Mini Review: Golden Tee Arcade Classics (PS5) – Nostalgic Novelty Misses the Sweet Spot

It’s quite surprising that games like Golden Tee Arcade Classics are available today, given the current surge in retro gaming. This isn’t meant as criticism – it’s just amazing to see these trackball titles, typically found between claw machines in American sports bars and eateries, now playable on a modern console such as the PS5 at home.

If you reside outside the U.S. and are unfamiliar with these arcade golf games, they can be likened to the actual version of the putting challenge featured in The Simpsons, as portrayed by the character Lee Carvallo.

Despite its basic structure, it was notably impressive when launched in 1995, boasting large, colorful character sprites and vividly designed courses.

Here you’ll find six distinct Golden Tee installments, each offering unique golf courses, voice clips, and subtle differences.

As a thrilled enthusiast, I’d like to share that this package comes with an extra treat – not one, but two additional trackball games: World Class Bowling and Shuffle Shot. The first one, as the name suggests, is all about bowling. The second one, Shuffle Shot, offers a unique experience reminiscent of curling or boules, but with a twist – instead of stones or balls, you’ll be maneuvering a puck-like object!

One challenge we face is that the PS5 doesn’t include a trackball controller, which means we may need to adjust our gaming experience to accommodate this lack.

In simpler terms, the primary control method requires you to move a cursor using an analog stick and mimic scrolling by moving a digital hand over a virtual ball. Unfortunately, this approach is as unsatisfying as it seems.

An alternative method leverages the DualSense’s touchpad, however, its size and precision are insufficient to accurately convey the tactile sensation it aims to simulate.

Instead, you’re left with the choice of using the aim assist feature, which mimics the classic click-click-click gameplay style seen in games like Everybody’s Golf. However, this significantly diminishes the game’s main appeal or distinctive advantage.

In this case, the main issue lies with the controls, as they fail to replicate the authentic “feel” of the arcade version when using a gamepad.

We’re fond of keeping these games easily accessible on modern systems, as they run smoothly due to advanced hardware. The CRT filters offer an exceptional experience, and given that it’s a Digital Extremes collaboration, you’ll find plenty of extra features, such as the original arcade flyers for your perusal in their entirety.

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2025-07-19 16:36