Competition will be a big part of Mario Golf: World Tour when the game hits the 3DS in May 2, so it should come as no surprise that Nintendo is kicking things off for the game in a big way. My golf experience is limited to knocking balls through windmills (or at least trying to), but if you're par for birdies and screaming "fore," you might've heard of Callaway Golf. The company is collaborating with Nintendo and hosting its own series of tournaments, beginning May 22.
All players who participate get in-game digital Callaway Golf items like golf clubs and balls, which have the nice effect of enhancing player stats when used by Mii characters. So just for participating you get some nice stuff, but to the victors go the true spoils. Winners of the Callaway tournaments receive in-game coins that can be used to purchase more gear at Toad's Shop in Castle Club.
Granted, not the most luxurious prize, but it's something. Starting at launch, a schedule for select tournaments will be available at Nintendo's Mario Golf web site here.
If those tourneys aren't up your alley, make your own. Mario Golf: World Tour has a bevy on online multiplayer features that let you screw around with damn near anything: change the wind levels, make only one character selectable, limit item shots, etc. A demo for the game hits the eShop later this month, April 24, so give it a try.