I think NGG and FT are comparable games.
FT has the Monster Fish challenge and the very challenging Jackpot /Super Jackpot in multiball. And yes there are some other mini award modes that give some additional variety. Video mode is ok too.
NGG has you advancing golf holes, and has a cool hole in one shot, but it is really random to sink it. The mini award modes are ok, but don't feel as fun.
FT offers a more focused challenge which still draws me to play it in a way that was missing with NGG. NGG is more of a grind to play all the holes.
For me, FT is a more enjoyable quirky theme. The pop up gophers are cool at first, but the humor gets old in a way that doesn't happen on FT.
I still enjoy firing up FT as a break from the deeper rules games. The criss-crossing boat ramp shot is unique and therapeutic.