Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2007 review: Tiger gets a hole in one

Tiger gets a hole in one
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Tiger gets a hole in one 17/04/07
by thelocaluk

I've always been a fan of the PGA games right back to the MegaDrive versions many moons ago, my love for it got rekindled on the PS2 when they introduced the analogue stick swing system.

Now it's been introduced to the Wii with a control system which would seem to complement the Wiimote perfectly.

Presentation

The presentation on this game left me feeling a little disapointed to be honest. It's not that it's terrible, far from it in fact but EA Sports have always prided themselves on their sleek menus and posh FMV cut scenes between events. Unfortunately it seems EA have been pushed for time while making this and overall it feels a little rushed, probably wouldn't be a factor in other games but EA usually have high standards in this department and the PS2's presentation looks a lot better.

Graphics

Again this has the same problem as above, in fact, it's a bit of a double edge sword. On the one hand the visuals look extremely close to the PS2 version with nice courses, a smooth frame rate and nice detailed golfers but there are a few differences. The Wii version seems slightly rough around the edges, this may be due to the fact the game doesn't support 480p we expect from Wii games but rather the standard 570i. This isn't an issue if you use the standard Wii AV cable that's bundled with the console but for component lead users it's a disapointment.

Also the sky, games have a prerendered sky that loops round to create one continuous skyline but on this game, occasionally, you can see the join. Again not a big problem but it's still a sign of EA rushing the game. Obviously Wii owners aren't that bothered with the graphics, otherwise you'd by a PS3 or 360 but it would still be nice if games developers do the best they can.

On the flipside this games features some of the best grass textures I've ever seen in a game and is miles better than it's PS2 counterpart. It really does look great.

Sound

There isn't usually a lot of noise during a round of golf but all the sound are here and are brilliantly done. The crowds cheer, the sounds of the water running down the stream, the wind and the very satisfying "THWACK" through the Wiimote speaker as you hit the ball. The commentry is also well done, overall a great job.

Gameplay

This is what makes or breaks a game and I'm pleased to say it makes this one. Although it's common knowledge that EA have been struggling with these new controls they have got it spot on. Hooking and slicing is difficult to come to terms with at first but once mastered you'll be swinging like a pro. It really is good. Only criticism I have (and it's only minor) is that trying to take the power off a shot can be a little tricky sometimes but this is only a slight niggle that doesn't really spoil the game.

Lifespan

This game is huge with 18 courses to master, loads of arcade modes and other game modes which will keep you coming back for months. Brilliant.

Presentation 85%
Graphics 82%
Sound 92%
Gameplay 93%
Lifespan 96%

Overall 92%