If you were to conduct a Family Feud-style survey asking which professional sports simulation video game series fans would most want 2K to tackle that they're not already making, a revival of NFL 2K would likely top the list. Yet, even though pro golf might not be the second or third most requested (MLB and NHL are strong contenders), 2K is back for another swing with PGA Tour 2K25. After spending a couple of hours with the game, there's a lot 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. Their experience and maturity are evident in PGA Tour 2K25. While it might not be the most visually stunning sports game, and more real-life courses would be welcome (though 2K25 does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and the Open Championship), I found the gameplay engaging. The only hiccup was a surprisingly choppy framerate on PC when surveying each new hole by pressing Y.
A standout feature is the upgraded EvoSwing mechanic. With a controller, I favored the right stick option, pulling down to wind up and pressing forward to strike the ball and follow through. You can adjust the difficulty to be forgiving or challenging; a slight thumb movement at higher settings can result in a slice or hook. For a more relaxed experience, the lower difficulty settings (Perfect Swing) are less punitive on missed inputs, keeping the game flowing smoothly. Additionally, you can use LB to shape your shots for better control. HB Studios claims to have enhanced the ball physics, and the ability to adjust your position laterally in the tee box to navigate obstacles like trees adds a strategic layer. Starting my game as Tiger Woods, this year's cover athlete and golf legend, certainly helped.
MyCareer mode has seen significant improvements, incorporating narrative elements seen in other sports games. I was offered a role in a movie alongside Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald, who's in the game but not as his iconic Happy Gilmore character due to licensing issues. My choice to play as a hero or villain influenced which MyCareer stats were boosted. Gear purchased with earned VC also impacts your stats, while skills are upgraded through playing and winning. The addition of Quests, which can be refreshed weekly or as needed, adds to the engagement, challenging players to achieve goals like getting 10 consecutive birdies.
In MyPlayer, even a brief session with the player creator allowed me to come close to recreating myself, and the new skill trees are a welcome addition. I didn't get to try the multiplayer options, but they sound promising with casual fun through ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies (similar to groups or clubs). These features evoke fond memories of playing Links 2004 on the original Xbox with friends, and PGA Tour 2K25 seems poised to deliver an even better experience. The game also offers asynchronous multiplayer for those with friends in different time zones.
Previewing PGA Tour 2K25 is challenging because it performs well across the board without any major flaws, which makes it hard to get overly excited but still positions it as a solid choice for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a low-stress game. Fortunately, you can try it out for free, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available starting today.
