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PGA Tour 2K21 Review: “As a Bryson DeChambeau unit, it’s on the right track”

Golf is difficult. It’s built on subtle margins of error and details that can lead to club break-up mistakes but also some of the greatest rewards in the sport when done right. Shot-to-shot, the PGA Tour 2K21 packs it brilliantly and delivers a really fun golf simulator that scratches the iron itch, regardless of your previous experience or loyalty.

Fast facts: PGA Tour 2K21

(Image credit: 2K)

Release date: 21 August 2020
Platform (s): PS4, Xbox One, PC
Developer: HB Studios
Publisher: 2K games

The main strengths of PGA Tour 2K21 lie in its solid and very fun fundamentals, which nail the knife-edge feel of the game into real life. It is both indulgent and challenging, offering accessible gameplay that is simple to learn, yet detailed and rich enough to satisfy those who seek more.

You quickly discover that there is a strong emphasis on shooting ability and swing management. Draw, fade, topspin, backspin and loft; they are all present to get you closer to every situation, but they also increase the difficulty of your shot. What results is the right balance of skill and risk, frustration and satisfaction, with each swing. You also need to take into account the tempo and pace of the swing. Perfect hits are possible but elusive, which means that when you execute one, it’s exactly the kind of feeling that keeps you playing. Get it wrong and get tough, but fair results.

(Image credit: 2K)

Thankfully, you’re not left on your own to master all these shades. Shot feedback shows your tempo and swing lines are important aids and benchmarks, allowing you to improve shot after shot. On the green, alongside the familiar gradient colors and grid lines, a preview line of the put is welcome and limiting its use to, at most, one look per hole means you are still addicted to your technique (and eyeballs) . You can play all of your rounds neatly this way by disabling the HUD, relying solely on your skills, your interpretation of conditions and the Yardage Book to encourage immersion and realism.

Fairway to heaven

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