Nintendo Switch Critic Reviews

While the core game itself shows its age, both in the visuals and partially as a result of the latter, in the gameplay stakes, the heap of additions and options added to this latest release of the Neo Geo cult classic help soften the deal, as it is clear what kind of audience re-releases of such old titles are geared towards: fans of retro games in general or of the Neo Geo/arcade titles in particular. As such, it does not disappoint in the slightest as it remains still a thoroughly playable and enjoyable experience that was in its time amongst the finest golf games available, but also one of the more accessible. Naturally, being a Neo Geo title at heart, Neo Turf Masters is still a very challenging one, and newcomers to the genre of video game golfing should not pick this one as their starting point, since it does not at all explain all the parameters that they should look out for before they hit the ball. Knowing the ins and outs of golf, either video game golf or the real sport, is a requirement for sure, lest the player be in for a steep learning curve. For all other players looking for some retro golf action at home and on the go thanks to the Switch, look no further!

I think Neo Turf Masters is a really neat game, but it doesn’t have the content to last longer than a weekend. Unless you get wrapped up in the high-score chase, it doesn’t have depth. However, this is a faithful reproduction of a cool ‘90s arcade game, so if you just want to have access to that at home and on the go, this version is a veritable hole-in-one. I’m sorry. I waited the whole review until unleashing a dumb golf pun.

Neo Turf Masters is a long way off being the most authentic golf simulation ever made but that doesn't diminish its intrinsic appeal; the gameplay is instantly gratifying and the challenge considerable, especially if you want the satisfaction of coming top on each of the four courses. However, like so many games developed for an arcade environment it is perhaps best sampled in short bursts, either solo or with a friend; there's no career mode to speak of and if you don't see the appeal of bettering your own score or playing with other people, you might get bored within the space of an evening.

The presentation in general is great, and the challenge level is oddly compelling. This is a difficult game to put down.