IGF 2002: Microsoft announces Links 2003

Today at the International Games Festival in Las Vegas, Microsoft announced Links 2003, the newest installment in its long-running and immensely popular golfing franchise. Among the changes to be included in Links 2003 are six brand-new courses, an updated graphics engine, and new shot-making options. PGA golfer Sergio Garcia, who graced the cover of Links 2001, returns to headline this newest Links.

The enhanced graphics engine of Links 2003 will be able to render courses and environments with the highest level of detail yet in a Links game, and just like its predecessors, this game will use photo-realistic textures for the grass, sand, and water on the courses. The designers used global positioning satellite (GPS) technology in modeling all the courses in Links 2003 in order to ensure the highest level of realism possible. While Links 2003 will be compatible with earlier official and user-created courses from previous Links games, there will be six brand-new golf courses from Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, and the US in this game, although those courses have yet to be revealed.

Clearly, Links 2003 is being developed for armchair golfers of all skill levels. The game will include an option to swing using the classic triple- or double-click method that the series established nearly a decade ago, as well as the new "powerstroke" method, which is based on performing a sweeping motion with your mouse. Links 2003 will also have an updated tutorial that'll teach newcomers the basics of driving, chipping, and putting, as well as more complex lessons that involve dissecting the mechanics of a swing.

Microsoft has also improved the online capabilities of this newest Links game, as players will now be able to instantly jump into a match at the click of a button by using Links 2003's "match maker" option. Of course, all the multiplayer functionality of previous Links games is being retained, including Links tour and online stats.

Links 2003 is scheduled for release in North America by the end of the year.