PGA Tour 2K21 is the coat of arms given to the new game “Golf club”. A name that marks the arrival of 2K studios on this golf simulation. But also the addition of the official license of the PGA Tour. We tested the console version (PS4). Does the game hold up? Take your golf clubs and follow me, it’s going to swing!
Are we going over a course?
Back in the days of the HB Studios Golf Club, the series already bore the label of simulation golf. This year, with the experience and all the know-how of 2K, one can wonder if the franchise has passed a milestone in its evolution.
In most areas, I would say yes. But there is still a way to go to become a benchmark in sports games as the developers at 2K know how to do. Nonetheless, it is arguably the best game of golf released so far, following the shutdown of EA Sports’ Tiger Woods.
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From course creation to official licenses
One of the particularities of the “Golf club” series was to be able to count on its community to create golf courses. Rest assured, with PGA Tour 2K21 it is still possible to do so. And add to that the real officially licensed PGA Tour courses. In particular, the many tournaments playable during your seasons in career mode.
Besides, let’s talk about official PGA Tour licenses. Beyond the many tournaments and courses available, we are entitled to a host of licensed pro players (12 to be exact). But also branded equipment and clothing (Adidas, Callaway, Ralph Laurent,… to name a few).
However, these pro golfers are only there for the official PGA tour skin. Unfortunately, it is impossible to embody them. You can just admire them in action in the career mode.
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Le Gameplay
From the launch of the game, PGA Tour 2K21 will directly offer you tutorials to get started with the title. Very quickly, we realize that the game requires a requirement, especially if we want to use the gameplay without the helpers. Simulation requires, you will need hours of training to master your swing, taking into account the different parameters (wind intensity, power of the blow, the right club, the terrain, etc.). In short, the fundamentals of golf are transcribed in this simulation.
Know all the same that in association mode (online), all aids are deactivated. I advise you to practice before embarking on an online 18-hole course.
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Career mode
The main mode of the title is career mode. This one can be appreciated, even if it sounds a little hollow. Indeed, it is just a pretext to chain tournaments. We start with Q-school, then we take part in the Korn Ferry Tour tournaments. To finally reach the famous PGA Tour. Features like sponsors or rivalry between golfers are available. You’ll play it mostly for gameplay, unlocking gear, and leveling up for online modes.
Overall the game lacks game modes. And the career mode, while fun, lacks depth. If out of naivety you think that 2K has concocted a career mode similar to what we find at NBA 2K, You do not understand at all !
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Soundtrack
Finally, the game’s soundtrack is correct. The menus are accompanied by lively music. Your rounds of golf will be presented by comments from Rich Beem and Luke Elvy. What to give a touch of realism.
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This PGA Tour 2K21 marks the start of a new era for the franchise formerly known as Golf Club. Certainly, improvements are present in almost all areas. But, we hope that the developers at 2K Sports, are still in their early stages. The 2K22 version will be, fingers crossed, a big good forward for golf simulation.
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Final note
7.6
Golf club
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