If you polled golf game fans about which pro sports franchise they'd most like to see 2K tackle next, a NFL 2K revival would likely top the list. Even pro golf might not come in second or third (looking at you, MLB and NHL). Yet, 2K is back for a third swing with PGA Tour 2K25, and after a few hours, there's much 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. That experience shines through in 2K25. While not the best-looking sports game, and more real-life courses would be welcome (it does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open Championship), my hands-on time revealed few significant flaws. (Though, I did experience surprisingly choppy framerates on PC when surveying holes.) The core gameplay was simply fun.
The upgraded EvoSwing mechanic is a highlight. Using a controller, I preferred the right stick option: pull down to wind up, press forward to strike. Difficulty settings adjust the sensitivity, allowing for forgiving casual play or punishing precision. A lower difficulty setting (Perfect Swing) prioritizes consistent progress. LB lets you shape shots, adding control. Improved ball physics and lateral movement in the tee box further enhance gameplay. Playing as Tiger Woods, this year's cover athlete, certainly helped.MyCareer mode gets a boost with narrative mechanics, similar to other sports titles. I even got a movie role offer from Christopher "Shooter McGavin" McDonald (in the game, but not as his Happy Gilmore character). Choosing a heroic or villainous path impacts stat boosts. Gear purchased with VC also affects stats, alongside skill upgrades through gameplay and victories. Added Quests provide ongoing goals, like hitting 10 birdies in a row.
The MyPlayer creator, while not extensively tested, allowed for reasonable character customization. Skill trees add depth. Multiplayer options, including ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies (clubs/groups), promise casual fun. Asynchronous multiplayer caters to players in different time zones.PGA Tour 2K25 is hard to definitively preview; it does many things well without excelling in any one area. This might dampen initial excitement, but it seems like a solid pick for golf fans and those seeking a relaxing game. A playable demo is available now, allowing you to judge for yourself.
