PGA Tour 2K25: The Final Preview

PGA Tour 2K25: A Solid Swing, But No Home Run

A hypothetical Family Feud survey asking which pro sports game series 2K should tackle next would likely crown an NFL 2K revival as the clear winner. However, 2K is instead teeing off with PGA Tour 2K25, and after a few hours of play, it's a promising offering.

Developer HB Studios, with a decade of golf game experience (including The Golf Club series), demonstrates its expertise. While not the most visually stunning sports game, and lacking an extensive real-world course roster (though it includes the PGA Championship, US Open, and The Open Championship), 2K25 delivers enjoyable gameplay. Minor issues like occasional framerate hiccups on PC were easily overshadowed by the overall fun factor.

The upgraded EvoSwing mechanic is a highlight. Controller users will appreciate the right stick control, allowing for precise shot shaping. Difficulty levels cater to both casual and hardcore players, offering options from forgiving "Perfect Swing" to challenging settings that punish inaccurate inputs. Lateral movement in the tee box adds strategic depth. Playing as cover athlete Tiger Woods further enhanced the experience.

MyCareer mode receives a welcome boost with narrative elements, offering choices that impact stats and gameplay. The inclusion of Christopher McDonald (though not as Shooter McGavin due to licensing) adds a touch of humor. Earned VC unlocks gear that affects stats, alongside skill trees for player progression and weekly quests.

While the multiplayer aspects (ranked matchmaking, cross-platform Societies, and asynchronous options) couldn't be fully explored, the potential for engaging social gameplay is evident. The asynchronous mode is a particularly nice touch for players with disparate schedules.

PGA Tour 2K25 excels in its consistent competence without any major flaws. This might make it less immediately exciting, but it points to a solid, enjoyable golf game for enthusiasts and casual players alike. A playable demo is currently available, allowing players to experience the game firsthand.