Mario Golf: A Retro Review

More than 20 years after its original release on Nintendo 64, the first “Mario Golf” has joined the titles on Nintendo 64 Online for the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. As the first of another spinoff series that would go on to become a beloved section of the “Mario” franchise in its own right, the game has made a great return to modern hardware.

Developed by Camelot Software, the game is a highly-engaging golf title featuring a wide variety of Mario characters alongside two golfers created for the game. Their names are Charlie and Plum. Rather than the simulation style of golf defined by the likes of EA’s “Tiger Woods Golf” and 2K Games’ “PGA 2K” series, Camelot takes an approach that mixes arcade-style gameplay with role-playing game progression. Both features would become key fixtures of future “Mario Golf” games, with golfers and courses being unlocked through gaining experience points and completing challenges for “Birdie Badges” in each hole. 

The visuals and sound are emulated in near-perfect quality, and the title still remains a deep and engaging experience long after its original release in 1999. The variety of course designs, along with a wide range of playstyles for each of the golfers makes for a large amount of replay value over 20 years since the game’s first release.

Overall, “Mario Golf” is well worth playing as part of the N64 Online service, sinking its shot in its new console and is an easy game to recommend.

Publisher: Nintendo

Developer: Camelot Software, Inc.

Platform: Nintendo 64 Online for Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack

ESRB Rating: E