No doubt with the 'popular' Australian Open being televised recently, gamers are looking for a golf game to satisfy their cravings (instead of course, going outside and actually playing a round). However, with somewhat slim pickings within the Xbox's golf library, has EA Sports' latest golf incarnation filled the niche that Xbox gamers are looking for?

With the release of the 2006 edition, there have been a few significant changes to the game (and surprisingly, it isn't just altering the game's name to 2006) and also some refinement of other aspects. This years version feels like the natural evolution of the game, rather than a complete overhaul. While this will please fans of the Tiger Woods series of games', they will need to seriously think about whether or not the game has improved enough from the previous versions to warrant a purchase. For those new to the Tiger Woods franchise and looking for a slick, polished golf game- look no further, as this game is for you.

The most notable improvement is to the dual analogue shot control system. This means that your swing is controlled by the left analogue stick and spin controlled by the right ("Hooks" and "slices" for weekend hackers such as myself). This has been improved from last years iteration so that it is a completely streamlined system- from tee to green you can now use this system. One of the more significant additions is the Rivals mode in which you can take on the best of the best when they were the best. For example, Tiger Woods with his forged irons and titanium driver, or Jack Nicklaus and his wooden set of clubs. EA have also chosen to implement a putting grid which results in a feeling of synchronization with the green. It should feel like that it's just you, the green and the putter. While the game somewhat captures this feeling, it would be nice if there were divots or foliage that you had to negotiate. This once again 'leaves' the feeling that this game is more of an evolution rather than a revolution.

Throughout the Tiger Woods series of games, the game has tended to focus on getting trophies and rapid career progression rather than playing for the pure thrill of a satisfying round. For example, I've found myself playing a deliberately easy round just so I can accumulate a couple of eagles to win a special trophy golf ball and it's situations such as these that are designed to make the game much more appealing to the masses. This is in contrast to playing 18 holes for a genuine challenge. This is enhanced by the return of 'Tiger Proofing' which adjusts the course to the your playing ability. Maybe it's because I'm a golfer myself or just pedantic, but I enjoy getting caught up in situations where I've had a horror front nine and have to work hard to save par over the round. Most gamers won't share my feelings on this and hence, this game is suited to the majority of players and people who just want to pick up and play the game. I, as a dedicated golfer (note: not necessarily a GOOD golfer) was kept interested by the challenge of attaining sponsorships from the big name brands (Taylormade, Callaway, Nike and... Dunlop) and then comparing the distance of your brand new Taylormade R7 compared to the Callaway Big Bertha.

The graphics in the game are somewhat better than last years version and have benefited from the increased resolution of the textures from the Xbox 360 version. The characters, and more noticeably their faces look fantastic, and it's clear that EA has spent plenty of time working on the characters(and has added a few more PGA tour players, such as Chris DiMarco), but apart from that, there once again isn't any kind of revolutionary change... not even the addition of system link. The courses are similar (graphically) to the previous version of the game, however, now the grass blows in the wind which adds a degree of immersion to the game. However, sometimes the game suffers from framerate slowdown, especially whilst putting. This can get somewhat frustrating when trying to control your backswing for a crucial par/birdie/eagle putt. Once again, there isn't necessarily a huge overhaul of the game's engine, but there are subtle refinements which make the game feel polished and ultimately satisfying for real golfers and avid gamers alike.

Tiger Woods has always in my mind, been known for its lively commentary. With Dave Feherty (who's wit and class from his "Ask Feherty" column has transferred into the game) and Gary McCord providing non-stop one liners that rarely seem to repeat, the game has an air of 'Happy Gilmore' surrounding it, the kind of thing that can turn a dismal round into a funny, dismal round. There are also great ambient sound effects, waves crashing to the shore, birds chirping (though I'm sure that must have been on repeat, as I hit several shots into trees and the birds still managed to chirp). One gripe I did have though, was with the individual players. When creating your character with the Game Face (which has been greatly expanded for the 2006 edition) you can choose which octave your characters voice is in. What's the relevance of this you say? Well, when you think it's so funny to give your character a helium-pitch voice in the Game Face, when playing in the game your characters have un-skippable, repetitive comments "Get on the green, GET ON THE GREEN!" which can lead to constant groans from not only yourself, but anyone within hearing distance of the TV.

The single player is once again strong with the return of the PGA Tour season complete with licensed events and courses. There also the addition of the Rivals mode which lets you visit the era of the greats (Nicklaus for example) and take part in challenges with them is a fun and interesting addition to the game. Most of the aspects present from previous games have also made a return to this 2006 edition (Real-Time events, Tiger proofing) but there are also some additions, such as the Gamebreaker which rewards good shots and when built up, allows for one shot that is almost guaranteed to go into the hole (generally resulting in eagles).

Multiplayer is an aspect of the game where the franchise has always been strong and this years version doesn't differ. Grabbing some friends and playing can be extremely fun, as there are numerous traditional game modes to play (there are eight in total, such as skins and best ball) and a personal favourite of mine- battle golf, has returned. Xbox Live is a present within the game, and with the varied multiplayer options, this game is set to please.