PGA Tour 2K23

70%
Game Brain Score Based on 7,566 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • monetization
PGA Tour 2K23 Game Cover
Hone your swing and climb the leader board of the PGA with PGA Tour 2K23
Starting at $18.40Buy now
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PGA TOUR 2K23 is a golf simulation video game that offers a realistic golfing experience with professional PGA TOUR athletes. It features a career mode, online multiplayer, and a course designer, where players can create and share their own custom golf courses. The game also includes real-world golf courses and a variety of gameplay options, providing a challenging and engaging experience for both casual and experienced golfers.

  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

70%
Audience ScoreBased on 7,566 reviews
gameplay200 positive mentions
monetization176 negative mentions
  • gameplay638 mentions

    The gameplay of PGA Tour 2K23 has received mixed reviews, with many players praising the graphics and the introduction of new swing mechanics, particularly the 3-click system, which some find more accessible. However, numerous criticisms highlight the inconsistency and sensitivity of the swing mechanics, leading to frustrating experiences, especially for those familiar with previous iterations. Overall, while the core gameplay is enjoyable and offers a realistic golf experience, many players feel that significant improvements are still needed to address the mechanics and bugs that detract from the overall enjoyment.

    • “From the stunning graphics to the realistic gameplay mechanics, every aspect of this game is meticulously crafted to bring the excitement of the PGA Tour to life.”
    • “The swing mechanics are smooth and responsive, replicating the delicate balance between power and control that makes golf such an engaging sport.”
    • “With its masterful gameplay mechanics, awe-inspiring courses, engaging career mode, and endless customization options, this game offers an unrivaled golfing experience.”
    • “That's not even getting into the absolute garbage elevation mechanics.”
    • “The swing mechanics are truly awful and feel like they change in the middle of every round.”
    • “Gameplay is just not worth the frustration.”
  • graphics628 mentions

    The graphics in PGA Tour 2K23 receive mixed reviews, with many players praising the overall visual quality and realism, particularly in environmental details and course design. However, some users express disappointment, noting that the graphics do not significantly improve upon those of its predecessor, 2K21, and highlight issues such as performance lag and dated character models. Overall, while the game features beautiful courses and improved textures, it falls short of expectations for a modern release, especially when compared to competitors like EA Sports.

    • “Graphics are beautiful, the physics are properly incorporated so I feel like every environmental difference has an effect that I must logically account for (wind, slope, trees).”
    • “From the stunning graphics to the realistic gameplay mechanics, every aspect of this game is meticulously crafted to bring the excitement of the PGA Tour to life.”
    • “The graphics are tremendous!”
    • “The graphics and artistic merits of the game are lacking when it comes to the characters' faces and movement.”
    • “The graphics are quite horrible compared to most current gen games out now and the NPCs are horrid to stare at.”
    • “The graphics are just boring and not a lot of courses.”
  • monetization250 mentions

    The monetization strategy of this golf game has drawn significant criticism, with players reporting an overwhelming presence of intrusive ads and aggressive microtransactions that detract from the overall experience. Many reviewers describe it as a "cash grab," highlighting the constant bombardment of advertisements for in-game purchases, which are often seen as unnecessary in a paid title. While some players note that in-game currency can be earned through gameplay, the pervasive nature of ads and the focus on upselling cosmetic items have left a negative impression on the community.

    • “Microtransactions and other issues aside, it's a good golf game.”
    • “Also nice that microtransactions are completely unnecessary as in-game currency is very easy to come by.”
    • “To everyone complaining about the microtransactions, you simply do not need to buy VC in this game and just earn the VC through playing.”
    • “Very intrusive advertisement for microtransactions.”
    • “Invasive advertisements for the in-game currency do not offer any solace when the core game is already dysfunctional because of the above.”
    • “The game still gets a negative review for its pay-to-win loot boxes and for bombarding me with ads every time I launch the title; all EA Sports games have these problems, and I don't see them going away anytime soon.”
  • stability152 mentions

    The game's stability is heavily criticized, with numerous reports of bugs, glitches, and frequent crashes, particularly during multiplayer sessions. While some players note that it runs well on specific platforms like the Steam Deck, the overall experience is marred by random freezes and performance issues, making it frustrating for many users. Despite its enjoyable gameplay, the persistent technical problems significantly detract from its appeal.

