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Game software with advanced graphics and multiple modes for realistic basketball simulation

Game software with advanced graphics and multiple modes for realistic basketball simulation

Vote: (196 votes)

Program license: Paid

Developer: 2K Games

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(196 votes)

Paid

Developer

2K Games

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • The upgrades to the Artificial Intelligence of the game feel very significant, requiring players to think harder before trying to score.
  • Graphics are improved and look more realistic than ever. Indeed, the game's realism is unparalleled.
  • Like past versions, the game is fully licensed by the NBA and NBPA, meaning that you can play with all of the actual players and teams.
  • The almost overwhelming ways to play and manage ensure that players of all ability levels will be able to find a fun way to play.

Cons

  • The revamped control system caused some confusion among long-time players.
  • Microtransactions are present within the game.

NBA 2K16 was the 2016 version of the popular basketball franchise. Like the various versions that came before it, this one came with a slew of new graphics, innovations, and updates. The game was heavily praised by critics and sold extremely well.

Despite its age, the game plays exceptionally well and offers a true-to-life version of basketball. One of the most notable upgrades to this game was its Artificial Intelligence. The game's AI was upgraded to stop many standard offensive tactics from working. As a result, players had to think more tactically. Calling actual plays as opposed to simply shooting fast became a necessity in order to win.

Other aspects of the gameplay contain similar upgrades. Artificial Intelligence will learn your favorite plans and tactics and upgrade accordingly. This means that you cannot just call the same players over and over again. As a result, you may wind up spending more time in the game's various practice options than you are used to. It's time well spent, as it gives you a chance to explore NBA 2K16's various other features and subsystems that you may have missed otherwise.

Like all new games in this series, the graphics are improved, and this was noted by critics as one of the game's greatest strengths. Players all look extremely true to life and their statistics and physical attributes are dead-on accurate. Furthermore, players have different animations that reflect their real-life play style, leading to a more immersive and realistic experience.

One of the rare criticisms of this game was levied by some who didn't like the new controls system. Some praised it, while others found the changes unnecessary. Regardless, like any major game these days, players can change the controls to have them match whatever they are most comfortable with, including previous versions. Indeed, the entire game is highly customizable. Players can change the controls, camera angles, sound levels, and more.

Of course, NBA 2K16 offers a variety of ways to play and create. You can create your own player and customize every aspect of their history, statistics, appearance, and more. Indeed, designers can now add over 1,500 tattoos to the players of their choice.

What is simply astounding about NBA 2K16 is the various ways to play. Online play is back, of course, and the system by which players can be promoted saw major upgrades. Online transactions do come into play here, giving rise to the popular criticism that people who make purchases are, in fact, paying to win. Various other options include MyGM, MyTeam, and MyLeague, all of which allow you different management options. MyTeam allows you to collect cards and other bonuses as you play and win. This allows you to create your ultimate team, and success is rewarded: The more and the better you play, the higher your chances are of creating a truly unstoppable team.

Additionally, already popular modes saw major upgrades. Classic teams are back, of course, with an additional twelve teams to play with. EuroLeague teams return as well, giving players the option of playing with 25 different teams from around the rest of the world.

The game was ultimately released on all major video game consoles, for Windows and for iOS and Android. Used versions can be purchased off of the internet for as little as $2.

Pros

  • The upgrades to the Artificial Intelligence of the game feel very significant, requiring players to think harder before trying to score.
  • Graphics are improved and look more realistic than ever. Indeed, the game's realism is unparalleled.
  • Like past versions, the game is fully licensed by the NBA and NBPA, meaning that you can play with all of the actual players and teams.
  • The almost overwhelming ways to play and manage ensure that players of all ability levels will be able to find a fun way to play.

Cons

  • The revamped control system caused some confusion among long-time players.
  • Microtransactions are present within the game.