PGA Tour 2K25: Ultimate Preview Revealed

If you conducted a Family Feud-style survey asking which pro sports simulation video game series fans would most want 2K to develop that they aren't already making, a revival of NFL 2K would undoubtedly top the list. Even pro golf might not rank second or third (consider MLB and NHL). However, 2K is set to release PGA Tour 2K25, marking their third venture into the golfing world, and after spending a couple of hours with it, there's plenty to appreciate.

Developer HB Studios has been refining their golf game for years, starting with The Golf Club a decade ago before partnering with 2K and rebranding to PGA Tour 2K in 2020. Their expertise and refinement are evident in PGA Tour 2K25, where I found it challenging to pinpoint any major flaws during my hands-on time. While it may not be the most visually stunning sports game, and having more real-life courses would be welcome (though 2K25 does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship), the gameplay itself was enjoyable. However, I did notice the framerate was unexpectedly choppy on PC when surveying each new hole by pressing Y.

One of the standout features is the upgraded EvoSwing mechanic, which offers various control options. Using a controller, I favored the right stick method, where you pull down to wind up and push forward to strike and follow through. You can adjust the difficulty to be more forgiving or challenging; on higher settings, a slight misdirection can result in a slice or hook, while the lower difficulty 'Perfect Swing' mode allows for a more relaxed experience, minimizing penalties for missed inputs. Additionally, you can use LB to shape your shots, enhancing control over the ball's trajectory. HB Studios has also improved the ball physics, and the ability to adjust your position laterally in the tee box to navigate obstacles like trees adds strategic depth. Playing as this year's cover athlete, Tiger Woods, certainly helped, given his renowned skill in golf.

The MyCareer mode has been enhanced with narrative elements, similar to those found in other sports games, adding an entertaining layer to the gameplay. I was offered a role in a movie with Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald, who appears in the game (though not as his iconic Happy Gilmore character due to licensing). This narrative choice between playing a hero or villain affects which MyCareer stats are boosted. Gear acquired through earned VC impacts your stats, and skills can be upgraded by playing and winning. The introduction of Quests, which can be refreshed weekly or at any time, offers objectives like achieving 10 consecutive birdies, adding variety to the gameplay.

In the MyPlayer mode, while I didn't spend much time creating a perfect avatar, a brief session with the player creator allowed me to come close to my desired look. The addition of skill trees is a welcome feature. Unfortunately, I couldn't explore the multiplayer options, which include ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies (akin to groups or clubs). These features promise a casual, enjoyable experience reminiscent of my fond memories of playing Links 2004 on the original Xbox. The game also offers asynchronous multiplayer options, ideal for friends in different time zones.

PGA Tour 2K25 might be challenging to preview because it performs well across the board without any significant shortcomings. This can make it hard to get overly excited, but it's a solid choice for golf enthusiasts or those seeking a low-stress gaming experience. You can try it out for yourself, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available starting today.