Sports games appear to have fallen into an oligarchy. Madden is the king of NFL games; MLB The Show is the leader of, well, MLB games. Now that the NBA Live series has resorted to a mobile-only release until at least next year, we’re left with NBA 2K17 as the sole console entry this year. Visual Concepts isn’t a company to rest on their laurels, but even so, have they improved upon a nicely-working formula this year, or perhaps meddled a bit too much with a good thing" Find out now in our review.
Presentation can make or break any sports game. Here, NBA 2K17 continues in the excellent tradition set by its predecessors. If you happen to pass by someone playing this game, you would swear they are watching a live game. It doesn’t matter if the current mode is an exhibition game, MyCAREER match, or a fantasy round — NBA 2K17 is the most authentic-sounding sports game released to date. Between an incredibly diverse and reactive audience, emotive coaches, and blaring sports arena sound systems, it really sounds like you’re watching a real game unfold before your eyes.
Your Ears Thank You
I can’t emphasize enough just how fantastically well done the audio work in NBA 2K17 is. There are three main commentators for most games, but also industry stalwarts such as Doris Burke who offer on-the-court analysis as the game progresses. The addition of Chris Webber and Brent Barry add more character to the game, and can surprise you with the insi...