Publisher 2K Sports has capitalized on the fandom around the "NBA 2K" series since it really took off back with "2K11." What started the
meteoric rise wasn't that flash but instead was the realistic gameplay
accompanied by the respect shown for the history of the league. Michael
Jordan became the centerpiece along with the introduction of classic
teams. The series first became popular with true basketball fanatics
before it started being tailored for the mainstream where it took on a
more online-connected focus and began being monetized through the sale
of an in-game currency and plastered with heavy product placement.
Both hardcore fans and the more casual crowd alike should find themselves pleased by "NBA 2K20," which is the best-playing edition of
the franchise ever. There is no shortage of ways to enjoy the game,
whether playing with your favorite NBA team, controlling a single
character through a career, facing competition online, building a
fantasy team, or controlling a franchise over multiple seasons.
Widely regarded as offering the best gameplay experience in the genre, the "2K" series at some point along the way became overly
technical to play. It's complicated and difficult but over time becomes
exceedingly rewarding. Those who stick with it appreciate that about the
game.
There is a sense that "2K20" is a little more forgiving. It still isn't a game that anyone could just pick up, play and instantly find
success, but it is trending in the right direction to becoming less
intimidating.
It's impressive simply to watch the AI execute an offense. Each team does so just like their real-life counterparts. It will take some time
to learn to do that same thing, but getting comfortable with the pick
and roll and running some basic plays is a good start for most.
Among notable improvements, there are now 27 different types of ball handlers, which adds some personality and eliminates the feeling of
uniformity. Left stick movements are more effective on their own as well
instead of having to combine with other controller inputs to make
things happen.
The biggest strategical change, however, has to do with the use of turbo, which is now more limited. Instead of turbo essentially being the
default movement, it is instead now necessary to use it more sparingly
and selectively. That results in various moves and blow-bys that are far
more effective and a better differentiation in players based on size
and speed. The only downside is that there are situations where being
out of turbo shouldn't mean the player can't reach top speed. They
should be able to hustle on fast breaks or in recovery situations
regardless.
There really hasn't been anything for "2K" in terms of gameplay that required drastic intervention. Instead, valuable incremental
improvements have been delivered that'll be appreciated by those who dig
deep and know how to utilize all the tools available.Read More