    • “Runs great on the Steam Deck.”
    • “No glitches, smooth textures.”
    • “Looks and runs great so far.”
    • “Game freezes every time playing multiplayer.”
    • “The game crashes constantly, it freezes, and EA tries to milk money from dead gypsy horses... constantly trying to harvest money.”
    • “But constantly freezes to the point where it is basically unusable despite my computer having recommended specs.”
  • optimization102 mentions

    The game's optimization has received significant criticism, with players reporting persistent stuttering and frame rate issues even on high-end hardware, making gameplay frustrating and often unplayable. While some users have found workarounds to improve performance, the overall consensus is that the game is poorly optimized for a AAA title, detracting from the experience. Despite some improvements over previous versions, many still feel that performance should be prioritized over graphics to enhance gameplay.

    • “The game runs well and the three-click is okay; it at least runs smoothly.”
    • “Improved performance.”
    • “2k23 did a great job of offering more character-based performance improvement options, which I felt was something that was missing from 2k21 as performance was largely based on equipment benefits over character-specific attributes.”
    • “I've spent countless hours on 2k21, but the stuttering in this game, despite having a high-end system and the really poor HDR implementation, was just too distracting to enjoy.”
    • “Stuttering built into the engine; I have tried every 'fix' I could find to optimize this out, and it is not happening.”
    • “Near constant stuttering and frame-time issues persist even with extremely high-end hardware.”
  • music40 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players praising the improved soundtrack and relaxing ambiance that enhances the overall experience. While some enjoy the menu music and find it hype, others express a desire for more variety and customization in the musical options. Overall, the transition from previous versions is noted as a significant improvement, contributing to a more immersive and enjoyable gameplay atmosphere.

    • “The improvements from PGA 2K21 are great such as better soundtrack, crossplay for much shorter queue times, ranked mode, and way more customization with clubs.”
    • “This visual symphony is accentuated by the game's sound design - the soft rustle of leaves, the distant song of birds, the satisfying thud of club meeting ball - everything serves to wrap the player in a cocoon of immersive tranquility.”
    • “Fun game (very addictive), good graphics, good physics, good commentary, relaxing music.”
    • “Wish we could have some more musical ambiance to choose from, or maybe more commentary/chatter.”
    • “I played this while downloading another title on Steam and the game commentary and music stuttered on most of the 18 holes and took a significantly long time to load the course before I could play.”
    • “I hate the music, the announcers, and the navigation of the menus.”
  • grinding38 mentions

    Players express mixed feelings about grinding in the game, with many finding it excessively tedious and time-consuming, often requiring significant investment or cash to progress. While some enjoy the gameplay loop and the challenge of grinding, others feel it detracts from casual play and leads to frustration, especially with slow XP gains and the need to repurchase items. Overall, the grind is seen as a barrier for casual players, with a clear push towards monetization through season passes and shortcuts.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “They essentially made this game impossible for anyone that wants to play this casually with friends and isn't interested in grinding the game to get a bunch of nonsense.”
    • “A fair number of the unlockables are progress gated which is fine I suppose, but XP is insanely slow and grindy in an attempt to make you drop cash for a season pass for a 30% boost + 20 free levels of the season pass unlocks.”
    • “That said, though with just a few hours in, I can 100% promise this game is going to be a slow, grindy mess without the use of a credit card.”
  • story34 mentions

    The game's story aspect is largely criticized for its absence, with many users noting that there is no substantial narrative or engaging storyline, likening it to playing a game like Temple Run without a plot. While some appreciate the lack of intrusive cutscenes, they express disappointment in the superficiality of the rivalry and sponsorship systems, suggesting a desire for a more developed career mode. Overall, the consensus is that the game feels incomplete in terms of storytelling, forcing players to rely on online play for progression.

