NBA 2K24 marks the latest installment in the long-standing NBA 2K series, a franchise that has consistently set the benchmark for basketball video games. On this occasion, the game aims to push the boundaries of realism and immersion, featuring enhanced graphics, lifelike player animations, and an array of new gameplay mechanics. With the game’s new proprietary ProPLAY tech, it’s definitely one of the most realistic and authentic basketball sims to grace the gaming catalog in recent years.

In this review, we focus on the current-gen version of NBA 2K24, available on platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. We delve into the game’s strengths, such as its improved on-court gameplay and immersive modes, while also discussing the challenges posed by its heavy reliance on microtransactions. If you’re interested, we’ve also explored the different editions of NBA2k24 in another article. Join us as we break down the pros and cons of NBA 2K24, offering our insights into whether this latest edition is worth your time and money.

On-Court Gameplay

• Realistic player movements with ProPLAY technology
• Enhanced and smoother animations
• Authentic basketball experience

NBA 2K24 excels in delivering a realistic basketball experience, primarily due to the introduction of ProPLAY technology. This innovation brings a new level of authenticity to player movements, making them more lifelike and true to real basketball dynamics. Each dribble, pass, and shot feels more natural and fluid, significantly enhancing the overall gameplay. The improved animations contribute to this sense of realism, ensuring that every interaction on the court mirrors real-life basketball. Additionally, with the inclusion of Crossplay, finding matches is faster than ever. These enhancements make the game more immersive, providing players with a genuine NBA experience that stands out in the sports gaming genre​.

MyCareer Mode

• Engaging and immersive storyline
• Extensive character customization
• Realistic career progression

MyCareer mode continues to be a standout feature in NBA 2K24, offering players a deeply engaging and immersive experience. This mode allows you to build your own character, known as MyPLAYER, and navigate the ups and downs of an NBA career. The storyline is well-crafted, pulling players into the journey of rising from a rookie to a superstar. Extensive customization options let players personalize their characters, making the experience unique and tailored to individual preferences. The career progression is designed to be realistic, reflecting the challenges and triumphs of a professional basketball career, which keeps players invested and motivated to achieve their in-game goals​​.

MyTeam Mode

• Variety of card packs and customization options
• Competitive online community
• Strategic team building

MyTeam mode remains a major draw for fans of NBA 2K24, offering a wide range of card packs that allow players to build and customize their dream teams. This mode features a robust online community, fostering a competitive environment where players can test their skills against others. The strategic elements of team building are particularly compelling, as players must carefully select and develop their roster to succeed in various challenges and tournaments. MyTeam’s depth and variety ensure that it remains an engaging and dynamic part of the game, appealing to both casual players and hardcore fans alike​​.

Challenges and Drawbacks

• Heavy reliance on microtransactions
• Lack of significant innovation in design
• Persistent online issues

While NBA 2K24 offers a solid gameplay experience, several significant drawbacks hinder its overall appeal. The game’s heavy reliance on microtransactions is a major issue, as it encourages players to spend real money on virtual currency and card packs, which can be frustrating and feel like a grind. This monetization strategy can detract from the enjoyment of the game, particularly for those who prefer to progress through skill and effort alone.

Additionally, despite the improvements in gameplay, some aspects of the game, such as the menu system and overall design, feel like a rehash of previous years. This lack of significant innovation can make the game seem stale and repetitive to long-time fans. However, the most recent update for NBA2k24 is aiming to improve other aspects of the gameplay, and these improvements will only continue to make the game better in the long run.

Lastly, the online multiplayer mode is still plagued by lag and disconnections, which can be frustrating and ruin the experience for players. These persistent issues highlight the need for better online infrastructure to support a smoother and more reliable multiplayer experience​​.

Final Thoughts

NBA 2K24 delivers an impressive on-court experience with its realistic player movements and immersive modes like MyCareer and MyTeam. However, the game’s heavy reliance on microtransactions and lack of innovation in certain areas hold it back from being truly great. The outdated design elements and persistent online issues further detract from the overall experience.

For die-hard NBA 2K fans, the improved gameplay and immersive modes may still provide enough enjoyment to justify the purchase. However, new players might find it challenging to overlook the game’s monetization strategies and online problems. Overall, while NBA 2K24 has its highlights, these drawbacks prevent it from reaching its full potential.

• Recommended For:

Players who are long-time fans of the NBA 2K series and enjoy in-depth gameplay, customization options, and immersive modes like MyCareer and MyTeam. Those who don’t mind spending extra on microtransactions to enhance their gaming experience.

• Not Recommended For:

Players who are new to the series or prefer to avoid games with heavy microtransactions. Those who expect significant innovation and improvements over previous entries may find NBA 2K24 lacking and might be better off sticking to earlier versions or waiting for a sale.

In conclusion, NBA 2K24 continues the tradition of delivering high-quality basketball simulation but stumbles with its monetization and online issues. While it offers plenty of depth and realism on the court, the game’s other drawbacks might make it a mixed bag for some players. Consider your priorities and preferences before deciding whether to dive into this year’s edition.