Mario Golf: Advance Tour

"Mario scores a Hole-in-One"

Introduction

When Mario Golf came out for Gameboy Color, it was a huge hit. People never thought that a golf game could ever be so much fun. The RPG element in the game changed everything. Along with Mario Golf, Mario Tennis was released. Tennis was also changed on handheld video games. And now Mario Golf: Advanced Tour has lived up to its expectations and more. With even more features then ever, Mario Golf has taken the Gameboy Advance power to the max.

Gameplay: 10/10
This game is just plain addictive, arguably one of the most addictive games on Gameboy Advance. You start out with 2 characters, Neil and Ella, and choose one of the players. This does not mean that you can't leave out the other, though. In double competitions, you will need your teammate; you will have to level out the experience points from each. With a bit of role-playing element in the game, there's a reason to go back and do the courses that you have already done to gain experience and growing levels. You can improve your stats by growing levels, and make your drive shot farther, make your shot more accurate, put a better spin on your shot, etc. The possibilities are nearly endless. The game may seem a little on the short side if anything, but there are so many extras that you can do. You can go back and do some mini games, or just try to shoot for a better score. Also, the multiplayer is nice. I didn't have a chance to play multipak, but playing on one Gameboy with about 2 players is fun. 4 players isn't too exciting, since you have to keep handing off the Gameboy to each other. It is entertaining, though.

Graphics: 8/10
Crisp, clean graphics. Bold graphics, not edgy and blocky characters. The only problem with these graphics is sometimes it seems arguable where the ball landed. It make seem like it's clearly on the fairway, and than it says that its in a bunker. Other than that, the graphics are easy to see, you won't have any problems with that.

Sound: 8/10
Not much to say on the sound…normal music, not much exciting about it….but it's definitely not bad. I personally don't care about listening to the music in the Gameboy….no annoying voices or anything…….and pretty good quality, too. Nintendo didn't just throw a bunch of stupid songs in.

Buy or Rent: Buy
This game is definitely a buy. You don't even have to enjoy golf to enjoy this game. I didn't know much about golf until I played this, and I learned a lot more. When I watch golf now, I can understand a lot of things I never knew before. And if you don't know the terms, this game has a glossary to help you out. You will probably get the hang of it pretty quick anyways.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 07/23/04