NBA 2K21

NBA 2K21 continues the tradition of the most acclaimed basketball simulation with a sophisticated player movement system, finely detailed ball physics, and a broad range of game modes, from single-player career through club management to online matches and the collector mode MyTeam with cards of current and historical NBA players. The game emphasizes a realistic depiction of basketball duels, the individual style of NBA stars distinguished by unique movement animation, and team strategy requiring cooperation from AI-controlled teammates. The game also captures the small individual quirks of specific stars, from their characteristic dribbling to their signature shooting habits, which fans following the real NBA league will recognize.

On PS4 the title offers finely detailed player models, faithfully rendered arenas, and match atmosphere backed by commentary and a licensed soundtrack spanning a wide range of genres from hip-hop to electronic music selected for that season. The MyCareer career mode combines sports matches with story elements and a social space called Neighborhood, where players can move between various off-court activities, buy gear for their character, and meet other players online. The game also includes a thoroughly developed MyGM/MyLeague management mode for players who prefer strategically running an entire club or league.

Upon release, NBA 2K21 was received with more mixed reactions than previous series installments, partly due to criticism of microtransactions in the MyTeam and MyCareer modes, though the basketball core itself continued to be rated as the most sophisticated on the market. With this installment, Visual Concepts confirmed the series' dominant position in the basketball simulation genre despite the controversy surrounding content monetization. Today the game remains a reference point for basketball simulations and is also remembered as one of the last major titles of the PS4 generation.

Why play it: For basketball fans looking for the most sophisticated simulation on the market, though you should expect the criticized microtransactions in the MyTeam and MyCareer modes.