Golf has come a long way in both the real and virtual worlds. And, I think, everyone will agree that Tiger Woods is the main reason for the sport’s success. Twenty years ago, if you weren’t a white, upper class and middle-aged man, you probably never thought twice about “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” Tiger Woods has indeed revolutionized the game and EA Sports latest release—Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf 2006—will certainly transform the video golf world. EA went back to the drawing board with their swing mechanics, effectively dissecting it and working on the elements that players felt needed improved while enhancing the ones that the players liked. The result is Tiger Woods 2006, which will be the golf game to beat this year. If you have the chance, play this game on the new Xbox. One word description: hotness! Tiger Woods 2006 puts you in control of one of nine different golfers, including the man himself. If not one of them strikes your fancy, then the deep Create-A-Player mode from previous games is returning. You’ll play through six different venues to play through, and the game will feature Live support for up to four players.

The biggest change in Tiger Woods 2006 is the revamped swing controls. In previous games, you would only use one analog stick to control your swing and your accuracy. Now in Tiger Woods 2006, you must use both analog sticks, with one controlling your swing and the other one controlling spin and ball control, making for a bit more challenge and overall authenticity. The putting system will also be revamped, but the folks at EA weren’t quite ready to comment on just how.
Graphically, Tiger Woods 2006 looks amazing on the Xbox 360. The character models are nearly photorealistic, but the environments are breathtaking, and absolutely teeming with detail. Water hazards will have realistic water effects and physics, as well as fish swimming under the surface. Trees will have realistic bump mapping, meaning that knots and bark will be well represented, giving you a real sense that you are right on the course. And if previous years are any indication, Tiger Woods 2006 shouldn’t look too shabby on the Xbox or PS2, either.
Tiger Woods 2006 is a great game and a real nice way for Microsoft to introduce their new XBox 360. I really think this is one of the few video games that helps you with your actual [golf] game because it creates great opportunities to play scenario golf. So grab your control and swing away!
Reviewed by Jimmy Blaze
Rating: 9.3 (out of 10)