Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Outlaw Golf: 9 More Holes of X-Mas picks up right where Outlaw Golf: Holiday Golf left off, offering nine fresh 18-par courses wrapped in yuletide cheer. Despite the “short version” label, each hole offers enough tricks and traps to keep even veteran golfers on their toes. From candy-cane bunkers to ice-slick fairways, the environmental hazards will force you to rethink every swing.

One of the biggest draws here is that all clubs are unlocked from the start—so if you fancy a massive driver for that extra distance, go right ahead. The game practically dares you to experiment, rewarding outlandish shot choices with entertaining camera angles and slow-motion replays. Timing still matters—a mistimed slice can send your ball straight into a snowman’s nose.

The control scheme remains intuitive, relying on that familiar three-click swing meter. However, the addition of special “X-Mas boosters” injects new life into proceedings. Use gingerbread-flavored power-ups to boost your ball’s curve or the mistletoe magnet to reel in missed putts. It’s a welcome twist that keeps the nine holes feeling fresh despite the brevity of the package.

Graphics

Visually, 9 More Holes of X-Mas embraces a cartoonish aesthetic that’s both festive and crisp. The characters, particularly Summer and Trey in full holiday regalia, pop against a backdrop of ever-changing seasonal motifs. Snow-topped pine trees, glittering lights, and ornament-stocked bunkers all combine to create a winter wonderland on the fairway.

The courses themselves are surprisingly varied, ranging from a glassy ice lake peppered with floating wreaths to a gingerbread‐themed putting green complete with candy cane flagsticks. Each hole features enough moving elements—like rotating holiday presents or sliding toy trains—to make every round a little unpredictable. Frame rate dips are rare, even when multiple particle effects light up the screen.

Character animations deserve a special shout-out. Watch Trey’s exaggerated victory dance or Summer’s playful shiver when she lines up a particularly chilly putt. Camera transitions—from overhead course flybys to close-ups of your clubface—feel polished, ensuring that each memorable moment gets the spotlight it deserves.

Story

As with most Outlaw Golf titles, there’s no deep narrative arc here—nor should you expect one. The premise is simple: embrace the holiday spirit and sink some birdies with a cast of eccentric golfers. That said, the lighthearted banter between Summer and Trey adds just enough personality to keep you smiling round after round.

Dialogue snippets pop up between holes, often poking fun at your swing choices or celebrating outrageous trick shots. While the quips can be recycled after multiple playthroughs, they still offer a break from the green and reinforce the game’s mischievous charm.

In essence, the story functions as an appetizer rather than a main course. It’s more about setting a jovial mood than driving any emotional payoff. If you’re looking for a narrative-driven sports title, you won’t find it here—but fans of irreverent humor and festive flair will feel right at home.

Overall Experience

Outlaw Golf: 9 More Holes of X-Mas may be a compact release, but it delivers a solid dose of holiday fun in just the right portion size. The nine new courses are inventive, the mechanics are tight, and the full club roster encourages unorthodox strategies. For a Blockbuster Video Exclusive, it punches well above its weight.

With all clubs unlocked from the outset, the emphasis shifts from grinding to pure enjoyment. You’ll find yourself replaying favorite holes just to beat wild score challenges or to land that perfect “snowman handshake” trick shot. The game clocks in at a shorter playtime than a full retail release—but for its price and novelty, it makes a convincing case as a seasonal mini-escape.

Whether you’re a die-hard Outlaw Golf fan or a casual player hunting for festive flair, 9 More Holes of X-Mas is worth a swing. Just don your ugliest holiday sweater, grab your controller, and get ready to carve up the green with enough holiday hijinks to keep you coming back until New Year’s.

Retro Replay Score

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