    • “✅ I like playing Temple Runners for the story.”
    • “🔲 Epic story.”
    • “They're there, but you can definitely get very good online by just playing the story through a couple of times.”
    • “This game has no story.”
    • “Maybe I'm spoiled by NBA 2K, but not only is there no story here, but the rivalry and sponsor systems seem an utter afterthought.”
    • “Typical EA game, boring with no story modes.”
  • humor32 mentions

    The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with players finding enjoyment in the absurdity of character creation and the exaggerated commentary, though some aspects, like the repetitive rival cutscenes, can become tiresome. Voice chat adds a layer of hilarity, and the inclusion of characters like John Cena is seen as a funny touch. Overall, while the humor can be entertaining, some feel it lacks the edge and creativity of earlier titles in the series.

    • “Very funny game!”
    • “Oh, and you can play as John Cena, which is kind of hilarious in my opinion.”
    • “The commentary provides hilariously inaccurate shot feedback, and became annoyingly redundant after just 4 rounds of play.”
  • replayability16 mentions

    Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability, with many users noting its fun mechanics and character development as key factors. However, some critiques mention a lack of depth that could limit long-term engagement. Despite this, the improvements in graphics and gameplay from previous versions contribute to a generally positive replay value.

    • “✅ infinitely replayable”
    • “Lots of replay value here.”
    • “2k23 takes a big leap forward from TGC 2019, vastly improved graphics and an emphasis on character development, making the game more replayable.”
    • “The main issue is a lack of depth or replayability.”
    • “2K23 takes a big leap forward from TGC 2019, vastly improved graphics and an emphasis on character development, making the game more replayable.”
    • “There is lots of replay value here.”
  • atmosphere10 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is praised for its chill vibe and engaging presence, fostering camaraderie during friendly matches and intense tournaments. While some players note improvements in atmospheric elements like lighting, others feel that the overall atmosphere could still be enhanced. The inclusion of professional players is seen as a positive factor that contributes to the game's immersive environment.

    • “Has great atmospheric presence, very chill, and lets me knock out a round in under 30 minutes.”
    • “Friendly matches and intense tournaments create an atmosphere of camaraderie and healthy competition, keeping me engaged for hours on end.”
    • “There is a slightly better atmospheric feel to the game, basically due to lighting changes.”
    • “What I miss is the atmosphere.”
    • “- Adding real pros into the mix definitely helps with the overall atmosphere of things.”
    • “What I miss is the atmosphere.”
  • emotional8 mentions

    Players express a strong emotional connection to the game, feeling as though they are living their golfing dreams through dynamic events and competition against PGA pros. The experience evokes deep feelings, akin to real golf, though some users note that certain camera angles can be disorienting. Overall, the game elicits a mix of joy and frustration, making it both compelling and challenging.

    • “The dynamic events and the chance to compete against PGA Tour pros made me feel like I was living my golfing dream.”
    • “It's just like real golf; it makes you want to cry but won't let you quit.”
  • character development4 mentions

    Character development in 2K23 shows significant improvement over previous versions, particularly in graphics and replayability. However, users express disappointment with the limited customization options for personal golfers, making it difficult to create a character that resembles them.

    • “2K23 takes a big leap forward from TGC 2019, vastly improved graphics and an emphasis on character development, making the game more replayable.”
    • “But...the character design for your personal golfer is nowhere near as good on other versions and it's impossible to create one that looks anything like you.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

82% average critic score

Buy PGA Tour 2K23

Play time

31hMedian play time
384hAverage play time
10-203hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 38 analyzed playthroughs

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