Let’s put our cards on the table before we start.
I am not a big NBA 2K player. I’ve reviewed a few of these games before, and I’ve played basketball quite a number of times, so I am aware of how the game – and rules – work. But if you’re after expert advice about NBA and all its nooks and crannies, then maybe look elsewhere.
But if you are after a review from someone who is curious about NBA 2K25, wanting to give it a go but feeling a bit intimidated… then look no further. Just note, there are so many options in NBA 2K25 that it can be overwhelming, but underneath all the razzmatazz is an extremely solid sports sim game.
There are so many modes to choose from, and at the beginning, it can feel quite daunting. But I would advise, if you’re new or just haven’t played in a while, to start with Learn 2K. It gives you all the tutorials and all the new moves to learn, from the basics to the advanced modes. It’s very clear to use and helped me a lot in the beginning.
I started NBA 2K25, and continued there for most of the review, in MyCAREER mode, which I always seem to enjoy. Here you get to choose your own path and player to start your career with, and it integrates lots of other modes into it. You get to create your playstyle for the character and can even scan your own face into it. Once in the game, you can launch straight into your NBA career at the club of your choosing, or you go back in time and see how you got there by replaying high school games. You also get a story of your character and their journey and relationship to others. It’s all very good indeed.
When in the NBA, you are not only playing the game but dealing with training, social media, doing interviews, etc. I like the career mode, and it feels more engaging and even more impressive than ever this year. You can also seamlessly go into The City mode from there, which is the MMO big open world that has gotten a lot better than the last time I played the game. Here you’ll find daily and weekly challenges and meet people to play on city courts and, of course, shop for nice things.
The microtransactions are strong here, with battle passes and all sorts. But you don’t have to get involved in any of this. The temptation is there, of course, and for younger gamers, that can be tricky.
The gameplay found in NBA 2K25 has been tweaked and polished for this new version. It feels like playing basketball to these uneducated eyes. There are new dribbling mechanics that elevate a new physics system based on real footage… or something very technical like that. Real-life jump shots, hoops, and celebrations have also been plundered from the real world. There are now two different shooting options as well – the one from last year, when you have to get in the ‘green’ bar, that some people hated. But now there’s a much easier and more forgiving shooting mode, which is perfect for me. Whatever, NBA 2K25 plays brilliantly; exciting and tense throughout.
The other modes in the setup are the brilliant NBA Eras mode, that lets you play games through the last 40 years or so. Jordan, Bird, and Kobe feature different presentations for the different eras in terms of visual style. And then we have MyTEAM, which is the EA FC Ultimate Team of NBA 2K, as players are tempted by the lure of packs and creating fantasy teams from scratch; if that’s your thing, go ahead…carefully.
WNBA is featured here as well, and in career mode. Playing online and taking in 2K TV, which is an amazing channel of knowledge, are also options.
Visually, NBA 2K25 is absolutely stunning, with superb stadiums and life-like presentations of all the courts on offer. The models of the players, the lighting, and just the overall visual menu and design are fantastic. In between timeouts and quarters, there are shows on the court, from cheerleaders to acrobatics and even dance cams in the audience. My favourite moment is coming out as the player from the tunnel into the packed stadium. It’s incredible every time.
The audio is a top-notch affair, from the vigorous and robust soundtrack to the squeak and thump of every on-court action. But it is the noise from the crowds and stadium that blows your socks off every time you play. Then on top of that is the commentary team, and there is even a halftime show in the studio that is funny, but also feels authentic.
Let it be known – I am not an NBA 2K specialist. I am not an avid follower of the NBA and all its trials and tribulations. If you want a detailed review from someone in that category, then look elsewhere. But I am a gamer, and NBA 2K25 seems to have improved in terms of the gameplay and the modes from those of previous. The presentation, gameplay, and sheer number options on offer make NBA 2K25 an amazing package; a brilliant sports game. Yes, the ghost of the microtransactions is still haunting the place, but close your eyes and ignore it, and you will have a great time.
So NBA 2K25, thanks for having me back.
Get Your Hoops Fix Early: NBA 2K25 Now Available – https://www.thexboxhub.com/get-your-hoops-fix-early-nba-2k25-now-available/
Buy NBA 2K25 on Xbox – https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/nba-2k25-standard-edition/9PL2XQ4GF10R/0010
