PGA Tour 2K25: The Final Preview

If you conducted a Family Feud-style survey asking which pro sports simulation video game series fans would most want 2K to tackle that they're not already making, reviving NFL 2K would likely top the list. Yet, pro golf might not even rank as the second or third choice (consider MLB and NHL). Nonetheless, 2K is back for another swing with PGA Tour 2K25, and after spending a couple of hours with it, 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. The experience and polish of the team are evident in PGA Tour 2K25, as I found few significant issues during my playtime. 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 PC version did experience some unexpected framerate drops when surveying new holes. However, diving into this year's game was genuinely enjoyable.

The upgraded EvoSwing mechanic offers multiple control options, and using a controller, I favored the right stick method, pulling down to wind up and pressing forward to hit and follow through. You can adjust the difficulty to be more forgiving or challenging, affecting how sensitive the game is to your inputs. At higher difficulties, a slight thumb movement can result in a slice or hook, while the lower settings (Perfect Swing) are designed for a more relaxed experience, less punishing on missed inputs to keep the game flowing. Additionally, tapping LB allows you to shape your shots, enhancing your 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 was a useful feature. Starting as Tiger Woods, this year's cover athlete, added to the fun, given his renowned prowess in the sport.

MyCareer mode has seen enhancements, incorporating narrative elements seen in other sports games to good effect. 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 issues. My choices in the movie scenario influenced which MyCareer stats were boosted. Gear acquired through VC earnings impacts your stats, while skills can be upgraded through gameplay and victories. The addition of Quests, which can be refreshed weekly or as needed, such as achieving 10 consecutive birdies, adds another layer of engagement.

Regarding MyPlayer, while I didn't spend the entire demo meticulously crafting my avatar, even a brief session with the character creator allowed for a satisfactory representation. The inclusion of skill trees is a welcome enhancement. Unfortunately, I couldn't explore the multiplayer features, which promise casual enjoyment with ranked matchmaking and cross-platform Societies (similar to groups or clubs). These features evoke memories of leisurely times with friends in Links 2004 on the original Xbox, and PGA Tour 2K25 seems poised to recapture and expand on that experience. The asynchronous multiplayer options are a thoughtful touch for those with friends in different time zones.

Previewing PGA Tour 2K25 is challenging because it competently handles all aspects without any glaring flaws, which can make it hard to get overly excited. However, it appears to be a reliable choice for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a low-stress gaming experience. You can try it out for yourself at no cost, as a playable demo of PGA Tour 2K25 is available starting today.