In 2025, the top ten best-selling video games in the US featured four sports titles. NBA 2K26, Madden NFL 26, EA Sports College Football 26, and EA Sports FC 26 all made the list, showing the genre’s popularity among players.
Developers are constantly trying to develop the next big sports simulator experience, which is why American video game publisher 2K currently boasts several titles, including NBA 2K, WWE 2K, and Topspin 2K. However, its next year’s eagerly anticipated release of PGA Tour 2K27 that’s really getting sports fans excited.
Before we get ahead of ourselves, it’s worth looking back at the hype that preceded the unveiling of PGA 2K25. Released to great fanfare in February 2025, the game promised an ever more immersive and realistic golfing experience. In this article, we examine whether or not it lived up to the hype, and if we can start to get excited about PGA 2K27.
Hit or Miss?
PGA 2K25 was undoubtedly a commercial success, with sales figures surpassing those of 2K23. Critics were also enthusiastic, with predominantly positive reviews, although many of these were based on the significant improvement it showed over its disappointing predecessor.
The new EvoSwing mechanics were highly praised. They allow players to tailor the experience to suit all skill levels by creating their own unique swing. Reviews said the system allows players to progress at their own pace and mimics the true physics and weighted feel of handling a real golf club.
Visually, the game was a massive step up from its previous iteration, with the level of detail, realism, and sharpness all notable. Improved course design with added layers of detail, plus more refined putting controls, were also praised.
There were minor criticisms levelled at the game, with some feeling the in-game economy relied too heavily on grinding or pushed microtransactions for Virtual Currency upgrades. Others questioned the new personality and fan popularity metrics, saying they felt a little superficial.
New Game Features
There were some huge upgrades in 2K23, not least the headline inclusion of officially licensed Major Championships. For the very first time, the franchise allows users to play the U.S. Open, the Open Championship, and the PGA Championship.
Players can now put themselves in the shoes of the professionals at the U.S. Open, and maybe even get an insight into who they think is going to win. You can check out the Major golf betting or view more odds from DraftKings here.
Other famous courses that have opened their doors include legendary venues such as The Old Course at St Andrews Links, Royal Portrush, Oakmont Country Club, and Quail Hollow. Other popular new features include:
New Shots
Alongside the introduction of the impressive EvoSwing, PGA 2K25 saw even more new shot types added to the list, such as the Long Flop, Fairway Stinger, and Long Knockdown. These give users even more creative ways of navigating their way around the different courses – no matter where their ball may be!
New Challenges
This is a new bite-sized, map-based gameplay mode. It allows players to take on specific skill tests and objectives in order to conquer territory, unlock rewards, and improve their game. New themed maps continue to roll out throughout the season to maintain interest.
MyPLAYER
The most customizable MyPLAYER experience yet offers players the ability to create their perfect golfer. More base head models have been added, and there’s a wider variety of skin tones and hair options. You can also play with body type, including shape, muscle definition, and height.
MyCAREER
The single-player game mode allows players to create their own MyPLAYER and start their golfing journey to the top. They can compete in tournaments, earn sponsorships, manage their popularity, and develop their golf skills as they try to climb the rankings and challenge for a Major.
There’s all-new training and pre-tournament events here too, while the realisation that time is short for many gamers has led to the welcome addition of Dynamic Rounds and Interactive Simulation.
Dynamic Rounds allows users to choose a smaller section of the course rather than a full 18 holes. Interactive Simulation allows players to jump in and out of rounds at any time to choose the holes they want to play.
PGA 2K27 Release Date
While no official date has yet been confirmed, based on previous iterations, the game is expected to be launched in February or March 2027. The title is released every two years because, unlike football or soccer, golf does not have regular roster changes or annual jersey upgrades.
While there are regular game updates and patches for releases, the two-year gap gives developers time to build major upgrades instead of pushing through unnecessary yearly sequels with minor changes.
What Can Fans Expect?
There are plenty of reasons for fans to be very excited about PGA 2K27. Details are still scarce as yet, but there’s growing optimism and excitement that 2K might secure the exclusive Augusta National Masters license, allowing players to compete in all 4 Majors for the first time. Others are crossing their fingers for the addition of the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup.
PGA 2k25 was a major improvement from the previous iteration, and if the developers can maintain that trajectory, golf fans are in for a treat.