I guess I will weigh in. The property consists of 2 distinct courses. Given the design preferences of the architects, it is not surprising that there are similarities. I would discount the notion that Bill Coore picked the property that would provide the most work; that doesn't sound anything like Bill Coore. Since I did not see the property before the shaping, I can't opine on how much was changed. However the Red (Coore) course is located amongst the more dramatic dunes. It is a bit more schizophrenic in that the front 9 starts out with 3 very difficult holes where lost balls are a real possibility. The rest of the 9 is quite short and while there is some real interest, it is relatively easy, particularly in the winds which we were told prevail. The back 9 is quite a bit longer. Greens are generally large with as many as 6 greens within greens. While they are quite interesting, the internal contours within the "subgreens" are not as severe as on the Blue (Doak) course and the alternate routes to holes which exist on the Blue course by reason of such contours are not as prevalent.
The Blue has an outstanding collection of par 3's. The fairways are somewhat more forgiving and as usual on Tom's courses, the game gets more interesting as one approaches the greens. The greens are large, but they did not seem as large as the Red. However many of the contours are more stiking but I felt that I had more options in getting the ball to the hole. Both courses are wonderful to play and while they have many similarities, the discerning eye can differentiate between them without too much trouble. Kept firm and fast, they are a lot of fun and different from any public access course I have experienced in Florida.
Success, who knows? I suspect a certain portion of the golfing public will view the center bunkers, wild greens, ground game emphasis as "goofy golf". But for the rest, it will be better than any public option in Florida. However, unless other activities grow up around it, this will not be a place to bring families. Thus the only question is whether there are enough buddy trips during the cold weather to make it pay? For me, it is the best late fall - early spring option for anyone from the midwest to the eastern seaboard. But the trip has to be almost entirely golf related. Ron Whitten expressed his doubts in this weeks's Golfworld.
Finally, I wouldn't be surprised if they slow the greens down after they achieve more play. Otherwise play may get real slow, not to mention the frustration level of some golfers.