NBA 2K16

So, there you have it, if you like basketball and the NBA, you’ll love NBA 2K16, available for PS4, Xbox One and PC. This is, truly, a memorable experience for sports games and a welcomed step forward towards the realm of realistic gameplay, realistic graphics and game depth. The game is good, really good, and is something other games could aim to become, at least, in order to be considered as a serious option.

In 2K16 Visual Concepts proves once again that they’ve still got their fans in mind, adding new features and modes, re-introducing old favorites, and sharpening both the visuals, presentation, and gameplay to near perfection.

NBA 2K16 is one of the most complete packages I’ve ever seen. Developer Visual Concepts continues to raise the sports simulation bar by completely retooling its silky-smooth gameplay, adding brand-new physics systems, and refining its traditional game modes. Not all of the changes work as well as others, most notably the Spike Lee-themed MyCareer mode, but it doesn’t take away from the impressive overall package.

NBA 2K16 brings another year of championship quality basketball to the console and PC.

Letting a championship slip out of your grasp can be a harrowing experience for a franchise. Some teams never get over the hump, fading back into the pack never to emerge as a contender again. Others use the disappointment as motivation to improve and prepare for a second run. Visual Concepts found itself in this position after server woes sullied the launch of the otherwise impressive NBA 2K15. Using the offseason to retool, the series has emerged with its best effort in years.

Not exactly a massive Air Jordan-style leap over NBA 2K15, this year's game is nonetheless a substantial enough evolution to warrant a closer look. MyCareer's Spike Lee Joint isn't as groundbreaking as it thinks it is, but proves engaging enough for a few hours. As ever though, NBA 2K16's vast number of modes and options, as well as its unparalleled and authentic on-court experience makes it a basketball game that continues to stand tall.

Sports do not build character. They reveal it.

Basketball has never looked, or felt, so good to play.

NBA 2K16 attempts something novel - a full sports narrative by Spike Lee - but is crushed by server failures and lack of development.

If you’re a basketball fan, then NBA 2K16 is definitely worth picking up. It has all the experiences you would want in a basketball game, and is easily one of the more entertaining sports games to pick up. However, the Livin Da Dream story from Spike Lee replacing a key part of MyCareer feels like a misstep, and I’d much rather have the full rookie season experience to hone my player’s skills. Overall though NBA 2K16 is a solid game that has great gameplay, and fantastic presentation.