NBA 2K13

NBA 2K13 was a game that I was equal parts excited and nervous about at the same time. The previous two were based around the legend that is Michael Jordan so I was left wondering just how the heck they could top that? Well, they actually did top that and to this day this remains one of the best games in the entire series. They had the magic dust with this game as they nailed pretty much every aspect of it. One “fun” bit of trivia about this game is that it was actually a launch title for the Nintendo Wii U.

The Trick Stick

The first thing I want to talk about with NBA 2K13 is the new way the right stick is used. Like in previous year's games, you have to use the right stick in order to shoot. This year, you have to hold down the right trigger to do so. If you move the right stick without pressing the right trigger, it allows you to pull off fancy moves like crossovers and behind the back dribbles.

It may not sound like much, but this control scheme feels fantastic and very intuitive, and easy to figure out. While this series is still all about realism I feel that this control scheme makes the game much more fun to play.

Tonight’s Game Live From Madison Square Garden!

The NBA 2K series is known for having an amazing presentation and NBA 2K13 is no different. The game offers you an amazing TV-style presentation that of course, has been vastly surpassed by the games that followed it. However, this game still looks pretty damn good in my opinion with many of the character's models looking great as well as the guys at courtside and in the studio.

H To The Izzo

Ok, so the Michael Jordan branding was gone, but NBA 2K13 added hip-hop legend, Jay-Z, into the mix. He served as a bit of a producer for the game and picked the soundtrack which is awesome by the way. It is also said that it was his idea to have the US Dream Team in the game, if that is true, that is a great move by him. As well as having a fantastic soundtrack, I also love the sounds that you hear in the arena. From the squeaking of the shoes to the fans to the people doing the play by play. At the time this was released I do not think there was a better sports game when it came to the presentation.

Going For The Championship

While NBA 2K13 does allow you to take a player from a humble rookie all the way to NBA superstardom. That is not really what I play these games for. Although, even though there is virtual currency at play here, I feel that this was one of the last games to not try and constantly have its hand in your pocket to make your My Player better. I am all about taking a team to the top. I grew up idolizing two players, Michael Jordan and Penny Hardaway. So, I always have a season mode where I play as the Bulls and one where I play as the Magic as I try to take them all the way to the top.

Pros:

• This game is very realistic, but also a lot of fun to play
• It is always a good time taking your favorite team to the top!
• The presentation is great
• The Jay-Z selected soundtrack is awesome

Cons:

• The series did kind of peak here if you ask me
• My Player still feels like a bit of a grind