NBA 2K24 presents a familiar challenge for reviewers: how to assess a game with diverse modes that cater to vastly different player preferences. This review focuses on the core gameplay experience and popular modes like MyTeam and MyGM, offering insights for those seeking a team-focused basketball simulation. If your primary interest lies in dominating The City or perfecting your dribbling skills, this review might not be your ideal guide.
My personal experience with NBA 2K23 involved around 1,200 hours, primarily in MyTeam and MyGM, with a brief stint in MyCareer. My preference leans towards managing and strategizing with a full team, rather than the individual player focus of MyCareer.
Refined Gameplay in NBA 2K24
alt text: Brandon Roy performing a dribble move in NBA 2K24.While subject to potential changes through future patches, the on-court gameplay in NBA 2K24 feels noticeably improved. The introduction of Pro Play, incorporating animations from real NBA games, has reduced the “floaty” player movement prevalent in previous iterations. Shooting feels more forgiving, even on higher difficulty settings.
However, this increased shooting accuracy also extends to potentially overpowered scenarios, such as players consistently making half-court shots with the Limitless Range badge. While 2K24 aims for an enjoyable experience, this aspect might require balancing adjustments. Overall, the gameplay refinements are incremental rather than revolutionary, with subtle improvements like enhanced AI defense against Triangle cuts.
Streamlined MyCareer, but Microtransactions Persist
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NBA 2K24 streamlines MyCareer, allowing quicker access to NBA games without mandatory side quests. While a welcome change, the pervasive microtransactions remain a significant drawback. Upgrading a player from a 60 Overall Rating to 85 could easily cost $50, with a fully maxed-out player potentially exceeding $100. While earning Virtual Currency through gameplay is possible, the grind required to compete without spending real money feels excessive in a $70 game.
Furthermore, MyCareer suffers from occasional polish issues, particularly within its narrative elements. Repetitive video messages from NPCs, like Mark Cuban congratulating the player on their “debut” game multiple times, detract from the overall experience and suggest a lack of refinement.
MyTeam: Where Microtransactions Reign Supreme
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MyTeam, the mode designed for building a dream team of NBA stars, heavily favors players willing to invest substantial amounts of money. Without significant spending, competing against online opponents who have invested heavily in their teams becomes a daunting challenge. The removal of the Auction House in favor of a 2K-controlled Player Market further restricts budget-conscious players. While MyTeam offers offline enjoyment, the escalating costs associated with competitive online play raise concerns about long-term sustainability.
Secondary Modes Show Potential, but Lack Depth
alt text: A close-up of a player's face in NBA 2K24, highlighting the game's detailed graphics.Mamba Moments provides a nostalgic journey through Kobe Bryant’s career, but offers limited replay value. MyGM, while offering a simplified “Lite” version for casual players, misses opportunities to expand its historical scope. The ability to revisit past NBA eras is a highlight, but the addition of only one new era feels underwhelming. Expanding the historical depth of MyGM could significantly enhance its longevity.
A Solid Foundation Undermined by Microtransactions
NBA 2K24 delivers enjoyable on-court action and compelling core modes, but the overwhelming presence of microtransactions casts a shadow over the overall experience. While not a reason to avoid the game entirely, potential buyers should be aware of the aggressive monetization strategies employed. For players who can resist the temptation of microtransactions, NBA 2K24 offers a satisfying basketball simulation. However, the ever-present pressure to spend real money for a competitive edge remains a significant concern.
Grade: 3 out of 5
NBA 2K24 was reviewed on PlayStation 5 with a review copy provided by the publisher. The game launched on September 8 for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC platforms.
