Cursed to Golf

Developer: Chuhai Labs
Publisher: Thunderful Games
Platforms: Switch (Reviewed), Xbox One, Playstation 4, PC, Playstation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: Available Now
Price: $19.99 – Available Here

Overview

There is nothing I appreciate more from this industry than an original idea. Cursed to Golf merges the sport of golf with a 2D rogue-like to create something truly unique for platforms. With an original story and a lot of charm, does this little title hold its own or does it prove some things are better left apart? Let’s find out. 

Story 

Cursed to Golf’s narrative plays out exactly like you would expect. After being struck by lightning right before a big game, our protagonist gets stuck in a place called Golf Purgatory and must golf their way out of a dark, whimsical world in order to regain his life. Yeah, it’s a bit of a dark story, but one told tongue-in-cheek to remain as chipper as its lovely art style. You’re joined by the ghost of a caddie and must golf like your life depended on it in a clever tale of revival. As joyous as it sounds on paper, I do feel that the story could have been a bit more satisfying as due to the rogue-like twists, it doesn’t evolve very much until you get much farther into the game. Despite that, there still is a lot to like here, as it still is very memorable and unique as a whole product. 

Gameplay 

This is where most of Cursed to Golf’s magic can be found due to some well-thought-out mechanics. Players are set within each stage and must get the ball in the hole to move forward. It sounds simple, but the player is limited to a set number of shots. To top that off, the difficulty in nailing these shots up the drama of the game, as without precise aim, you will be cursed to die and repeat the same holes repeatedly. Adding to the difficulty is the rogue-like element, which has the player focusing on utilizing special strategies such as smashing statues and examining the world ahead in order to continue. 

To cure this difficulty, players can get power-ups that assist with shots, which are very useful and make use of in the form of cards. Abilities like the Rocketball can be used to get more momentum for your shot in tight spaces, while other power-ups can add more shots or more balls at once for a better chance of success. Simply finding and smashing statues or gaining cash can get more cards, which can deepen your techniques as you get closer to a hole.  There are a lot of holes (over 70), and the world is fun to explore – so most will enjoy the addictive and polished mechanics for what they are, as this title feels fit for fans of something a bit more pick-up and play.

That said, I did feel stuck back at the start a lot, as other than traveling through biomes, the game’s sense of progression is ultimately hurt by its core premise. There are some unique moments with bosses and such but getting to one can feel tedious due to the strict ball count and the reliance of trial and error. Again, this will be rewarding to most if they can overcome the obstacles ahead but may deter those looking for a more casual flow. 

Visuals 

Cursed to Golf feels like it would have been right at home on the Genesis or SNES with its 16-bit design. The stages are interesting and well designed, featuring fluid animations and sprites that are full of detail and personality. In a way, it feels like a perfect title to binge during the Halloween season, being reminiscent of Ghosts ‘n Goblins and the GBA Castlevania line. Sure, there could be a little more in terms of characters and such – but what is here works and no one should have any issue enjoying the sights to see within Purgatory. 

Audio 

The soundtrack is also great within this little gem. There is something special about hearing eerie howls during Cursed to Golf, as a lot of attention was paid to this area, and I think it will probably be just as memorable as the odd premise of the title for those that make the plunge. Sound effects are also on point, working with the music to create an atmosphere that captures the 16-bit art style well, giving this modern-day title some retro leanings for older gamers out there like myself. 

Overall 

Cursed to Golf isn’t perfect as I did have a couple of small hiccups with crashes during this review – but outside of the patchable, it may be one of the most difficult yet enjoyable titles to be released in a good while. Who knew being stuck golfing would be such a gnawing yet addictive experience? With a superb soundtrack and an original appeal, Cursed to Golf is one digital romp that is sure to capture a quick following due to its risky yet rewarding premise that proves some combinations are worth trying.  

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