Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 for the GameCube offers a mixed bag of both appreciation and critique for retro gaming enthusiasts. Developed and published by EA Sports, this golf game introduces the revolutionary EA SPORTS Game Face feature, allowing players to create their own custom golfer and take on the pros. While this unique feature brings a thrilling aspect of personalization to the game, there are several aspects that may leave players feeling unsatisfied.
One of the redeeming qualities of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 is its roster of well-known golfers. Players have the opportunity to play as or against over a dozen top pros, including the legendary Tiger Woods himself, Vijay Singh, Justin Leonard, and the addition of new golfers like John Daly and Adam Scott. This inclusion of familiar faces adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of classic golf games.
Additionally, five new courses have been integrated into the game, alongside beloved favorites such as Pebble Beach Golf Links and St Andrews Golf Links. These courses provide a diverse range of challenges and beautifully capture the essence of the sport. Coupled with graphical and gameplay enhancements, players have more ball control and experience more realistic weather and terrain conditions. These improvements contribute to the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game.
Furthermore, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 offers an expanded Career Mode, allowing players to take their created golfer on a World Tour to earn money and sponsorships. This feature enhances the replayability of the game, providing players with the opportunity to progress and improve their skills.
However, despite these positive aspects, there are some significant downsides to consider. The graphics, while improved for its time, may appear outdated to modern gamers. The visuals lack the polish and refinement seen in contemporary golf games, potentially affecting the overall gaming experience.
Furthermore, the gameplay mechanics may leave players feeling frustrated. While the added ball control is a welcome feature, there are instances where the controls feel clunky and imprecise. This can lead to moments of frustration and hinder the enjoyment of the game.
In terms of online play, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 provides the option for matches and tournaments, along with the ability to climb the leaderboards. However, given the age of the game, it is unlikely that there is still an active online community, limiting the multiplayer experience.
Overall, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 for the GameCube holds a certain charm for retro gaming enthusiasts. The inclusion of the EA SPORTS Game Face feature, the roster of notable golfers, and the variety of courses create a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic golf games. However, the outdated graphics, occasionally clunky controls, and limited online play hinder the game's overall appeal. Retro gamers with an appreciation for golf games may find enjoyment in revisiting this title, but for others, it may not quite hit the mark.
