NBA 2K21 has launched for the last time on the current generation.
As we celebrate 2K Day, we can also check out a game that has made a name for itself as one of the best sports sims out there over the years. This version, much like Madden 21, the focus wasn’t really about tweaking what people have called a great franchise mode, but rather the other ways to play.
What NBA 2K21 does offer is a tweaked gameplay model that the developers say will focus on realism even more than usual. Using mechanics tied to an advanced pro stick, players will have even better control of where a shot goes from anywhere on the court.
While the franchise mode is a bit of an afterthought this time around, the developers did say they put some new focus on the My Career mode. Once again like Madden, NBA 2K21 will allow you to first go play at one of 10 officially licensed college basketball teams before you make your way to the pros.
Neighborhoods, a feature that was a surprise hit in last year’s iteration is back and it’s bringing 1v1s, 3v3s and 5v5s to the beach. There’s a new locale for the mode this year and you’ll be able to see you players soak in the sun as they rain down shots.
There’s more than a few ways where you can relive the past glory of professional basketball as well.
First, there’s the ability to play with the USA Basketball team back when it was the juggernaut of the Olympics. There’s also the ability to play with the greats in the sport in NBA 2K21 with MyTeam.
Speaking of the greats of the game, Kobe Bryant is included in the game several different ways. That includes the Mamba edition of the title. Users who purchase this version of the title get the added bonus of getting the game for free on the Xbox Series X or the PS5 when those consoles are available. All others will have to pay a bit extra in order to upgrade to the next gen consoles.
NBA 2K21 is out now for the Xbox One, the PS4, PC, and Google Stadia.