There isn't much I can add to Chi's (admittedly eloquent) review. I agree
that everything in NBA2K from the graphics and animations to the gameplay and sounds are unparalleled. So much so that the exclusion
of some standard basketball mainstays like the 3-point contest went unnoticed or, if I did notice, I didn't much care at that point.
It's what NBA2K does so well that stands out and overwhelms me with the same impact I get from watching real-life ball games. With
this release, Visual Concepts has forever risen my expectations for all "next generation" basketball videogames and sports videogames
in general. I expect in NBA 2001 (the likely name of the NBA2K's sequel) to see fans actually walking out on blowout games and for
play to be interrupted by towel boys mopping up wet spots on the court. I am shocked to hear myself say it because I would never have
asked for that level of detail in a sports game before playing NBA2K. That is how revolutionary I found this game and how impactful
it could be on the rest of the industry if it cared to pay attention. Plain and simple, NBA2K is the definitive basketball game for
any videogame console to date and is a must for any basketball fan.
- Published December 13, 1999
Reader Second Opinions
|