Are you looking for the most exciting and captivating basketball video game ever? Or are you just looking for a basketball-themed game to keep you engaged? This article has precisely what you are looking for in a basketball game.
We cannot compare video games to playing basketball on a court, but it is the closest we can get to reality.
Thanks to improved graphics and simulation, video games today offer lifelike experiences that will make you feel like you are right there on the court playing with and against NBA superstars. Arcade-style basketball games should not be left out; they are simple to learn, engaging, and competitive.
This brings us to the question, which basketball game can be regarded as the best in the market? There are numerous basketball games in the market, both online and offline. Let’s look at the top five basketball games on our list.
NBA 2K20
Platform: Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Android, and Google Stadia.
Release Date: September 6, 2019
NBA 2K22 is currently the best basketball video game overall; it has almost everything needed, from graphics to gameplay, correct emblems, and lifelike programs.
This game is a masterpiece from the 2K franchise. It is a top-selling game for a reason. Released in September 2021, the game has different options and modes to keep players glued to their screen.
Players have the liberty to create new players and take them through an exciting journey in MyCareer and become an MVP or NBA champion.
Additionally, they can also choose to become GM and guide a team through a simulation of NBA in MyGM or MyLeague. You can also play online and compete with fellow players from around the world.
NBA 2K22 also gives users the option to build their teams from scratch in MyTeam with both current and former players at their disposal.
To crown it up, NBA 2K22 has outstanding graphics and fantastic gameplay. NBA 2K22 is the closest you can get to playing in the NBA right from the comfort of your home. The game also gives players the liberty to customize their experience.
With this game, you can bring your imagination to life. It has all you want in an NBA game. Its older versions like the 2K20 or 2K19 are also great options.
NBA Live 19
Platform: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
Release Date: September 7, 2018.
The next one on our list is the NBA Live 19. This game is an excellent alternative to NBA 2K20. If you are looking for something different from the 2K series, then this is what you should be looking for. They are similar in many ways.
However, there are some slight differences. One example is the unrivaled presentation in the NBA. Other aspects that NBA Live flawed 2K are the soundtrack, halftime show, and stats.
NBA Live also has different options and modes. Players can play online, create their player, create a dynasty in “The One,” and go on a journey through an in-depth and incredible career mode. The gameplay and its graphics look amazing and can, in many ways, be compared to NBA 2K20.
Without a doubt, this franchise is no longer as popular as it used to be and can’t be compared to 2K20.
Still, players looking for something different from what they are already used to can give this fame a try, and they won’t be disappointed by the presentation of the video game.
Also, with the controversies currently rocking NBA 2K20 in the “grind or pay” to succeed in MyTeam or MyCareer, you can get a breath of fresh air with NBA Live.
There’s a good reason why we keep comparing 2K to Live 19. First, Live 19 is the closest you can get to 2K20 in terms of graphics, gameplay, and modes. However, there are aspects of Live 19 that you’ll prefer over 2K20.
NBA Jam
Platform: Arcade, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, GameBoy
Release Date: 1993
What makes the game stand out is that it goes beyond just basketball.
People who don’t even like sport will find the game exciting. Put this game in front of a non-NBA fan who can’t even name three NBA teams, and he will get hooked.
The game may not give you the feeling of playing live basketball games like 2K20 and NBA live would, but it is still exciting and fun to play.
There are thirty feet in the air rise and turbo coloring of shoes. These features make it look like the players come from an entirely different world.
During the early days of NBA Jam, many people gave quarters in machines to enjoy this game back in the day. Every quarter spent was worth it, as it was fun playing against other players and computers.
What stands for this game is its competitiveness. When playing, there’s always one game you almost won, but the computer or your friend manages to get away with a full-court shot. It can be frustrating losing with just one point, but it is part of what makes the game unique. You can still play the game today and enjoy every bit of it, just like in the ’90s.
It might not be getting as much fanfare as it used to in the ’90s, but it cannot be entirely written off when it comes to basketball games. It’s been over two decades since its launch, yet the game remains one of the best, especially among diehard basketball gaming fans.
Want to learn about the history of basketball? Here are some of the best basketball documentaries of all time.
NBA 2K Playgrounds 2
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Microsoft Windows.
Release Date: October 16, 2018
Basketball games don’t have to be simulation games to be good. For instance, NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 is an arcade-style game that is 2v2, yet it is a fantastic game.
What makes the game more exciting is that it is fast-paced, at the same time, easy to play and master. You can still pick some of your NBA teams and players, but they will be capable of doing stunts ordinary humans can’t do. This is what makes it exciting. There are different courts to choose from and modes to enjoy.
The game’s modes include online mode, season mode, and more. There are many things you can do within the game to keep you glued all day long. It won’t get stale as there is lots of content to keep players hooked for long enough. Think of it as NBA Jam, but with better graphics.
An NBA Street game has to be on this list. NBA Street Volume 2 is one of the best basketball games ever made.
Its first was nice, but volume 2 is even better. It added about 25 street legends and 25 new dunks and tricks. Another notable addition that stands out is the Trick Point Challenge. It allows players to choose three players of all time and play with them.
The game is simple and easy to play, you can find your way around the keys and set up quickly, and in just a matter of minutes, you’ll be doing excellent skills. The gameplay progresses quickly; this makes it a good choice for people who like fast-paced games.
Street games are superfluous, and that’s what makes them amazing.
Conclusion: Best Basketball Video Games
From the list above, you’ll notice that it comprises both simulation and arcade-style games. This will give you the liberty to choose from one.
These games allow users to enjoy the beautiful game of basketball right from the comfort of their homes. The five basketball games above are engaging, fun, and competitive. The choice is yours.
Related: Best Basketball Arcade Game: Electronic and Indoor Fun
