The mode where bombs and panels appear on the course is also very fun. Everyone can get together and play it like a party game.
Takemoto explained, “We wanted to incorporate the feeling of playing an exciting board game with everyone, so we made use of panels. We aimed to capture the ‘fun’ of using cards obtained from the panels to strengthen one’s own character or impede other players. It felt like the perfect game to play during the long nights of fall. This seemed like the kind of game for which you would call your friends to come and play until the dead of night.”
Fukazawa added, “We had countless plans for this type of ‘gameplay,’ but the explosive traps, panels, golf club confiscation, and such were what remained. We watched many programs and videos about golf, including variety shows, and that’s where we got our inspiration.”
During the planning stages, there was even consideration of adding a romance system with the caddy. “Unfortunately, it did not happen because of time and budget constraints,” Fukazawa said with a laugh. “As you progressed through the game, your caddy would have confessed to you on the greens.”
In the end, the essence of the idea remained as “affection,” preserving the emotional connection without fully developing the romance mechanic.
https://nintendoeverything.com/everybodys-golf-hot-shots-almost-had-a-romance-system/