Links LS: 1998 Edition vs Links 2001
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Links LS: 1998 Edition brings the beloved Links series to PC with meticulously recreated real‑world courses and a robust physics engine. Players can enjoy both solo play and a variety of multiplayer modes, from head‑to‑head matches to cooperative tournaments. The game features a powerful course editor, detailed swing mechanics, and dynamic weather that affect ball flight, delivering an authentic golfing experience for both casual fans and hardcore simulators.
Links 2001 delivers a faithful recreation of world‑class golf courses, bringing the sport to PC with detailed graphics and authentic physics. Players can enjoy both solo rounds and competitive multiplayer, mastering each hole with precision controls and realistic ball dynamics. Developed by Access Software and published by Microsoft, the game offers a range of tournament and practice options, making it a timeless choice for golf enthusiasts seeking a deep, immersive experience on Windows PCs.
- Highly realistic golf physics
- Robust multiplayer options
- Extensive course editor
- Detailed graphics and weather system
- Highly realistic golf physics
- Wide selection of authentic courses
- Robust multiplayer options
- Extensive customization and course editor
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Limited AI opponent variety
- Older UI may feel dated
- Graphics dated by modern standards
- Limited AI opponent variety
- Requires Windows compatibility patches for newer OS
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Alternatives to Links LS: 1998 Edition
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Realistic golf simulation for PC with authentic courses and multiplayer play
Alternatives to Links 2001
View all →
Realistic golf simulation for PC with authentic courses and multiplayer play
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth titles deliver realistic golf physics and strong multiplayer, but Links LS: 1998 Edition offers richer graphics and a higher price, while Links 2001 is cheaper with a newer release date and similar core features.
Key differences
- •Price: Links 2001 costs $29.99 vs. $49.99 for Links LS: 1998 Edition.
- •Graphics: LS: 1998 Edition lists high‑resolution textures and vivid lighting; Links 2001 notes dated graphics.
- •Release timing: Links 2001 launched in 2000, three years later than the 1997 LS edition.
- •Multiplayer modes: LS: 1998 includes cooperative play; Links 2001 only mentions LAN/online matchmaking.
- •Publisher: Links 2001 is published by Microsoft, LS: 1998 by Access Software.
Gameplay & fun factor
Both provide highly realistic ball physics, dynamic weather, and career modes; no clear advantage in core gameplay.
Platform availability
Both are PC titles; Links 2001 requires Windows patches for newer OS, but no other platform differences noted.
Price & value
Links 2001 is $29.99 versus $49.99 for LS: 1998, offering the same core features at a lower cost.
Multiplayer / co‑op
LS: 1998 explicitly supports cooperative play; Links 2001 only lists LAN/online matchmaking without coop.
Content & replayability
Both include over 20 courses, a course editor, and career tracking; content volume is comparable.
Difficulty & accessibility
Links 2001 has no noted steep learning curve, whereas LS: 1998 mentions a steep curve for beginners.
Graphics & performance
LS: 1998 lists high‑resolution textures, vivid detail, and realistic shadows; Links 2001 notes dated graphics.
Choose Links LS: 1998 Edition if…
Buyers who prioritize better graphics, cooperative play, and don’t mind a higher price.
Choose Links 2001 if…
Buyers seeking the cheapest realistic golf sim with solid multiplayer and no coop need.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Links 2001 costs $29.99; Links LS: 1998 Edition costs $49.99.
Do both support online multiplayer?
Yes, both support online multiplayer for up to 4 players; LS: 1998 also adds cooperative mode.
Is there a significant graphics difference?
Links LS: 1998 Edition advertises high‑resolution textures and vivid lighting, while Links 2001 is described as having dated graphics.



