This year marks the 25th anniversary of the NBA 2K series, which originally made its debut in 1999 on the Sega Dreamcast. It was a benchmark moment for video game basketball and the series has evolved and improved with each installment. As a big fan of the Dreamcast and the 2K series, the high-fidelity version of the game offered a look into the future of what basketball video games could offer. Fast forward to today and it is one of the most successful and influential sports games of all time. The series has featured some of the most iconic and legendary players in NBA history on its covers, from Michael Jordan to Shaquille O’Neal. NBA 2K has left an indelible mark on basketball culture. 

To celebrate this year none other than Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest to ever play the game, graces the cover of NBA 2K24. His legacy and impact on basketball are honored and celebrated in NBA 2K24. This year the game features a special “Mamba Moments” mode where you can relive some of his most memorable performances. Along with this, 2K24 introduces some new features and improvements to the gameplay like ProPLAY technology, the adrenaline boost system along with enhanced graphics and performance. Let’s hit the hardcourt and explore all that NBA 2K24 has to offer in my full review.

Platform(s): PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC
Developer(s): Visual Concepts
Publisher(s): 2K Sports
Genre: Sports
Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone

NBA 2K24 introduces some new improvements to the core gameplay this year. The most notable feature is the ProPLAY technology, which uses real NBA footage to create realistic animations and movements for the players. This new addition really gives the gameplay a more authentic feel. I found there were far less instances of player clipping from last year’s iteration as I was getting “caught” less with graphical and animation hitches. These improvements via the ProPLAY technology also have star players use their signature moves that match their real-life counterparts. For example, Steph Curry’s quick handles and versatile pull-up jumpers look better than ever and Kevin Durant distinctive shooting style and a smooth release is almost frame-by-frame authentic to the real thing. The ProPLAY technology is exclusive to the PS5, Xbox Series S|X and PC so keep this in mind when deciding on which version to buy.

One of the big changes in NBA 2K24 is the improved player AI, which makes the game more challenging and realistic. I found the CPU was adapting to my playstyle and tendencies on the fly, with greater awareness on the court. I also faced smarter and more aggressive opponents who will tried to exploit my weaknesses. For example, in one game I was lining up quite a few 3s and the AI tried to close out on me and forced me to drive more often. I also found the CPU will adjust its strategy depending on the score and time left in the game. This means that you will have to be more careful and creative with your decisions and actions, as the AI will not let you get away with the same moves repeatedly.

2K24 offers a variety of single-player and multiplayer game modes, offering dozens of hours play. The most prominent mode is MyCAREER, where you can create your own custom player and follow their journey from prospect to NBA legend. In this mode you can interact with other players, coaches, and agents to affect your career path. You can also join the W and pursue a career in the WNBA which is new this season.

You can also play in The City (PS5, Xbox Series and PC) or The Neighborhood (PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch). The City is larger and needs the extra of power of the PS5, PC or Series S|X to properly run the experience. These areas let you roam around an open-world environment and participate in various activities and events with other online players.

MyTEAM returns where you can build your own dream team of NBA players from past and present. You can collect player cards, customize your lineup, compete in various challenges and tournaments, and earn rewards. You can also use the new Salary Cap Mode to test your skills and strategy with a limited budget. Additionally, you can access the Player Market to buy and sell cards with other players. One of the biggest and most welcome changes is MyTEAM now supports crossplay. You can now play with or compete with players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in Triple Threat Online Co-Op. Of note, I experienced quite a bit of lag playing and exploring online modes within NBA 2K24. I was really hoping 2K24 might have a more lag free experience this season, but the best basketball I’ve played so far is offline. 

If you prefer to take control of an NBA franchise, you can play in MyNBA mode. There you can manage every aspect of your team, from roster moves to finances. You can also customize your league with historic and custom teams, as well as adjust various settings and rules. Moreover, you can experience different eras of NBA history, including the new LeBron Era new to 2K24. Overall, there are quite a few modes to dig into to, that build upon what was offered with 2K23. It would be ideal to see more creativity in some of these areas as they can become repetitive. Overall, there is plenty of top tier content to experience. The biggest issue is many of the modes don’t offer much of an overhaul from previous instalments in the series. There is quite a bit added to make the upgrade to 2K24 worth it.

One of the biggest problems with the game is the excessive use of microtransactions. The frequency you’re pushed toward using real money to purchase VC pulls you out of the experience. These in-game purchases are optional but they become essential if you want to compete with other players online. This is why I found some of my best moments with the game offline, enjoying the core experience.

NBA 2K24 is a fitting tribute for the 25th anniversary of the series, as it has the biggest improvements where it matters most: on the court. The gameplay improvements offer gamers a more realistic and authentic basketball experience. From the ProPLAY technology to the improved player AI, there are plenty of new features that make the on-court action the best it’s ever been. The MyCAREER mode, MyTEAM, and MyNBA offer hours of play, with added features like cross play support that enhances the experience. However, the overabundance of microtransactions can detract from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, NBA 2K24 is a solid game that honors the legacy and influence of the NBA 2K series. It delivers a satisfying basketball experience that I recommend for any basketball fan.

+ProPLAY technology elevates the game with ultra-realistic animations
+2K24 celebrates Kobe Bryant’s legacy with “Mamba Moments”
+Upgraded player AI offers a more challenging and realistic gaming experience.

-Microtransactions detract from the overall NBA 2K24 experience
-Gameplay lag in online modes

Gameplay: 4/5
Graphics: 4/5
Sound: 3.5/5
Lasting Appeal/Replayability: 4/5

Purchase NBA 2K24 today!

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