As VR enthusiasts we’ve been playing Walkabout Mini Golf for years now, but we’ll gladly take a good mini golf game without having to use a VR headset – especially during the warmer months. Enter House of Golf 2, which brings a playful twist to the mini-golf genre, with a blend of accessible gameplay and family-friendly fun on the PlayStation 5. Developed by Starlight Games, this sequel aims to build on the charm of the original while introducing new features and challenges to keep players engaged. But does it manage to hit a hole-in-one?
At its core, House of Golf 2 thrives on its simplicity and accessibility. The premise is straightforward: players navigate a series of creatively designed courses, each presenting unique obstacles and puzzles. With over 100 holes to conquer, the game has a substantial amount of content to explore. These courses range from relatively simple designs to more intricate layouts that require precise timing and some thinking ahead and even strategizing. However, while the sheer number of holes offers variety, some players might find that the difficulty curve is inconsistent, with certain levels feeling more frustrating than challenging.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, House of Golf 2 is easy to pick up, with intuitive controls that make it accessible to players of all skill levels. The game’s physics engine is generally solid, providing a satisfying sense of weight and momentum as you navigate each course. However, there are moments when the physics can feel a bit inconsistent, leading to unexpected results that might frustrate players aiming for precision. This issue, while not game-breaking, can detract from the overall experience, especially during the more complex levels where accuracy is key. If you take it as a casual experience, however, this won’t matter much.
In addition to being fun in single player, House of Golf 2 also features a multiplayer component. The game is at its best when played with friends or family, offering a couch co-op experience that is both competitive and lighthearted. Up to four players can participate in a single session, making it an excellent choice for parties or casual game nights. The Trick Score System adds an extra layer of fun, encouraging players to experiment with trick shots and creative solutions to each hole. This system rewards skillful and risky play and can lead to some truly satisfying moments, particularly when you manage to pull off an unexpected shot.
However, the multiplayer focus also brings to light some of the game’s limitations. While the local multiplayer is engaging, House of Golf 2 lacks online multiplayer modes, which could have extended the game’s replayability. For a game that does so well with social interaction, the absence of online play feels like a missed opportunity, especially in an era where online connectivity is a staple for multiplayer experiences. We certainly loved playing it solo and in local multiplayer, but fans of online co-op will lament their relative lack of options.
Visually, House of Golf 2 adopts a colorful and cartoonish aesthetic that complements its lighthearted tone. The environments are varied and filled with charming details, from household items repurposed as obstacles to imaginative settings that add a sense of whimsy to each course. The game’s visuals, while not pushing the limits of the PS5’s capabilities, are polished and pleasant to look at, making it an appealing option for players who enjoy vibrant, playful graphics – which happen to go perfectly with mini golf.
The audio design in House of Golf 2 is functional, if not particularly memorable. The background music is cheerful and unobtrusive, setting a relaxed atmosphere for gameplay. Sound effects are similarly serviceable, providing the necessary feedback for each shot without standing out. So while the audio isn’t likely to leave a lasting impression, it fits well within the game’s overall casual and approachable design.
In conclusion, House of Golf 2 is a solid entry in the mini-golf genre, particularly for those who enjoy local multiplayer games. Its accessible gameplay, charming visuals, and Trick Score System provide plenty of entertainment, especially in a group setting. However, the game’s lack of online multiplayer, occasional physics quirks, and uneven difficulty curve may limit its appeal for some players. However, if you’re looking for a fun and casual mini golf game to enjoy with friends or family, House of Golf 2 is one of the best you’ll find.
Score: 7.5/10
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