The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary console released by Nintendo in the 1980s. However, before the NES became popular, Nintendo experimented with other consoles such as the Famicom Disk System and the Game Boy. One of the lesser-known consoles that is often overlooked by gamers today is the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) World Masters Golf.

World Masters Golf was a sports game released in 1994 for the SNES, developed by T&E Soft and published by Nintendo in Europe. The game was part of a series of golf games, but it stands out from other titles due to its innovative gameplay mechanics and high-quality graphics.

In this article, we will delve into the details of World Masters Golf, including its gameplay, features, and age rating. We will also explore why this game remains relatively unknown among gamers today.

Gameplay

World Masters Golf is a golf simulation game that features 18 holes set in some of the most iconic courses from around the world. The game's story mode follows the player as they compete in the World Masters Golf tournament, which takes place on five different courses: St Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Birkdale, Royal Lytham & St Annes, and Muirfield.

Gameplay involves hitting golf balls into each hole using a variety of shots, including drives, irons, and putts. The player must navigate the course, avoiding hazards such as sand traps and water features, while also trying to score as low as possible.

One of the standout features of World Masters Golf is its attention to detail. The game's graphics are impressive for its time, with detailed models of the courses' greens, fairways, and bunkers. The sound effects are also noteworthy, with realistic sounds of birds chirping and wind blowing through the trees.

Features

World Masters Golf includes several features that set it apart from other golf games of its era. One notable feature is its "wind" system, which affects the ball's flight in real-time. This adds a level of realism to the gameplay, making it feel more immersive and challenging.

Another feature worth mentioning is the game's use of analog controls. The SNES controller features two shoulder buttons that can be used to control the camera, as well as the left and right buttons on the faceplate to control the ball's movement. This allows for a high level of precision and control over the gameplay.

In addition to its innovative mechanics, World Masters Golf also includes several mini-games and challenges that add variety to the game. These include putting contests, driving competitions, and even a "hole-in-one" challenge that requires players to hit the ball into a small target on the green.

Age Rating

World Masters Golf was released in 1994, which means it is now classified as a "Mature 16+" (18) game under the Pan European Game Information (PEGI) rating system used in Europe. This classification indicates that the game contains violence, strong language, and other mature themes that may not be suitable for younger players.

In the United States, the game would have been rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). However, as of 2014, ESRB no longer rates games under this system. Therefore, it is unclear what age rating World Masters Golf would receive today if it were to be re-released in North America.

Why is World Masters Golf so unknown?

Despite its innovative gameplay mechanics and high-quality graphics, World Masters Golf remains a relatively unknown title among gamers today. There are several reasons for this:

1. Lack of marketing: Nintendo did not invest as much in marketing the SNES version of World Masters Golf compared to other titles on the console.
2. Limited availability: The game was only released in Europe and Japan, which limited its exposure to a wider audience.
3. Competition from other golf games: Other golf games, such as PGA Tour Golf and Tour de France Cycle Racing, received more attention and accolades during the 1990s, overshadowing World Masters Golf.

Conclusion

World Masters Golf is an innovative sports game that showcases the SNES's capabilities in a unique way. Its attention to detail, realistic sound effects, and innovative mechanics make it a standout title among golf games of its era. While it remains relatively unknown today, its legacy as a pioneering console game continues to be celebrated by gamers who appreciate its history and design.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in retro gaming, with many classic consoles and games being re-released on modern platforms. World Masters Golf's release on various digital storefronts, including the Nintendo eShop and Xbox Live Arcade, has helped introduce this title to new generations of gamers.

As we look back on the history of the SNES and its library of iconic games, it is clear that World Masters Golf is a hidden gem worth rediscovering.