Play this game, just dont expected to be wowed beyond belief.
There have been some changes. For one, the graphics are smooth and silky. The swing mechanic has changed for the better, and provides a more realistic experience while not taking away the fun in playing and the accuracy you could get from the swing mech in the previous games. The original swing mech is in the game, but i highly recommend using the new mech.
The offline component is fun until you start repeating courses. This is about once you get the 3rd level (or Pro level) characters. But the thing that makes HSG OB way better than previous installments is the online. It is fun, easy to use, and with updates coming, we can expect to see improvements that'll make online even better. The only thing i dont like about online is only being able to input messages via text, and you have to input it as though you were inputing a cell phone text message, which is difficult on the PS3. If an update provided the ability to talk via headset, it would be a lot more fun and convenient for the players.
I would demo this game first, but i think most people will find the game fun, easy to pick up, and hard to put down.