NBA 2K23 for PlayStation 5

NBA 2K23: Rewrite basketball history on PS5

NBA 2K23 is the latest installment in 2K Sports’ long-running basketball simulation franchise on PS5. Developed by Visual Concepts (WWE 2K23), the 2023 iteration in the NBA series blends a mix of exciting new features with revamped game mechanics aimed to please fans of the series. While at its core the game delivers the same great experience players are able to enjoy every year, it’s undeniable that the main attraction of NBA 2k23 is the return of fan-favorite Jordan Challenge. However, since NBA 2K21 and NBA 2K22, the franchise has gained a reputation for focusing more on microtransactions than actual gameplay, disappointing its loyal followers. Does 2K’s leading basketball title deliver on its promises or fail beyond all expectations? Let's find it out.

Gameplay: Old and new meet in a more realistic experience

NBA 2K23 follows the same successful game mechanics shown in the previous installments of the series. These can be experienced through its satisfying blend of realism and responsiveness, shown by the smooth and natural movements of the players and its heavily improved physics system. One of its most notable gameplay updates, however, is its reworked shot meters. These are much more strict than in previous games from the franchise, forcing players to do a near-perfect release to successfully score. That’s not all that’s new, you’ll also have to master its newly designed stamina bars.

The new stamina system in 2K23 works with three different adrenaline bars. These will deplete when you sprint or when doing explosive dribble moves. Far from being a handicap, these changes encourage players to be fair during online matches. Since players can’t over-dribble, they are forced to pass the ball thus encouraging real team-play. As a whole, while these gameplay changes result in a steeper learning curve for the average player, they also bring a much more realistic experience to the actual sport.

New modes and features on PS5

As expected in the franchise, NBA 2K23 offers a wide array of game modes where you’ll find the series’ mainstays in addition to new challenges. One of the most iconic ones, MyCareer, will let you once again create and customize your own basketball player guided through a premade story. This year’s narrative feels a bit lacking compared to previous titles, but that is easily balanced with all the changes made in the mode’s hub. Here you’ll find a vast array of activities and quests to restructure The City, as well as all kinds of events in the newly designed Arena. 

As we’ve already mentioned, 2K23 recovers one of the franchises’ most applauded modes: the Jordan Challenge. This feature will take you on a trip down memory lane, reliving all the greatest moments from the Greatest Of All Time himself: Michael Jordan. Starting in 1982, you’ll be able to play Jordan’s most important matches. To beat them, you’ll have three conditions to complete. These challenges aren’t only a treat to all His Airness fans, but will also grant you in-game rewards such as jerseys, calf sleeves, necklaces or even Michael Jordan’s coach card.

Another interesting mode is MyNBA. Here you’ll be able to relive iconic moments of NBA history and tweak them however you like. What if Kobe and Shaquille O’Neil never went in different ways while in the Lakers? Now you can find out. MyNBA offers 4 different eras to explore and rewrite. These are the Magic Johnson and Larry Bird era, the Michael Jordan era, the Kobe Bryant era and the modern one we’re in. One interesting feature of these modes is that they replicate the rosters of the day and will let you scout for players, such as Lebron James, who will become future stars. Also, you’ll be able to change the graphics of the game and give your gameplay a retro look to fit the era. As a whole, MyNBA is an amazing experience for sports aficionados.

Finally, Card-collector enthusiasts will be glad to know that MyTeam is back.This strategy game will once again let you assemble a roster of your favorite NBA players and build your dream lineup. The mode includes many competitive contests in both single and multiplayer and, as a new feature, you’ll be able to try your starters in a Triple Threat (3v3) against an A.I before making your pick.

Graphics: The best looking sports game ever released

The NBA 2K series is known to deliver the best graphics in sports gaming and 2K23 is no different. The game shines with its stunning lifelike player models as well as highly detailed environments. The players’ facial expressions and movements are simply amazing while the crowd and overall stadium atmosphere makes it look like a real NBA broadcast. The lighting also makes use of the PS5 capabilities to create a realistic experience through details down to surface reflectiveness. Overall, it’s one of the best (if not the best)  looking sports games out there.

The bad: Microtransactions everywhere

While NBA 2K23 is one of the best basketball simulators available so far, we can’t overlook its terrible in-game purchases. They are literally everywhere. While you can grind out your MyTeam points and tokens, you have to be extremely patient to be able to afford any item or be able to improve your players’ stats. The amount of in-game currency that can be legitimately earnt through MyCareer or MyTeam matches is minimal, taking a ridiculous amount of time to improve your character. For that reason, while not being mandatory, microtransactions feel completely forced on players. This ultimately makes 2K23 a title that could easily be defined as a pay-to-win business model..

A great game overshadowed by in-game purchases

NBA 2K23 is the greatest basketball simulator on PlayStation 5. While bringing the same great experience of its previous iterations, 2K23 manages to improve its gameplay in every single aspect. With a new shot and stamina system, better spacing and AI, as well as new exciting modes (and the Jordan Challenge returns!), the game is a dream come true to any basketball fan. However, its intrusive microtransactions are literally everywhere, making it hard to advance, get items or improve your player stats if you don’t have a fat wallet.