As one of the older franchises around, Links has been given new life in Microsoft’s XSN series. Much improved from past releases, Links 2004 offers a complete makeover from graphics down to putting. Although lacking the attention to detail that creates a realistic golf simulation, Links 2004 puts together a golf experience easy to pick up but short on substance.

Links 2004 offers the standard gameplay options but most of the single player features are focused around the career mode. As with most sports games you’ll start at the rookie level and work your way up. There are challenges such as chipping within a certain distance from the pin and regular tournaments where the winnings can be used to increase certain aspects of your golf game or unlock equipment that will improve your performance.

The gameplay is where most will either love or hate it however as striking the ball can be done with quite a bit of consistency. It’s rare to miss a fairway for instance and even though the left analog stick is used to initiate a club swing, the system is forgiving as the stick is pulled down until a power level is reached and then released. This same concept is used for chipping and putting which will probably not be enough challenge for those used to playing Tiger Woods PGA Tour. Links 2004 does offer an online option using Live! that helps to overcome the simplistic nature of the game. It functions as expected and may be a reason to purchase it as Tiger Woods PGA 2004 doesn’t have online options for the Xbox.

The graphics aren’t cutting edge but don’t distract from the game with well designed character models and environments. The commentary on the other hand was almost unbearable. Besides stating the obvious using the same phrases over and over, their sentences sound almost robotic and lacked any fluid flow.

Links 2004 offers an experience that will entertain those looking for an easy to pick up golf game but lacks the depth Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 offers. As long as the commentary doesn’t get under your skin, Links 2004 offers a decent option for those not interested in a detailed golf simulation.