Hands-On with NBA 2K10: Preview

By Andrew

Over the years, I’ve come to expect a lot from 2K Sports. Their games are always top-notch, ultra-realistic and super-connected to the actual sports the games emulate. So it was no surprise when I strolled into 2K’s offices this morning to find the most realistic looking video game I’ve ever seen: NBA 2K10. 

Building on the success of NBA 2K9, which is currently the #1 rated and #1 selling NBA video game on the market, NBA 2K10 includes all the features you know and love from last year’s release, with some added bonuses that are sure to keep the franchise on top, like new intuitive offensive controls, “My Player” mode and “NBA Today.”

“My Player” gives you an all-new basketball gaming experience by allowing you to fully customize your player in every way you could possibly imagine. You then play as only that player, from undrafted rookie on the Summer Circuit to the top of the NBA. I couldn’t believe how many customization options were available. It was actually somewhat overwhelming. But if you’re into tricking out your characters, then this is the mode for you.

Also, because you’re only playing as one player, rather than the whole team (as you do in “Franchise Mode”), you have to excel in all aspects of the game, from passing to covering the offense to hitting free throws – everything you do is graded and used to determine how quickly you move up in the ranks.

But it’s “NBA Today” that impressed me the most. By going online and connecting to 2K’s servers, “NBA Today” updates the game with all the most up-to-date, real-world match-ups, news and stats. That means if Lebron is injured in a game the night before, that will be reflected in the updates. Not only that, but they’ve recorded such a massive amount of commentary, its accuracy will blow your freakin’ mind.

If you want to get in on the NBA 2K10 action early, download a copy of the NBA 2K10: Draft Combine pre-release package from Xbox Live Arcade or the Playstation Network. This mini-game will allow you to build-up your player prior to the release of NBA 2K10, so when you buy the full game, you’ll already be ahead of the pack.

NBA 2K10 hits stores October 6, and will be available for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PS2, PSP and PC