With cuter pixels and a new game engine, Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds offers gamers yet another worthy instalment to the favourite golf series. Out of Bounds is studio Clap Hanz's first PS3 title for the franchise, and their foray into new territory does not disappoint - fresh gameplay and new ideas makes this faithful instalment to the series a delight to both new comers and seasoned players.
One of the biggest changes in Out of Bounds is the introduction of the Advanced Shot Mechanic. Instead of watching the rise and fall of the traditional meter to determine the strength of a shot, the Advanced Shot Mechanic offers a three-click system that allows players to better focus on the golfer's motions.
While the new Advanced Shot Mechanic system is slightly more complicated, and getting good shots might take a while, I found it to be more satisfying than the traditional bar meter. For those who are playing Hot Shots Golf for the first time, the new mechanic should prove to be a more engaging system than compared to other golf games.
For gamers who have been around with the franchise for some time though, it might take a little getting used it. I'm quite inclined to say that for franchise fans, this new option might be your ticket to liking or hating Out of Bounds. But if you ever find yourself harbouring negative feelings, the traditional meter is always there and you can just switch back.
There is also a simple RPG element in Out of Bounds. Your golfer acquires Loyalty bonuses after each game, and their stats increase as the earn experience. While this is not a new concept, the addition of such a feature does increase the value of the game as you watch your golfers develop. Additional power-ups at each new attained level, such as a stronger shot power, also means that there is something to look forward to as you progress through the game.
Out of Bounds is also a very aesthetically pleasing game - the fairways and trees are beautiful, and the golfers get a makeover as well. The downside though, is that the game offers only six courses. Although you will no doubt have plenty of fun going through them, I thought that more courses to provide a little variety and to add on reply value won't hurt the game.
The Verdict
Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds is a well made, well thought-out and faithful instalment to the franchise, and if you are looking for and accessible, fun golf game with a serious twist on the casual graphics, this is it. The game's new features come across as easy to grasp and welcoming, so even those used to the 'old system' should not have too much to worry about.
