Mean Machines


Zany Golf
By Electronic Arts
Sega Mega Drive (EU Version)

 
Published in Mean Machines #2

Zany Golf

Golf is a game of skill, practised by such idols and role models as Jimmy Tarbuck and Bruce Forsyth. Luckily this game has nothing to do with Country Clubs and acres of land with sandpits, but the variety known as Crazy Golf. This involves knocking the ball around bizarre courses, which are represented in this game. Windmills, burgers, castles and even pinball tables make an appearance in the sixteen "holes" that comprise the challenge.

Although only part of the course is shown at once, scrolling the cursor allows the whole hole (groan) to be seen. By placing the cursor on the ball, holding down the button and pulling back, the ball is hit in a similar way to drawing an arrow in a bow.

As in "real" golf, each hole has to be completed in a certain number of strokes. If, however, a round is finished in under the limit, extra strokes are awarded for the next hole.

Tommy Goes Zany

Zany Golf

The wacky third round features, of all things, a pinball table complete with flippers and bumpers. The idea is to knock the ball into the table then use the flippers to gain extra strokes. It's not easy, but perseverance reaps rewards - the holes get much harder later on, and any extra strokes come in very handy indeed!

Julian

Zany Golf is a great simulation of the strange seaside golfing game, with all sorts of amazing obstacles to get the ball through. I particularly like the pinball screen and the multi-track green with high-powered fans which blow the ball around!

The graphics and sound are both excellent, and it's amazingly addictive when you first start playing. However, the fact that there are only sixteen screens makes me question its lasting appeal.

Zany Golf

Zany Golf is certainly great fun - but if you buy it, don't expect to be playing it in a month's time.

Matt

Many years ago, before the last ice-age, I went on a holiday to Majorca with some mates. A Crazy Golf tournament was held to the wonderment of all (although I lost a fortune on the side bets!).

Anyway, this sport has a special place in my heart as a result, and I was thrilled to see the game on the Megadrive. It's a great game, with fun courses and a very accurate ball movement. It can be annoying to be sent right back to the first level, but this helps to stop the game from being too easy.

Zany Golf

It's best when played with others, making it more of a competition. Recommended.

Verdict

Presentation 82%
Once finished, this will have little to recommend it - but it's one that your parents will love to play.

Graphics 78%
Nothing too flashy, but shows the wacky nature of the game.

Zany Golf

Sound 70%
Good fun, but the scrolling can be a little bizarre. Ball movement is superb though.

Playability 82%
Pretty basic effects with hummable ditties to add to the loopy gameplay!

Lastability 68%
Easy to control and has great potential as a multi-player game.

Overall 74%
Zany's the name and zany's the game! A great idea that hasn't quite got enough levels to make it outstanding.