Happy Gilmore: Golf Mayhem '98 Demo Drops on Netflix Alongside Movie Sequel

Happy Gilmore: Golf Mayhem '98 Demo game and Netflix Movie Sequel (Image Credit: Netflix)

Netflix has quietly released a new tie-in game titled Happy Gilmore: Golf Mayhem '98 Demo, launching it the same day as Happy Gilmore 2, the long-awaited sequel to the original 1996 comedy film. While short and chaotic by design, the game acts as a quirky extension of the film’s universe, offering a brief but nostalgic gameplay experience for fans.

Available exclusively to Netflix subscribers, the game departs from the platform’s usual mobile-first approach. Instead, it can only be played on smart TVs, supported streaming devices, or web browsers like Chrome. Players will also need the Netflix Game Controller app on their phone or use keyboard controls if playing on a desktop.

Golf Mayhem '98 Demo serves as the fictional game Happy becomes a star in, as shown during the intro montage of Happy Gilmore 2. It lets players step into Happy’s cleats for one wild hole of golf, featuring familiar faces and inside jokes from the original movie — including a playable scene with Bob Barker and collectible nods like Chubbs' prosthetic hand.

Gameplay is deliberately simple. You tee off, then trek down the fairway, encountering interactive scenes and minigames like a golf cart demolition derby. These side activities grant bonus cash, adding to your score. However, it’s not meant to be a deep or expansive title — most playthroughs last around 15 minutes. Replayability comes from uncovering hidden minigames and collectibles.

Visually and mechanically, the game leans heavily into its '90s throwback vibe. Blocky graphics, clunky movement, and a retro interface are part of its charm, intentionally evoking the feeling of an unfinished arcade game from that era. It’s chaotic, a bit messy, but undeniably on-brand for something tied to Happy Gilmore.

That said, the game is very much aimed at fans of the original film. Without prior context, many of its jokes and scenes might feel random or disconnected.

This release is also part of Netflix’s ongoing strategy to integrate more game experiences into its entertainment ecosystem. According to remarks by co-CEO Greg Peters during the company's Q4 2024 earnings call, Netflix plans to focus more on interactive titles tied to its franchises. Similar to Thronglets, the mini-game based on Black Mirror, or Blood Line: A Rebel Moon Game, this Happy Gilmore title blends fictional in-universe gaming with real-world accessibility.

While Golf Mayhem '98 Demo may not be a full-fledged game, it offers a quick, entertaining nostalgia trip for longtime fans. And in the broader context, it signals Netflix’s interest in experimenting with short-form interactive content as a complement to its streaming slate — not every game needs to be epic, after all.