Home /
TurboGrafx-16

Naxat Open

TurboGrafx-16

TurboGrafx-16

Naxat Open is a golf simulator from Naxat Soft. Naxat Soft hired contract developers TOSE to develop the game. Released the same week as Power Golf, Naxat Open aimed for the more serious simulation crowd whereas Power Golf appealed more to those looking for a more casual golfing video game experi...

Download

0/5 Votes: 0

Report

Developer
NAXAT Soft

Released on
1989

Size
1–4 Players

Version
TurboGrafx-16

Requirements
NEC TurboGrafx-16

Downloads
Sports

Publisher
Naxat Soft

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

Report this app

Images

Description

Naxat Open is a golf simulator from Naxat Soft. Naxat Soft hired contract developers TOSE to develop the game. Released the same week as Power Golf, Naxat Open aimed for the more serious simulation crowd whereas Power Golf appealed more to those looking for a more casual golfing video game experience.

Besides a harsher level of challenge – the acceptable window of error is greatly diminished – Naxat Open plays much like other golf sims for console games: the gameplay chiefly focuses on hitting a power gauge just right to maximize the effect of each swing.

Naxat Open

Overview & History

Released by Naxat Soft in 1989 exclusively for the PC Engine (TurboGrafx-16) in Japan, Naxat Open is a niche yet remarkably ambitious golf simulation that arrived during the 16-bit era's infancy. While Hudson Soft’s rival Power Golf often steals the spotlight, Naxat’s entry carved out a dedicated following by leaning heavily into strategic course management and realistic physics rather than pure arcade accessibility. The game features no sprawling fantasy narrative; instead, the "storyline" is the solitary pursuit of professional golfing greatness across diverse, beautifully rendered 18-hole championship courses. Utilizing the PC Engine's HuCard format, the developers pushed the hardware to display vibrant, colorful greens and detailed isometric perspectives, making it a standout technical showcase for sports titles on the system.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Mechanically, Naxat Open introduces a refined three-click swing meter that dictates power and hook/slice accuracy, requiring precise timing based on varying wind speeds, lie conditions, and elevation changes. Players can select from a comprehensive bag of clubs, each featuring distinct loft and distance profiles, and adjust their stance to intentionally shape shots around tree lines or water hazards. The putting green utilizes a detailed grid overlay, forcing players to read slope contours meticulously. Visually, the game offers both an overhead map view for strategic planning and a zoomed-in third-person swing camera that shifts dynamically upon impact. Sound design is minimalist, relying on digitized ball-striking thuds, chirping birds, and gentle ambient chimes that enhance the tranquil, contemplative pacing of a professional tournament.

Keyboard Controls

Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Navigate menus, adjust club selection, aim shots, and read putting greens
Action Keys: Initiate swing meter, stop power gauge, and confirm menu selections
Enter: Start game / Pause and access tactical map or options menu