Difference between revisions of "NBA 2k (Video Game Series)"

Revision as of 05:09, 11 February 2023

[ Cover of NBA 2k23 featuring Devin Booker]

Genre	Sports
Gamming Style	Single-player, Multiplayer
Platform	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Apple Arcade, Microsoft Windows
Release Date	September 9, 2022 (NBA2K23)
Developer	Visual Concepts
Publisher	2K Sports
Website	https://nba.2k.com/2k23/

NBA 2K is a basketball video game series based on the National Basketball Association (NBA), developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Sports. NBA 2k23 is the 24th installment in the NBA 2K franchise and is the successor to NBA 2K22. The game was released on September 9th, 2022 for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows. The NBA 2K23 Arcade Edition was released on Apple Arcade on October 18, 2022.

History

The NBA 2K series is a popular basketball simulation video game franchise developed and published by Visual Concepts and 2K Sports. The franchise was first launched in 1999 and has since become one of the most successful and recognizable sports video game franchises of all time.

The original NBA 2K was released in 1999 for the Sega Dreamcast, and it quickly became one of the most popular sports video games of its time, thanks to its realistic graphics and gameplay. Over the years, the franchise has continued to evolve, incorporating new features and improved graphics, and it has been released on a wide variety of platforms, including the PlayStation 2, Xbox, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. ^[1]

One of the key features of the NBA 2K series has always been its focus on realism and attention to detail. The games have always been praised for their lifelike player movements, realistic courts, and accurate representation of the rules and strategies of the sport. In addition, the franchise has also been known for its deep and engaging career mode, where players can create their own players and guide them through their careers, as well as its robust online multiplayer component, which has allowed players to compete against each other from all over the world.

Another hallmark of the NBA 2K series has been its partnerships with the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). The franchise has always had a strong relationship with the NBA and NBPA, which has allowed it to incorporate real-life player likenesses, accurate team rosters, and other officially licensed content into the games. ^[2]

The NBA 2K series has been well received by both fans and critics, and it has sold millions of copies worldwide. In addition, the franchise has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including multiple awards for "Best Sports Game" and "Best Simulation Game". This series is a major player in the sports video game genre, and its influence on the industry is undeniable. With its focus on realism, attention to detail, and partnerships with the NBA and NBPA, the franchise has set a high bar for other sports video games to follow, and it continues to be one of the most popular and beloved sports video game franchises of all time.

Cover Athletes

Game Modes

Jordan Challenge

The Jordan Challenge mode is a popular game mode in the NBA 2K series that allows players to relive some of the greatest moments in the career of basketball legend Michael Jordan. The mode was first introduced in NBA 2K11 and has since become a staple of the franchise.

In NBA 2K11, the Jordan Challenge mode tasked players with recreating 10 of Jordan's most memorable performances, including his 63-point game against the Boston Celtics in 1986 and his buzzer-beater to win the 1998 NBA Finals. The mode was praised for its accuracy and attention to detail, with players having to match Jordan's stats from each game in order to progress.

In NBA 2K23, the Jordan Challenge mode has been updated and expanded, with even more of Jordan's greatest moments available for players to relive. The mode now features 20 of Jordan's most memorable performances, including his 1992 "Dream Team" performance in the Summer Olympics and his 55-point game against the New York Knicks in 1995. The mode also features improved graphics and more accurate representations of the arenas and uniforms from each game. ^[4]

The Jordan Challenge mode has become a fan favorite in the NBA 2K series, and it continues to be one of the most popular game modes in the franchise. With its combination of nostalgia and challenging gameplay, the mode has helped cement the NBA 2K series as one of the most comprehensive and immersive sports video games on the market.

Seasons

The Season Pass in NBA 2K23's MyCareer mode is a paid subscription service that offers players additional content and rewards throughout the virtual NBA season. With the Season Pass, players gain access to a variety of exclusive in-game items, such as clothing, shoes, and accessories, as well as exclusive events, challenges, and storylines.

