Links 2003 Amsterdam International GC

Amsterdam International GC
Golfgraffix
COURSE NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTES:
The zip file you download will extract to an installer file (AIGC.exe)
This needs to be saved on your computer and then run.
When run the installer will put the course file in the default location (the COURSES folder that Links 2003 created when the game was first installed).
After the course has been installed you will be offered the chance to install the Version 1.07 upgrade to Links 2003 which is required in order to play on a course with high resolution textures.
If you already have version 1.07 then you can just cancel the install.
CLIPNOTES
Description
Real, marshland course
Location
Netherlands
Conditions
M*/M* seems to be the limit for some of these greens.
Concept 9/10
Deep in the water-logged Polderland, there appears to be a really impressive creation being put together here. With water understandably playing a large part, the course also has a surprising reliance on subtle undulations and gradients, with quite a few plateau greens. Some holes, including the 11th and 16th , are absolutely stand-out, and it looks like a potential Ryder Cup course is being created. The Links work, done under the guise of GolfGraffix by the talented Pete Beckwith, is of a very high standard.
Appearance 8/10
A delightful touch with the planting comes as no surprise, and the clumps of trees are naturally similar without ever being obviously identical. The deft touch extends down to the grasses and the subtly-detailed textures underneath - although some deeper blends wouldn't go amiss. There's a good panorama and detailed bunker work to back it all up. What I did find somewhat jarring, though, was the bumpy elevations in parts. There's no doubt at all that the landscaping needs careful attention to detail here, and that's made for a somewhat uneven reproduction in links.
Playability 8/10
There's an interesting mystique around these as-yet unfinished courses, and you feel privileged to have a sneak glimpse at hole that haven't yet been fully realised. Having said that, there's a feeling that perhaps someone was trying a little bit too hard in putting Amsterdam International together: there are a lot of forced carries and a lack of any 'breather' holes around. It's a full-on and breathless round.
Challenge 5/10
I'm sure in real life, then this would be a real toughie, but this is another of the legion of examples that just lose a bit of bite on Links. Being able to negotiate safe approaches from the rough, 190-odd yards out, are that little bit easier with your computer Ani, and some of the carefully-moulded almost links-like bunkers are much easier for the amateurs than was the original intention. It's certainly not too easy, but there's plenty of birdie-space here.
Technical 9/10
Commercial course rendering has come an awful long way over the years, and other than a few hard lines here and there, there's no reason not to be impressed.
Overall
An impressive new venue with plenty of ambition to be among world-class courses.
CLIPNOTES by Ben Bateson