PGA Tour 2K21 was an absolute smash last year. With over 2 million copies sold, it brought golf games well and truly back.
But perhaps the 2K-HB collab was a victim of its own success, with EA deciding to bring back its PGA Tour franchise - setting up a mouth-watering battle between the developers.
Let Battle Commence
"We’re thrilled to have sold more than 2 million units of PGA Tour 2K21, and since launch, we’ve continued to offer our players new courses, game modes, and customization options so they always have something new to enjoy," said Josh Muise, Creative Director at HB Studios.
"PGA TOUR 2K21 is built around the belief that golf is a game for everyone, whether you are a pro or looking to try your luck for the first time, so we try to offer something for every level of golf video game enthusiast."
Of course, the re-entry of rivals EA into the golfing space does put a lot of pressure on 2K, but there are reasons to be hopeful for fans of the franchise.
"We know 2K is committed to the PGA TOUR 2K franchise, and we’re excited about what the additional investment in both the right people and resources will mean for future releases."
Plus, there's a small factor that Tiger Woods is now working with the franchise...
"Making his golf game comeback with the PGA TOUR 2K franchise will be a fantastic addition for future titles and I'm sure our players will love what we have in store as Tiger will lend his expertise and insights to the development and direction of the franchise.
"Nobody in the world knows the game of golf like Tiger Woods."
Road to Glory
So what has made PGA Tour 2K21 such a hit?
"Our studio heritage with The Golf Club (HB's previous franchise) garnered us fans around the world and we knew when working with 2K, we had to ensure we build off what we created with The Golf Club and make this game the best possible golf simulation on the market.
"We believe we delivered that for golf purists but also balanced this with fun new modes and features such as Divot Derby and the Clubhouse Pass for more casual gamers."
Those two game features have been a revelation for the community.
"We’re always looking at ways to add content for our players and while we have added new courses and lots of new apparel for their MyPLAYER creations, we also wanted to provide our players with a fun multiplayer mode.
"We’ve never seen something like Divot Derby in golf games and playing against up to 20 players in a shoot-out style competition with single-elimination knockouts adds something new and exciting for our fans.
"With Clubhouse Pass, we know a seasons-based rewards feature would be of interest to our fans.
"We know players love to level up their created MyPLAYER and customise them with new apparel and earn extra XP and VC.
"It was important for us to include both a free and paid option for our players and we’ve been excited about the uptake and engagement with both Season 1 and 2."
Join the fun
If you are yet to play PGA Tour 2K21 - just where have you been!
"I believe we have something for every kind of golfer.
"For those who like to create a player and take them to the summit of Golf, our Career Mode allows you to battle it out to become the FedExCup Champion by taking on PGA TOUR pros during your very own career, earning rewards and gear along the way.
"You can also create and personalize your MyPLAYER with equipment and apparel from brands you love and design your ultimate course with 1,000s of custom options. There are so many options and features available.
"If an arcade-style multiplayer game is more to your liking, we’ve got Divot Derby, a fast-paced shoot-out style game that has everyone teeing off at the same time for a shot at a limited number of slots to continue to the next hole.
"It’s a fight to the finish every time!"
PGA Tour 2K21 is available now on PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch and Stadia.