Games

Swing away

Golf for those who don�t take the game seriously

By Shaun Conlin

Did You Know : Some people believe that the word golf is an acronym for         �gentlemen only, ladies forbidden.�

GAME: Hot Shots Golf Fore
GAME TYPE: Golf simulation
PUBLISHER: Sony
GAME RATING: All
GAME HARDWARE: PlayStation 2
REVIEWER�S OPINION: 4 out of 5

If you�ve ever tried playing golf and found it as interesting and rewarding as trying to thread a needle blindfolded, check out Hot Shots Golf Fore.

Fourth in the series, Hot Shots golfing is all about goofy characters duffing away on one of many detailed cartoon courses. There�s even mini golf, if that�s your thing.

Although it�s fun, the game does manage to simulate the physics of whacking a small ball with accuracy, but Hot Shots is really all about having a good time, great animation and a golf club more powerful than a jet plane.

PASS THE PUTTER

Controls, as always, are accessible to everyone with a new �easy� play mode that would be better described as �way easy� mode. This version also marks the franchise�s first move towards online play, where like-minded players can play together and even join tournaments.

Refreshments are not included, but if you�re playing Hot Shots, your coffee table is probably close enough to act as a cup-holder in a golf cart. Highly recommended. � Cox News Service

Vocabulary

thread (v): in this use, to pass something long and thin, especially thread, through a narrow opening or hole
blindfold (v): to cover somebody�s eyes with a piece of fabric or other covering so that they cannot see
simulate (v): to create particular conditions that exist in real life using computers, models, etc.
whack (v): to hit somebody/something very hard
putter (n): (in golf) the type of club that is used for hitting the ball short distances