Groove Media has announced the beta release for its multiplayer online UTour Golf game, which will allow players to compete for real cash prizes in a "pro golf simulation". It's free to play, and users who join the beta will get a chance to brush up ahead of upcoming tournaments. The game is part of Groove's SkillGround technology platform, which assigns all players a skill ranking in its various titles to keep competition on even footing and to secure transactions.

In UTour Golf, players can select from a variety of golf courses and game rule sets, enter tournaments or compete head-to-head. It's also got tiered tournaments from Rookie to Legend, and UTour Golf promises automatic skill matching and accessibility for players inexperienced at video games. It also emphasizes its community features; players can chat in-game, track and compare stats, invite friends to participate and practice, and view the prizes available.

"The proven technology of our SkillGround platform ensures a fair environment for cash competitions," said Jon Walsh, CEO of Groove Media. "The transparent ranking system along with an accurate skill matching system makes UTour Golf fun for rookie and veteran players alike."