2K Games has released a new gameplay trailer for PGA TOUR 2K25 detailing some of the game's new features, but one returning feature is sure to get fans particularly excited. Unlike most sports titles, the PGA Tour 2K games have so far foregone annual releases in favor of a new game every couple of years that refines the previous games' mechanics with new ideas and features. PGA 2K25 is poised to be the biggest and best entry in the series yet, which is saying something.

PGA 2K25 is set to hone its golf gameplay with improved physics and swinging mechanics, including a "Perfect Swing" setting that aims to help novice players feel like a pro when they hit the ball. Skilled players looking for a challenge won't be left in the lurch, however, thanks to the confirmation that PGA 2K25 will include cross-platform ranked matchmaking.

Cross-Platform Ranked Matchmaking Is Back For PGA 2K25

Players Across All Platforms Can Compete Against Each Other

Among the suite of new features coming to PGA 2K25, the new gameplay trailer also confirmed that the game will include cross-platform online play. This means that players on both consoles and PC can play against each other regardless of platform in all available online modes, including Societies, private matches, casual play, and--most excitingly--ranked matchmaking. 2K Games confirmed the addition in its newsroom post about PGA 2K25's new features.

For more competitive players, Cross-platform Ranked Matchmaking returns in PGA TOUR 2K25. This deepens the pool of competition for players who are ready to test their skills and prove their dominance on the “dance floor.”

While the main appeal of cross-platform play in PGA 2K25 for many players will be the opportunity to hit the links with their friends more easily, the option for ranked matchmaking will allow players to test their mettle against opponents on all platforms. The feature was first added in the well-reviewed PGA TOUR 2K23 and proved to be a massive boon for that game's community. Hopefully, 2K Games has only further improved its implementation over the last three years and PGA 2K25 will be able to shine even brighter.

How Cross-Platform Ranked Matchmaking Works

Make Sure The Setting Is Toggled On And You're Good To Go

Ranked matchmaking in PGA 2K25 looks to be following a similar vein as what was offered in PGA 2K23. By participating in online matches, players will earn points and rise through the ranks, reaching new golf-themed tiers like Eagle or Condor as they perform better and better. The game will also offer daily and weekly tournaments for players to participate in through the Ranked Tours option.

In order to tee off against players on other platforms in PGA 2K25, players will simply need to enable the cross-platform option on their platform of choice. In PGA 2K23, this option was always toggled on by default in the PC version, while Xbox players could choose to turn it off in the console's system settings. On PlayStation, the setting was turned off by default and had to be toggled on in the game's settings menu, so PGA 2K25 players will likely want to check all of their settings before diving into online matchmaking.

PGA 2K25's ranked modes will operate on a seasonal basis, with each new season offering new rewards for players to earn through online matchmaking. This also means that the game's leaderboards will be reset at the end of a season, so players won't be able to rest on their laurels just because they managed to hit Condor rank once in PGA 2K25.

Why Ranked Matchmaking Is Perfect For Competitive PGA Players

More Players, More Competition

Ranked Matchmaking benefits greatly from having a cross-platform option simply because it means there will be a larger player base to compete against. With PGA 2K25 releasing on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and on PC, players will be split across three platforms, but they won't have to remain divided into separate communities. If a player manages to reach the top ranks of the game, it doesn't just mean they're the best on Xbox or PlayStation--they're the best in the entire game.

Cross-platform play has gradually become a standard in recent years, though it still often provides problems. Marvel Rivals allowed for full cross-platform play at launch, but only allows unrestricted mingling in its casual modes while competitive play keeps PC and console players separated due to any possible balance issues for players on controllers competing against players on mouse and keyboard. PGA 2K25 takes a refreshing approach by eschewing those kinds of boundaries and allowing players to compete against each other unrestricted.

PGA 2K25 launches worldwide on February 28, and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and on PC via Steam. Those looking to get an early start can pre-order the Digital Deluxe Edition of PGA 2K25 to get seven days of early access in addition to several other exclusive bonuses. With more features, gameplay mechanics, customization options, difficulty settings than ever before in a gorgeous package backed by serious talent, PGA TOUR 2K25 is sure to keep players competing for many seasons to come.

Source: 2K, PGA Tour 2K/YouTube