Summary
- Release Year: 1988
- Genres: Simulator, Sport
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Apple IIGS, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, Mac, MSX, Nintendo Entertainment System, PC-8800 Series, Sharp X68000, TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine
- Developers: Sculptured Software
- Publishers: Accolade, Cross Media Soft, Konami, Victor Musical Industries
Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest 18 Holes of Major Championship Golf (1988)
Introduction
Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest 18 Holes of Major Championship Golf is a golf simulation video game developed by Sculptured Software and published by Accolade in 1988. The game features simulations of eighteen holes from renowned golf courses in the United States, Scotland, and England, as well as two complete Nicklaus-designed 18-hole courses. It also bears the name and likeness of American professional golfer Jack Nicklaus, who was at the height of his career when the game was released.
Gameplay
The game offers a variety of gameplay modes, including stroke play, match play, and skins. Players can compete against computer opponents of varying skill levels, or they can take on a friend in head-to-head competition. The game also features a practice mode, which allows players to hone their skills on any of the eighteen holes.
The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. Players use the directional pad to move their golfer around the course, and the A button to swing the club. The game also features a variety of camera angles, which allows players to get a better view of the course and their shots.
Courses
The game features simulations of eighteen holes from some of the most famous golf courses in the world, including:
- Augusta National Golf Club (four holes)
- Pebble Beach Golf Links (three holes)
- The Old Course at St Andrews (three holes)
- Riviera Country Club (two holes)
- Baltusrol Golf Club (two holes)
- Oakmont Country Club (one hole)
- Merion Golf Club (one hole)
- Muirfield (one hole)
- Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club (one hole)
In addition to these classic courses, the game also includes simulations of two complete Nicklaus-designed 18-hole courses: The Castle Pines Golf Club and The Golf Club at Desert Mountain.
Graphics and Sound
The game’s graphics are impressive for the time, and the courses are rendered in great detail. The game also features realistic sound effects, which help to create a immersive experience.
Reception
Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest 18 Holes of Major Championship Golf was a commercial success for Jack Nicklaus Productions and Accolade. The game was praised for its realistic gameplay, challenging courses, and impressive graphics. It was also a critical success, and it received positive reviews from major gaming publications.
The game was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2013. It is considered to be one of the greatest golf video games of all time.
Legacy
Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest 18 Holes of Major Championship Golf spawned a number of sequels and adaptations. Accolade published numerous versions of the game for different platforms, including the NES, SNES, Genesis, and Game Boy. The game was also ported to personal computers, including the Amiga, Atari ST, and DOS.
The game’s success helped to popularize golf video games, and it is still considered to be one of the best golf games ever made. It is a classic game that is still enjoyed by golfers of all ages.
Conclusion
Jack Nicklaus’ Greatest 18 Holes of Major Championship Golf is a classic golf simulation game that offers a challenging and realistic golfing experience. The game features simulations of eighteen holes from some of the most famous golf courses in the world, as well as two complete Nicklaus-designed 18-hole courses. The game’s simple controls and impressive graphics make it a great choice for golfers of all skill levels.
Review Score
8/10
