, having the level scroll, avoiding mines, changes in how the game is to be scored, a constant change of modes every round, and the list goes ON. As overwhelming as it may sound, however, it’s an easy game to get into and have fun with no matter what option you decide to take.
Naturally, it’s not really ideal for solo play; there’s only so many times one can enjoy playing against AI opponents in a series of rounds (albeit they are at least challenging to face off against). This is by and large something to be enjoyed with friends and family, and my experience with it at PAX was a great demonstration how. Of course, I enjoyed it plenty more with my younger brother as we tried out the various modes for ourselves.
Verdict
Overall, Party Golf is another solid golf game on the Nintendo Switch. If you’re looking for a Switch game to play with others on the same couch, this game gets the job done well. You can even play with up to seven other players via single Joy-Con play! Just know that since there are only several rounds each session, the game’s mileage may be confined to short periods of time.
