If you polled golf game enthusiasts about which pro sports series they'd most like to see 2K tackle next, a NFL 2K revival would undoubtedly top the list. Even pro golf might not be a close second or third (hello, MLB and NHL!). Yet, 2K is returning 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 a decade, starting with The Golf Club before partnering with 2K and rebranding to PGA Tour 2K in 2020. That experience shows in 2K25. While not the most visually stunning sports game, and while more real-life courses would be welcome (it does include the PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open Championship), and despite some surprisingly choppy framerates on PC at times, the core gameplay is undeniably fun.
The upgraded EvoSwing mechanic is a standout. Using a controller, the right stick option—pull down to wind up, push forward to strike—felt intuitive. Difficulty settings adjust the forgiveness, allowing for challenging, realistic shots or more relaxed gameplay with the Perfect Swing option. LB allows for shot shaping, providing extra control. Improved ball physics and the ability to adjust your tee shot position based on course obstacles further enhance the experience. Starting as Tiger Woods, the cover athlete, certainly helped!I was even offered a movie role with Christopher “Shooter McGavin” McDonald (present in the game, though not as his Happy Gilmore character). My choices in the MyCareer mode—playing hero or villain—influenced stat boosts. Earned VC unlocks gear impacting stats, and skills are upgradeable through gameplay. Added Quests, refreshed weekly, provide ongoing goals (like achieving 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), promise fun casual play, echoing the enjoyable social aspects of games like *Links 2004*. Asynchronous multiplayer caters to players in different time zones.PGA Tour 2K25 excels without being revolutionary. This makes it less flashy, but also suggests a solid, enjoyable experience for golf fans and those seeking a relaxing game. A playable demo is available now.