NBA 2K21

NBA 2K21 is one of the strongest iterations in the perennially popular basketball simulation franchise. As with previous titles, NBA 2K21 excels at providing an incredibly realistic and immersive NBA experience packed with different game modes catering to all types of basketball fans.

The game includes all the standard game modes one would expect like Play Now, MyTeam, MyCareer, and MyGM. The signature MyCareer mode returns, allowing you to create your own custom player and guide them through their NBA journey. I had a blast playing a few seasons in MyCareer, earning sponsorships, upgrading my players, and eventually leading my team to a championship victory.

Polished Gameplay Mechanics

On the court, NBA 2K21 plays fantastically well. The gameplay mechanics have been finely polished over the years, resulting in smooth, fluid player animations and responsive controls. Unlike FIFA which completely overhauls its gameplay every few years, NBA 2K21 wisely retains the same core mechanics while making subtle improvements.

Signature player movements and tendencies are accurately captured, making superstars like LeBron and Steph Curry immediately recognizable. The improved collision system also minimizes awkward clashes between players. Dribbling and shooting both feel great, especially when chaining together combos.

Presentation Remains Best-in-Class

No other sports franchise comes close to matching NBA 2K’s stellar presentation values. The graphics are phenomenal with highly detailed player models and animations. Special care has been taken to accurately capture signature mannerisms and shooting forms.

Replays also look fantastic, highlighting slick passes, ankle-breaking crossovers, and posterizing dunks from multiple broadcast camera angles. The three commentators are knowledgeable about league storylines and discuss relevant insights during gameplay. Atmospheric arena sounds also make it feel like you’re playing in front of a raucous playoff crowd.

Enjoyable Multiplayer Modes

Playing against human opponents is where NBA 2K21 truly shines thanks to its enjoyable multiplayer game modes. MyTeam is an addictive card-collecting mode that cleverly replicates the excitement of ripping open real-world basketball card packs.

Online play has been smoothed out considerably with better matchmaking and reduced latency issues. Winning a closely fought match by hitting a buzzer-beating three-pointer provided immense satisfaction. While there are microtransactions present, they don’t feel necessary to remain competitive.

When compared to other sports franchises, NBA 2K consistently sets the gold standard for simulation gameplay and presentation. Franchise mainstays like FIFA or Madden could learn a thing or two about NBA 2K’s polish and attention to detail.

Still, the prevalent microtransactions and some odd latency issues during online multiplayer hold back NBA 2K21's overall presentation from greatness.

Pros

• Super realistic gameplay and graphics
• Excellent variety of game modes
• Generally smooth online multiplayer performance

Cons

• MyCareer can feel grindy
• Commentary repeats itself frequently
• Aggressive monetization tactics