Five Must-Have NBA Video Games That We Can't Do Without

The NBA Playoffs are currently underway and the excitement is palpable. With eight teams still in the running, millions of fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes for their favorite teams. However, for those of us who simply can't wait, passing the time with a game of NBA 2K is a satisfying alternative. If you're also in the mood for some virtual basketball action, here are five top-tier NBA video games that we highly recommend.

5. NBA Jam (1993)

NBA Jam has spawned various iterations, but it owes its existence to the classic 1993 title that captivated both arcade-goers and gamers alike. What makes NBA Jam stand out is its appeal to casual players and non-basketball enthusiasts. While it was one of the earliest basketball games to feature real-life players from the league, it is far from a realistic simulator.

Gameplay-wise, NBA Jam is a larger-than-life experience. It offers two-on-two basketball with no limitations or logic. Want to perform an outrageous dunk from the three-point line? Knock yourself out! Feel like shoving everyone out of the way while your teammate fakes a three-pointer before tossing you an alley-oop? Go for it! The action is fast-paced, and matches are short, making it an easy game to pick up and play.

For a game that's almost 30 years old, NBA Jam's presentation is impressive. The crowd erupts in cheers when you score, the commentators deliver iconic lines, and there are fake sponsorships littered throughout the arena, adding to the authentic NBA atmosphere.

Granted, it lacks the realism and complexity of more recent NBA titles, but NBA Jam's influence and legacy are undeniable, making it a must-have on any list of top NBA video games.

4. NBA Street Vol. 2

Like NBA Jam, the NBA Street series caters to casual gamers and those looking to get into basketball. Both games provide an arcade-style experience from the comfort of your own home.

NBA Street features three-on-three basketball with a selection of 29 teams and 12 courts to choose from. The game also introduced Gamebreaker 2, an upgraded version of a special shot that rewards you with points while taking away from your opponents. There is no timer, with the first player to score 21 points declared the winner. These gameplay mechanics create an enjoyable arcade-style experience, enhanced with a soundtrack that exudes a street vibe.

One of the game's strengths is the incentives it offers to keep playing. You can unlock various players, jerseys, courts, and NBA legends from the past. If you're looking to dominate your opponents, you can even form a team with three Michael Jordans (two from his time in Chicago and the Washington Wizards variation). It's also a nice touch that you can earn reward points by playing any game mode, allowing you to unlock players and courts without having to play modes you don't enjoy.

While the other games in the NBA Street series are also entertaining and deserving of recognition, there's something special about Volume 2 that keeps fans returning for more.

3. NBA Live 2003

Despite its age and inability to match up to newer titles, NBA Live 2003 deserves recognition for its significant contributions to the basketball video game genre. The game introduced a freestyle control system that eased gameplay, a welcome change for players who remember cramped fingers from mashing the D-pad on their PS1 consoles.

NBA Live 03 also made improvements to several other features. The AI on defense no longer allows you to waste the clock, learning from its mistakes and sending extra defenders to block your shots. Fatigue is a more realistic factor, and your player can't recharge after a mere ten seconds, requiring you to play more strategically.

The game strikes a balance between arcade-style and simulation basketball, lacking the realism of newer NBA titles but showcasing the progress developers made towards a more lifelike experience. The player models, in particular, look impressive up close.

Unfortunately, Electronic Arts Sports was unable to sustain the success of the NBA Live franchise, as it eventually fell behind the 2K series. Despite efforts to revive the series, including two cancellations (NBA Live 13 and NBA Live 20), mixed reviews and declining popularity have left the franchise languishing in obscurity.

2. NBA 2K23

Take-Two Interactive has firmly established itself as the leading force in the future of NBA video games, and their latest NBA 2K installment is a testament to that.

There's not much to add about the new NBA games that hasn't already been said. The gameplay is excellent, the player models and stadiums are stunning, and the commentary is top-notch, with personalities like Doris Burke and Darius Aldridge enhancing the presentation. Everything from the MyCareer mode's rivalry with Shep Owens to meetings with agents and press personnel makes for an immersive, authentic basketball experience.

While this game could easily claim the top spot, many fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the increasing prevalence of pay-to-win microtransactions. NBA 2K has always had a Virtual Currency system, but it's becoming more excessive with time. For instance, purchasing 450,000 VC will set you back $99.99 (USD), enough to max out your player's build immediately. This pushes the total cost of the game well over $150, regardless of which generation you're playing on, which is a cause for concern.

In addition, if you are keen on playing NBA 2K23 and want to buy some virtual currencies such as NBA 2K23 MT, I suggest you go to NBA2King to have a look, they are the best NBA 2K MT store. In addition to NBA 2K23, NBA 2K24 is also coming soon, which is worth looking forward to.

1. NBA 2K21

The primary reason why NBA 2K21 stands out when compared to NBA 2K23 is its Neighborhood feature. NBA 2K games typically offer a semi-open world experience where players can explore the apartments, gyms, shops, courts, and fashion runways. While 2K23 has the GOAT Boat and an awesome City, the latter is only available to players using the ninth generation of systems.

NBA 2K21 is the last game in the series to feature The Neighborhood. Although the City is impressive, the Neighborhood feels more culturally appropriate for basketball. It includes small details such as Kobe Bryant graffiti in honor of the late Black Mamba, and the little out-of-the-way shops provide a sense of exploration. However, personal preference plays a significant role here, and those who prefer a larger environment may find the next-generation versions of these open worlds more appealing.

Gameplay-wise, not much has changed. 2K has perfected gameplay for this series a long time ago, and if it isn't broken, why fix it? The microtransactions remain a problem with this title, and Take-Two will have to address this issue for future titles.

MyCareer remains one of the most detailed and in-depth story modes ever seen in a sports video game. You can take sponsorships, do interviews before, during, and after the game, work out, and play against other NBA stars.

Basketball fans are lucky in that there are plenty of good video games available, whether you're seeking an authentic or arcade-style experience.