Zzap


Jack Nicklaus Golf
By Accolade
Commodore 64/128

 
Published in Zzap #51

Jack Nicklaus' Golf

As well as being one of the greatest golfers of all time, Jack Nicklaus designs golf courses. The 'Golden Bear' is such an expert on what makes a good golf hole, that he has selected his greatest 18 holes to be combined Accolade into one amazing course. There are also two of Jack's own courses to play on: Castle Pins and Desert Mountain.

Up to four players may compete, any number or all of which can be picked from the eight computer opponents (including Jack the lad himself). For human players there are two basic skill levels: beginner and expert (same old story the world over, eh, readers?). For the latter, wind conditions are worse and the player must select his own club for each shot. Players may also choose to play from one of three tees - Ladies', Men's or Pro at increasing distance from the hole.

Two types of match can be played: Stroke Play, where the aim is to shoot the lowest score for eighteen holes, and Skins where the winner of each hole wins a definable amount of prize money. Individual holes may also be practised, as can driving and putting.

Phil

Jack Nicklaus' Greatest 18 Holes Of Major Championship Golf

All golfing simulations have to be compared with the classic Leaderboard and Jack Nicklaus' Golf doesn't really measure up. The scenery is pretty blocky and often strangely coloured - Jack looks like he is teeing off from a light blue pond!

Shots seem equally easy whether playing from the fairway or a bunker, and putting is a piece of cake.

Despite the flaws, the game is fun for a few rounds. But then why get this when you can have Leaderboard instead?

Robin

Jack Nicklaus' Greatest 18 Holes Of Major Championship Golf

Is it just me or does it look like the ball is hit into outer space with every stroke? Is Jack the Lad really Superman in disguise? If so, he doesn't need a club, he could throw the ball further! Totally unrealistic ball movement aside the golf game within has (surprise, surprise) much of Leaderboard in it.

With trees, bunkers, hills and the like it might have come up to scratch but sadly this wasn't to be. Sluggish pace, generally chunky graphics, ineffectual sound and tediously slow screen update turn this into just another very average rendition of golf.

Let's hope Jack doesn't use this to help his game (judging by his performance in the recent American Masters, he probably did!)

Verdict

Jack Nicklaus' Greatest 18 Holes Of Major Championship Golf

Presentation 80%
Loadsa options and a comprehensive instruction manual.

Graphics 52%
Blocky scenery and a seriously weird colour scheme.

Sound 5%
Pardon? Was that click the club hitting the ball?!

Jack Nicklaus' Greatest 18 Holes Of Major Championship Golf

Hookability 53%
Play is unrealistic, although the controls are easy enough.

Lastability 60%
Up to four players and three courses maintain some long-term interest.

Overall 55%
Another mediocre golf sim - give us Leaderboard any day.