As a long-time fan of the 2K golfing series, I was eager to tee off with PGA Tour 2K25. The 2023 installment was enjoyable but left plenty of room for improvement. Developer HB Studios took the time to listen to player feedback and improve the overall package. After a two-year wait, 2K25 has arrived, boasting brand-new gameplay mechanics, new playable pro golfers and improved graphics. The question is: does PGA Tour 2K25 sink the putt or veer off into the rough? Let’s hit the links, and I’ll share my thoughts in this full review.
PGA Tour 2K25 details
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
Developer(s): HB Studios
Publisher(s): 2K
Genre: Sports Simulation
Modes: Single-player, Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: Everyone
PGA Tour 2K25’s improved gameplay
PGA Tour 2K25 builds upon the foundation of its predecessors, introducing new features and game modes designed to cater to newcomers and seasoned players. The headline addition is the “EvoSwing mechanic,” a system that deconstructs your swing into four components: contact, rhythm, transition, and swing path. This approach allows for a more personalized and precise gameplay experience, rewarding you for mastering your swing.
Precision over timing
In 2K25, precision inputs are now favoured over the previous swing timing system. Offering a more rewarding experience if you are willing to hone your skills. The new shot types, ball flights, and roll physics contribute to a more authentic golf experience. I found myself spending hours in practice mode, working on my swing to achieve that elusive perfect shot.
Striking the right balance
It’s tough to strike the right balance in a golf game; making it too unforgiving might deter casual players. However, 2K25 addresses this by adding the Perfect Swing difficulty setting, which reduces the impact of external factors on your swing, making the game more accessible to rookies while still offering depth for veterans. This setting is ideal for newcomers or those looking to enjoy a more relaxed round of golf without the full EvoSwing system. It’s a thoughtful addition that opens up the game’s appeal, letting everyone find their groove on the course.
Golf your way
A standout feature for PGA Tour 2K25 is the ability to adjust settings and weather conditions, allowing for a tailored experience that matches your skill level and preferences. I particularly enjoyed tweaking these settings to simulate different challenges, from calm, sunny days to blustery, overcast conditions that tested my skills. Gone are the days of “easy, medium and hard” sliders, now, you can really dig into the settings and change specific elements like wind speed and direction, fairway and green firmness, and green speeds. This level of customization enables you to replicate real-world course conditions, adding depth and realism to each round. Whether you’re a novice looking for a gentle introduction or a seasoned pro seeking a formidable challenge, PGA Tour 2K25’s settings offer an experience that aligns with your golfing aspirations.
PGA Tour 2K25 modes overview
PGA Tour 2K25offers a comprehensive suite of game modes that cater to a wide range of players, from casual enthusiasts to dedicated golf aficionados. Building upon its predecessors, this installment introduces several new features, modes and enhancements that elevate the virtual golfing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the different modes and features in the game:
Authentic pro golf championships and tournaments
One of the key additions this season is the inclusion of three licensed major championships: the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. I really enjoyed playing through iconic tournaments with my “created player,” it added a layer of authenticity that was previously missing from the series. One notable exclusion that remains is The Masters, outside of that, there were plenty of real-life greens to tee off on. There are nearly 30 licensed courses, including new additions like Oakmont Country Club and Royal Portrush Golf Club.
Become a golf legend
Diving into the MyCAREER mode, I was eager to carve out my path to golfing greatness. The journey begins with creating a custom “MyPLAYER,” selecting from four distinct archetypes that align with different playstyles. I went with “Powerhouse,” foregoing finesse to crush the ball down the fairway. This customization allows you to tailor your golfer’s strengths and weaknesses, adding a strategic layer to your progression.
Customization on the course
The MyCAREER mode has been significantly overhauled, offering an expanded creation suite and a new MyPLAYER Progression system. As I continued to build my player, I was able to allocate attribute points to specific skills. You can personalize your experience with licensed apparel and gear from brands like Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Malbon Golf. In addition to this, there are equipment options, including clubs and balls from manufacturers like Callaway, Titleist, Cobra, and Mizuno. This mode also introduces new training sessions and pre-tournament events. You can sim rounds or play through additional gameplay moments. I liked these “bite-size” gameplay moments as they offered ways to train quickly and focus on specific skills.
Build your fanbase
As you advance through your career, you’ll engage in text-based conversations via your in-game cellphone and participate in media scrums. Depending on what you decide to do in certain situations starts to shape your personality and fanbase. While these interactions aim to add depth to the narrative, they are somewhat superficial, lacking the impact I had hoped for on player development.
Always online and Virtual Currency
It’s worth noting that MyCAREER requires an online connection, which might be puzzling for those who prefer a solitary experience. I did lose progress and experienced the odd gameplay hiccup due to connectivity issues, which was disappointing. On the upside, microtransactions are a lot less invasive and primarily cosmetic. The game offers realistic goals for unlocking various accessories through regular gameplay, ensuring that progression feels rewarding without necessitating additional purchases.
Host a cross-platform golf social
If you like social and competitive play, 2K25 introduces cross-platform Societies. Here, you can create or join private clubs, participate in custom tournaments, and track progress on leaderboards. Ranked Tournaments feature cross-platform matchmaking, expanding competitive opportunities and fostering a vibrant online community.
Topgolf and Course Designer return
The popular Topgolf mode returns, offering a casual and entertaining experience that complements the more traditional golfing modes. Additionally, the already excellent Course Designer is back, better than ever. It has been enhanced with improved tools, surfaces, and objects, a higher-resolution terrain system and advanced camera functions. You can upload and share the courses you create with the global community and download created courses that catch your eye.
PGA Tour 2K25 graphics and performance
Graphically, PGA Tour 2K25 makes significant strides forward. The courses are rendered with impressive detail, capturing the unique characteristics of each venue. From the undulating fairways of Quail Hollow to the rugged coastline of Pebble Beach, the visual fidelity enhances the immersion. Character models have also received attention, with more lifelike animations and expressions that bring a sense of realism to the game. While it may not surpass the graphical prowess of some competitors, 2K25 holds its own and delivers a visually satisfying experience.
Final thoughts on PGA Tour 2K25
PGA Tour 2K25 successfully builds upon its predecessors, delivering a more refined and immersive golfing experience. Overall, the entire 2K golf franchise is on the right track adding more improvements with each entry of the franchise. The introduction of the EvoSwing mechanic offers a nuanced approach to gameplay, catering to both newcomers and seasoned players. More licenced courses, tournaments and championships this year help to add much needed authenticity that was missing in 2K23. While not groundbreaking, the graphical and animation improvements contribute to a more lifelike look and feel on the greens.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| +Enhanced Swing Mechanics with the introduction of the EvoSwing system. | -Always-Online Requirement for MyCAREER |
| +Improved Graphics and Presentation | -Limited playable roster with small amount of players to choose from |
| +Authentic Career Mode | -Microtransactions can lead to gameplay imbalances |
| +Greater gameplay customization |
Overall, PGA Tour 2K25 is a content-packed choice for golf enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable virtual golfing experience.
Overall Assessment of PGA Tour 2K25
Gameplay: 4/5
Graphics: 4/5
Sound: 3.5/5
Lasting appeal/Replayability: 4.5/5
Overall rating: 4/5 (80%)
