A fun, challenging game that sets the standard for golf games...
Tiger Woods 08 is a great looking game that plays smoothly and is enjoyable from start to finish. The options are extensive, with a variety of non-career minigames and challenges for when you don't feel like playing a full round of 18-holes.
I found the controls to be a dream. I often switched between the analog swing and the three-press depending on the shot. I loved having the option. The game manages to give you extensive control over your shots without overwhelming you or making it too easy. That's a difficult balance to pull off. Mastering the game takes some time and effort. Putting is a mixed bag. The game now allows one putt preview before taking a shot, but it's not always that helpful. I suppose for some it might make putting too easy, but I find I don't use it all that much.
The courses are diverse, and enjoyable. Some have complained about there not being enough, but I can't agree. The courses included provide a nice variety of challenges, and manage to stay distinctive.
Graphically, the game looks great. Model animations can be a bit off from time to time, but for the most part they look as good as they ever have in the series. And the Photo Game Face feature is amazing, if a bit hit-or-miss. Given the complexity of creating a model from 2D photos, I think the game does about as well as one could imagine. With some extra tweaking, and some luck, your model will look eerily like yourself.
I very rarely disagree substantially with Gamespot's reviews, but on this game I must. I think this is easily the best golf game available on any console, and its new features and updates are certainly worthwhile.
Highly recommended.