The rewards in the NBA 2K23 MyCareer Season Pass are designed to enhance the player's experience and provide additional incentives to play and progress through the virtual NBA season. Some of the rewards include unique gear and attire, exclusive events and challenges, and bonus in-game currency. The Season Pass also offers a variety of bonus content and storylines that are not available to players without the pass. ^[5]

The Season Pass can be purchased as a standalone option or as part of a larger bundle, and it is available for purchase through the in-game store or through external retailers. The Season Pass typically runs for the length of a virtual NBA season and offers new content and rewards on a regular basis.

MyTeam

MyTeam is a popular game mode in the NBA 2K series that allows players to build and manage their own team of NBA players. The mode has been a staple of the franchise for many years, and it has been updated and expanded in each new iteration of the game.

In NBA 2K23, MyTeam continues to build on its legacy as one of the most comprehensive and engaging team-building modes in sports video games. Players can collect virtual trading cards representing real-life NBA players, and use those cards to assemble their own team. Players can also earn virtual currency to purchase new cards and upgrade their team, and participate in various challenges and events to earn rewards and climb the leaderboards. ^[6]

MyTeam also features robust online multiplayer components, allowing players to compete against each other from all over the world. Players can participate in head-to-head matches, tournaments, and other events, and they can also join or create their own online leagues with friends.

The depth and customization options in MyTeam make it one of the most popular game modes in the NBA 2K series, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of the franchise. Whether players are building a team of all-time greats, collecting their favorite players, or competing against others online, MyTeam offers endless hours of fun and excitement.

MyCareer

MyCareer is a single-player mode in the NBA 2K series that allows players to create and control their own custom basketball player. The mode has become one of the most popular and iconic features of the franchise, and it has been a staple of the series since its introduction.

In NBA 2K23, MyCareer continues to evolve and offer an immersive and engaging experience for players. Players create their own custom players, choosing their appearance, position, and attributes, and then guiding them through their basketball career. Players earn virtual currency for good performance on the court, which they can use to upgrade their player's attributes and skills. They also participate in various games and events, such as summer leagues and all-star games, to build their reputation and become a star in the league.

MyCareer also features a rich and dynamic story mode, where players interact with other NBA players and navigate the ups and downs of life as professional basketball players. Players can make choices that affect their player's careers, relationships, and reputations, and they can also explore the virtual world of the NBA and interact with various characters and storylines.

The combination of career progression, immersive storytelling, and deep customization options make MyCareer one of the most popular and well-regarded modes in the NBA 2K series. Whether players are building their own legacy, living out their dreams of playing in the NBA, or just having fun competing against others, MyCareer continues to be a fan favorite in the franchise.

City & Neighborhood

n NBA 2K23, the City and Neighborhood are central components of the game's MyCareer mode. The City is a virtual recreation of a bustling urban center, where players can explore, socialize, and participate in various activities. The Neighborhood serves as the hub for MyCareer, and it's where players can interact with other players, upgrade their players, and participate in various games and events.

The City is a vast and detailed environment, filled with various landmarks, shops, courts, and other locations to visit. Players can explore the City and interact with other players in real time, and they can participate in various streetball games and events to earn rewards and build their reputation. The City is also home to the MyCareer story mode, where players can interact with other NBA players and navigate the ups and downs of life as a professional basketball player.

The Neighborhood is the central hub for MyCareer, where players can access all the game's features and modes. Players can upgrade their player, purchase new gear and equipment, and participate in various games and events. They can also socialize with other players, join online leagues and tournaments, and compete in head-to-head matches. The Neighborhood is a dynamic and ever-changing environment, with new events, challenges, and activities added regularly to keep players engaged.

MyNBA/MyWNBA

MyNBA and MyWNBA are card-based collectible game modes in NBA 2K23 that allow players to collect, trade, and play with virtual cards representing real-life NBA and WNBA players, respectively. These modes offer players a fun and engaging way to experience the excitement of basketball, and they provide a wealth of customization options to create unique and personalized teams.

In MyNBA, players can collect virtual trading cards representing NBA players, and use those cards to assemble their own teams. They can also participate in various challenges, events, and tournaments to earn rewards and climb the leaderboards. MyNBA also features robust online multiplayer components, allowing players to compete against each other from all over the world.

