PGA Tour 2K25: Last Look Before Launch

If you took a Family Feud-style survey of which pro sports simulation video game series people would most want 2K to take a crack at that they're not already making, a resurrection of NFL 2K would easily be the number-one answer. However, pro golf might not even be the second or third choice (hello, MLB and NHL). Yet, 2K is returning for another swing with PGA Tour 2K25, and after playing for a couple of hours, there's much to appreciate.

Developer HB Studios has been perfecting its golf game for quite some time, starting with The Golf Club a decade ago before transitioning to PGA Tour 2K in 2020. The team's experience is evident in 2K25, as I found it hard to pinpoint any major flaws during my hands-on session. While it may not be the most visually stunning sports game, and it would be great to have more real-life courses (2K25 does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship), I did notice some choppy framerates on PC when surveying new holes. Despite these minor issues, 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 and follow through. You can adjust the difficulty to be forgiving or challenging; higher settings demand precision, where a slight miscalculation can result in a slice or hook. For a more relaxed experience, the lower difficulty settings (Perfect Swing) are less punishing on missed inputs, allowing you to progress smoothly. Additionally, you can shape your shots by tapping LB, giving you more control over the ball's trajectory. HB Studios claims to have improved the ball physics, and the ability to adjust your position laterally in the tee box to navigate obstacles like trees adds a strategic element. Starting my session as Tiger Woods, this year's cover athlete, certainly helped, given his prowess in the sport.

MyCareer mode has also seen enhancements, incorporating narrative elements similar to those found in other sports games. I was offered a role in a movie with Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald, who appears in the game but not as his iconic Happy Gilmore character due to licensing issues. My choices in the movie scenario affected 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 or at any time, adds another layer of engagement, such as achieving 10 consecutive birdies.

In MyPlayer mode, while I didn't spend much time perfecting my avatar, even a brief session with the player creator allowed me to get reasonably close to my likeness. The introduction of skill trees is a welcome addition. Unfortunately, I couldn't try 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 recreate and enhance that experience. The game also offers asynchronous multiplayer options, perfect for friends in different time zones.

PGA Tour 2K25 is somewhat challenging to preview because it performs well across the board without any glaring weaknesses. This makes it hard to get overly excited, but it's a solid choice for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a low-stress gaming experience. You can try it for yourself at no cost, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available starting today.