renniw52: In the world today, we need understanding, compassion, and beyond all, honesty.
No-one could argue with that so no truer words typed and from what I know of you, you practice what you preach.
Yes there are cheaters/multis etc., but as in real life, I will always disassociate them from any and every part of my life.
Is this game realistic, yes and no. Whilst we are not pro golfers in real life, this game does give you the opportunity to score as well, if not better. yes this does require investment, both financially and with your time to do so. Some players do score very unrealistic scores (even I shot a 54 a week or so ago) but this is because they have learnt to play this game exceptionally well, not due to cheating. I am an honest player and also play purely for fun, not credits and I would be envious hitting 95% dings in a game - and I do try to hit the ding most of the time.
If you really want your scoring realistic, use the starters set from he tips.
Yes VEM does exist just as the elements playing in real life affect shots - yes the WTF shots happen there too. But I find MOST of my poor shots occur because of my shortcomings or miscalculations. Yes sometimes I simply scratch my head and swear at the monitor. But does this diminish my enjoyment - hell no. It is just a game that I STILL enjoy playing - perhaps that just the attitude I have. If such bizarre things happen when you play, why does it only affect the average players and not the players shooting such low scores? Maybe it does but they have just learnt how to recover so much better.
I suppose Renn, my point is this is a great game, was and still is IMO but it does come down to your attitude. Play to enjoy the game and you will - regardless of the score. Set yourself personal challenges each game. I did this when I started playing (mostly practice rounds with starters for nearly a year) and my personal highlight was and still is the first 18 hole round that as under par (-2 St A albeit Yellow tees)) and no bogeys. For me that still beats any other score I have had since. The game is not necessarily about your score - that's just superfluous to the enjoyment.
Alan