MyWNBA works in much the same way, but with virtual trading cards representing WNBA players. Players can collect these cards, build their own teams, and participate in various events and challenges. MyWNBA offers fans of women's basketball an exciting and engaging way to experience the excitement and athleticism of the WNBA.

MyGM & MyLEAGUE

MyGM and MyLeague are two modes in NBA 2K23 that allow players to take control of their own virtual NBA franchise. These modes offer a deep and immersive experience for players who are interested in managing and building a successful basketball team, and they provide a wealth of customization options to create unique and personalized franchises.

In MyGM, players take on the role of the General Manager of their chosen NBA team. They are responsible for managing the team's finances, making personnel decisions, setting roster roles and rotations, and guiding the team to success on and off the court. MyGM also features a story mode, where players interact with other NBA executives, players, and coaches and navigate the challenges and opportunities of running a professional basketball team.

MyLeague is similar to MyGM, but it takes a more simulation-focused approach. In MyLeague, players have control over every aspect of their virtual NBA, including the teams, players, coaches, and the league itself. They can customize the league structure, draft rules, and player salaries, and they can also participate in various events and challenges to build their reputation and guide their team to success.^[7]

Ethical Concerns

Take-Two Lawsuit

Whilst playing NBA2K22, a fan got fed up with the game almost forcing users to purchase Virtual Currency (VC), as players don't get enough as they play games. The history of video games and microtransactions is a storied one, and the NBA 2K series is yet another example of how customers can be exploited for even more money. The lawsuit was filed on January 11, 2022, and states that while 2K players can earn VC through normal gameplay, it is difficult and the amount of VC earned is often inconsistent and negligible.^[8] It is never enough to upgrade your player to a high level, and often forces players to purchase VC through microtransactions just to keep up with the competition. The packs in MyTeam mode were also mentioned as they allegedly lure players into spending more money on the unlikely event that they get their desired item. The plaintiff is seeking relief in excess of $5 million as well as the cost of legal fees as the result of the unethical use of microtransactions. ^[9]

References

1. ↑ John. (2022, December 6). The history of NBA 2K: Culture of gaming. Culture of Gaming. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://cultureofgaming.com/the-history-of-nba-2k/
2. ↑ NBA. (2019, January 15). NBA, NBPA and 2K announce longterm partnership expansion - nba.com: NBA Communications. NBA.com. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://pr.nba.com/nba-nbpa-and-2k-announce-longterm-partnership-expansion/
3. ↑ Campbell, K. (2023, January 24). Every NBA 2K cover star since 1999. USA Today. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nba-2k-cover-athletes
4. ↑ Delaney, M. (2022, September 8). NBA 2K23 Jordan Challenge - all games, rewards, and challenges. GameSpot. Retrieved February 11, 2023, from https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k23-jordan-challenge-games-rewards-challenges/1100-6506359/
5. ↑ Season 4. NBA 2K23 Season 4 Launch | Courtside Report 2K23. (2023, February 3). Retrieved February 11, 2023, from https://nba.2k.com/2k23/courtside-report/season-4-launch/
6. ↑ Feyrer, A. (2022, September 23). NBA 2K23: Beginner's Guide to MyTeam. TheGamer. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.thegamer.com/nba-2k23-myteam-beginners-tips-tricks-explained-guide/#:~:text=This%20mode%20is%20a%20classic,prizes%20to%20improve%20your%20team.
7. ↑ Colleen. (2023). [NBA 2K23] game mode information – 2K support. 2k Support. Retrieved January 30, 2023, from https://support.2k.com/hc/en-us/articles/9138667493651--NBA-2K23-GAME-MODE-INFORMATION
8. ↑ Rizzi, C. (2022, February 28). Take-two facing class action over the sale of NBA 2K loot boxes to minors. ClassAction.org. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://www.classaction.org/news/take-two-interactive-facing-class-action-over-sale-of-nba-2k-loot-boxes-to-minors
9. ↑ Reid, R. (2022, March 8). $5m lawsuit filed against Take-Two Interactive over NBA 2K microtransactions. Game Rant. Retrieved February 2, 2023, from https://gamerant.com/lawsuit-take-two-interactive-nba-2k-microtransactions/