If you conducted a Family Feud-style survey asking which pro sports simulation video game series people would most want 2K to develop that they're not already making, the revival of NFL 2K would undoubtedly top the list. However, pro golf might not even rank as the second or third choice, with MLB and NHL being more likely candidates. Despite this, 2K is back with PGA Tour 2K25 for a third installment, and after spending a couple of hours with it, there's plenty to appreciate.
Developer HB Studios has been refining its golf game for years, starting with The Golf Club a decade ago before partnering with 2K and rebranding to PGA Tour 2K in 2020. The experience and maturity of the team are evident in 2K25, as it's hard to pinpoint any major flaws during my playtime. While it may not be the most visually stunning sports game, and it would be great to have more real-life courses (though 2K25 does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship), I did notice some choppy framerates on PC when surveying new holes. However, diving into this year's game was genuinely enjoyable.
The upgraded EvoSwing mechanic is a highlight. With various options available, I found the right stick method most comfortable when using a controller. You pull down to wind up and press forward to strike the ball and follow through. You can adjust the difficulty to make it more forgiving or challenging; at higher settings, a slight misdirection can result in a significant slice or hook. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the lower difficulty settings (Perfect Swing) are less punishing on missed inputs, allowing you to progress smoothly. You can also use LB to shape your shots, adding another layer of control. HB Studios claims the ball physics have been enhanced, and the ability to move laterally in the tee box to adjust your tee shot is a welcome feature. Starting as this year's cover athlete, Tiger Woods, certainly added to the fun.
MyCareer mode has also received an upgrade, integrating narrative elements seen in other sports games to good effect. I was offered a role in a movie alongside Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald, who appears in the game (though not as his iconic Happy Gilmore character due to licensing issues). My choice to play a hero or villain influenced which MyCareer stats were boosted. Gear earned through VC also impacts your stats, and your skills can be upgraded by playing and winning. The addition of Quests, which can be refreshed weekly, adds another engaging element, like achieving 10 consecutive birdies.
In MyPlayer mode, I didn't spend much time perfecting my avatar, but even a brief session with the player creator yielded satisfactory results. The inclusion of skill trees is a welcome addition. Unfortunately, I couldn't test the multiplayer options, which promise casual fun with ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies (similar to groups or clubs). I fondly remember chatting with friends while playing Links 2004 on the original Xbox, and PGA Tour 2K25 seems poised to replicate and enhance that experience. The game also offers asynchronous multiplayer options, perfect for those with friends in different time zones.
PGA Tour 2K25 is challenging to preview because it performs well across the board without any glaring issues. This makes it hard to get overly excited about, but it's a solid choice for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a stress-free gaming experience. You can try it out for yourself, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available now.
