If you conducted a Family Feud-style survey asking which pro sports simulation video game series fans would most want 2K to tackle that they're not currently producing, the top answer would undoubtedly be a revival of NFL 2K. Even pro golf might not rank as the second or third choice, with MLB and NHL likely vying for those spots. Yet, 2K is set to release PGA Tour 2K25, marking their third entry into the golfing world, and after a couple of hours of gameplay, there's much to appreciate.
Developer HB Studios has been refining their golf game for over a decade, starting with The Golf Club before transitioning to the PGA Tour 2K series in 2020. Their experience and maturity are evident in PGA Tour 2K25, where I found few, if any, glaring issues during my hands-on time. While it may not be the most visually stunning sports game, and while more real-life courses would be welcome (2K25 does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship), and though I experienced some choppy framerate on PC when surveying new holes, diving into this year's game was genuinely enjoyable.
The revamped EvoSwing mechanic stands out. You have several control options, and using a controller, I found the right stick method most appealing. You pull down to wind up and push forward to hit and follow through. This can be set to be forgiving or more challenging, depending on your difficulty setting. A slight miscalculation can result in a slice or hook, adding a realistic challenge. For a more relaxed experience, the "Perfect Swing" setting allows for less punitive gameplay. Additionally, you can use LB to shape your shots, enhancing control over the ball's trajectory. HB Studios claims improved ball physics, and the ability to adjust your position laterally in the tee box adds a strategic element, especially when obstacles like trees come into play. Starting my session as Tiger Woods, this year's cover athlete, was a fitting choice given his prowess in the sport.
MyCareer mode has been enhanced with narrative elements seen in other sports games, which adds an entertaining layer. I was offered a role in a movie alongside Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald, though not as his iconic Happy Gilmore character due to licensing. My choices in this narrative scenario affected which MyCareer stats were boosted. Gear, earned through VC, impacts your performance, and skills can be upgraded through playing and winning. The addition of Quests, which can be refreshed weekly, provides ongoing challenges like achieving ten consecutive birdies.
In MyPlayer, I didn't spend much time creating a detailed avatar, but even a brief session with the player creator allowed for a decent approximation. The introduction of skill trees adds depth to character development. Unfortunately, I couldn't test the multiplayer features, which promise casual fun through ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies, reminiscent of the enjoyable online interactions I had with Links 2004 on the original Xbox. The game also offers asynchronous multiplayer options, perfect for friends in different time zones.
PGA Tour 2K25 is challenging to preview because it performs well across the board without any major flaws. While this might make it less exciting to some, it's a solid choice for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing gaming experience. You can try it for yourself at no cost, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available starting today.
