Developer: Mighty Coconut
Publisher: Mighty Coconut
Release Date: 11th May 2023
Platforms: PS VR2 (already on Quest 2 & PC VR)
Reviewed on: PS VR2
▫️ Code provided by the publisher ▫️
The chances are if you have kept up with the VR space over the last few years or listened to our podcast for any extended period of time, you will already be aware of Walkabout Mini Golf. First released in 2020 on Meta Quest 2 and then on Steam in 2021, the game has a habit of putting a smile on the face of anyone who plays it. Finally now with the launch of the PS VR2 version, PlayStation fans can join the party.
The gameplay mechanics in Walkabout Mini Golf are intuitive and easy to pick up, making it accessible to those familiar with a putter and newcomers alike. Every aspect of the swing feels natural and responsive. There is even a slight vibration on the controller when you connect with the ball which tricks the brain into making you feel the strike of the ball. Speaking of the ball, the physics are perfect, with the ball always reacting to shots and ricochets exactly how you would expect. Because of this pinpoint accuracy, Walkabout Mini Golf can go from a fun, casual game to a competitive battle depending on the situation.
Movement by default is set to teleport. In most titles, I would switch that to free movement immediately, but here I find it works better. A squeeze of the R2 button automatically teleports you straight to your ball as well, so there is no awkward shuffling around trying to get into position. I only recently found out that you can also hover in the air and fly around each course, which is just as much fun as it sounds.
With the mechanics nailed, the focus moves over to the courses. Since 2020, Mighty Coconut has supported the game with non-stop content. There are 8 courses in the base game, with a further 8 harder versions of each one that unlocks by gaining a score of par or better in each one. Additionally, to date, another 10 DLC courses have been released, with each one also offering a harder version. The design of these courses is magnificent. From a more traditional (ish) course like Tourist Trap, to the underwater Atlantis, to a recent release in Upside Town, where you often have to hit shots from the wall or ceiling.
Each course is beautifully crafted. It could be argued that the graphics are a little basic, but they are more than serviceable. The vibrant colour schemes and design choices make each course look unique and engaging. It would have been easy for the team to reuse assets and release new content that looked similar to what came before, but each new release feels unlike anything that came before. Flying up into the air and looking at each course as almost a miniature is a sight to behold.
Walkabout Mini Golf can be played solo or with friends. Usually, I would have no interest in playing online with friends, but this is absolutely the exception to the rule. Hopping on with a friend and just having a catch-up while getting a few rounds in is a blast and honestly some of the most fun I have had playing online. The game also offers cross-play, so you can link up with your friends on Quest 2 or PC. If you do wish to play alone though, you’ll still have a blast with the huge amount of unique holes.
The fun doesn’t stop there though. Each hole has a hidden ball that you can search around for. These are often well hidden, but worth going out of your way for as you can then add them to your collection and they become available to use in future rounds. This is especially fun in multiplayer, as you can be on the hunt while your opponent is agonising over their next shot. There are also fox hunts, which you can undertake in order to unlock new clubs.
The audio in Walkabout Mini Golf is well-crafted and immersive. From chirping birds and crashing waves to the satisfying clink of the ball hitting the putter, the audio elements effectively complement the immersion. The background music sets a relaxing tone and doesn’t distract from the gameplay. While not initially feeling memorable, you’ll catch yourself humming it randomly at work or around the house.
VALUE: Like with literally every other aspect, Mighty Coconut has nailed it on pricing. The base game can be picked up for £11.99 with DLC courses available for £2.49 each. Even better, if playing with a friend only one of you has to own a DLC course to invite the other in to play. However, I highly recommend going the extra mile and getting the Whole In One edition for £28.99 which gives you access to all the content currently available. (Buy Now)
Overall, Walkabout Mini Golf is a fantastic package. The game is an absolute joy to play, managing to strike the perfect balance between being inviting for newcomers and constantly rewarding for hardcore fans. I have been a big fan of VR dating back to the launch of the PS VR in 2016, playing most big titles in the years that followed. Walkabout Mini Golf is hands down my favourite VR game to date. A must-buy.
-Craig
