Evaluating the best sports titles for any platform presents a unique challenge, especially with a passionate and diverse fan base. Each new release often represents a mix of progress and compromise. We acknowledge the subjective nature of this ranking from the outset. Our compilation of the finest basketball games for the PS4 is the result of comprehensive research and community input, reflecting a diverse array of perspectives. Exploring the realm of premier basketball games on the PS4, enthusiasts are treated to a heightened level of excitement and competition, while the Xbox delivers an immersive boxing game experience.
NBA 2K22
- Released in 2021 by 2K Sports and developed by Visual Concepts, NBA 2K22 is a dynamic basketball simulation game for the PS4, rooted in the world of the National Basketball Association (NBA);
- This game is the successor to NBA 2K21 and represents the 23rd installment in the celebrated NBA 2K series.
NBA 2K22 stands out in the franchise by featuring six different athletes on its covers for the first time. The standard and current-gen editions display Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks, while the special 75th Anniversary Edition includes icons Kareem Abdul-Jabbar of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dirk Nowitzki of the Mavericks, and Kevin Durant from the Brooklyn Nets. Additionally, the Exclusive WNBA 25th Anniversary Edition proudly features Candace Parker of the Chicago Sky, adding a new dimension to the series.
NBA 2K21
NBA 2K21, the latest addition to the renowned NBA 2K series, offers an immersive sports video gaming experience on the PS4. It stands as a major milestone in the series, providing a deep dive into the professional basketball world and its rich heritage. The game presents a comprehensive integration of all aspects of professional basketball, capturing the essence of the sport with the motto “Everything is Game.” NBA 2K21 introduces significant enhancements in gameplay and efficiency, alongside challenging and engaging online features, and a variety of rich and diverse game modes, elevating the overall experience.
NBA 2K20
NBA 2K20 for PS4 offers players the opportunity to engage in NBA-style games using either real-life or custom-created players and teams, adhering closely to official NBA rules and objectives. The game offers a variety of modes and customizable options to enhance the gaming experience. In MyLeague and MyGM Modes, players have the flexibility to create up to six expansion teams, enabling a league of up to 36 teams. Teams can also be relocated and rebranded according to the player’s preference. For those interested in team customization, NBA 2K20 allows inspiration to be drawn from the wide array of jerseys and team designs from the NBA community.
NBA 2K17
NBA 2K17 stands out as a notable entry in the NBA 2K series, offering a highly engaging basketball experience on the PS4. The game boasts precise and user-friendly controls, complemented by an AI that presents a worthy challenge to players. Strategic thinking is essential in matches, as relying on simple tactics like consistently passing to the best player for easy scores isn’t a viable long-term strategy. The Career mode in NBA 2K17 is particularly noteworthy, following a player’s journey to make a mark in the professional leagues. While the storyline might not be the most captivating, it adds a layer of progression and engagement to the game.
NBA 2K16
NBA 2K16 excels as a robust basketball simulation game, characterized by finely honed controls and a challenging AI that elevates the gameplay experience. This installment meets all the expectations of the NBA 2K series, with a gameplay structure that has been well-received, despite some issues related to blocking mechanics. The game reintroduces familiar modes, enhancing the experience of managing a team in modes like MyGM. One significant addition in NBA 2K16 is the revamped career mode, which offers a fresh and engaging aspect that is likely to captivate players’ attention.
NBA 2K15
NBA 2K15 for PS4 follows its predecessor’s success in the next-generation consoles, delivering refined and intuitive gameplay mechanics. This installment makes controlling the ball and creating space against opponents not only easier but also more rewarding for the player. While the improvements in gameplay mechanics are a highlight, NBA 2K15 also brings enhancements to various other game modes. These improvements add depth and variety to the game, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable basketball gaming experience for players.
NBA 2K14
NBA 2K14, a gem in the series, proved that video games could achieve remarkable visual fidelity. It remains a standout title in terms of graphics among current-generation basketball games. Upon its release, NBA 2K14 set a new standard with its astonishingly realistic visuals, from the lifelike facial expressions of players to the detailed renderings of coaches. The game’s visual appeal is undeniable, and even today, it would impress new players. Beyond its aesthetics, NBA 2K14 also excels in gameplay. Although there weren’t significant changes in gameplay mechanics from its predecessor, the game still delivers a solid and enjoyable basketball experience.
NBA Live 19
NBA Live 19 redefines the playing experience with its 1v1 Everywhere feature, incorporating Real Player Motion technology. This innovation grants players unprecedented control in every possession, altering the dynamics of the game and enabling complete domination over opponents. In the return of THE ONE, players can embark on a journey to basketball stardom, creating a team of superstars, legends, and cultural icons. NBA Live 19 invites players to compete globally in various modes like The Championship, The Street World Tour, and on your custom court in ONE COURT, where you set the rules and lineup. It’s a challenge to defend your home court and rise in the community rankings.
NBA Live 18
NBA Live 18 introduces a variation in the selection of basketball games for PS4. While there’s ongoing debate about the supremacy of the 2K vs. Live series, NBA Live 18 offers its unique charm. The game features intuitive controls and a reasonably challenging AI. Players will find familiar modes akin to those in the NBA 2K series, including exhibition games, a franchise mode, and a career mode. While these features may not significantly stand out compared to other titles, NBA Live 18 still presents a fun and engaging basketball experience.
NBA Live 16
NBA Live 16 brings fresh elements to the basketball gaming scene, notably through its enhanced customization options and the innovative Game Face app for iOS and Android. This feature allows players to engage in basketball both on and off the court with more personalization. The game marks the return of Live Run, a 5v5 multiplayer online mode last seen in NBA Live 10, and introduces Summer Circuit, a new cooperative gameplay option. These modes are set in iconic real-life locations, including outdoor and indoor courts in Venice Beach, Brooklyn, and Seattle. EA Sports emphasizes the competitive league vs. league events, where players participate in three quarters per match, focusing on scoring points and effective defense, adding a new layer of strategic gameplay.
NBA Playgrounds
- NBA Playgrounds uniquely blends the excitement of basketball with a roster that includes both current stars and legendary players from the NBA’s past;
- This game offers a variety of multiplayer modes, including both physical and online options;
- Notably, even the local multiplayer mode on PS4 requires an internet connection. Players engage in different modes to collect packs, which are used to build a diverse roster of players.
In the Tournament Mode, gamers face off in a series of four games, each presenting its own unique challenges. Successful completion of a tournament rewards players with a special court and a coveted gold pack. Additionally, there are online modes and exhibitions where players can strive to achieve bronze, silver, and gold status, further enhancing their gameplay experience. The game also allows players to acquire packs to level up in both offline and online play, adding depth to the overall experience.
NBA 2K Playgrounds 2
- NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 takes the exhilarating NBA arcade experience to new heights;
- Building on the success of its predecessor, this sequel expands the playground with an extensive lineup of current and former NBA stars;
- It boasts improved online matchmaking with dedicated local servers and a plethora of online modes, including exciting three-point contests and new playgrounds.
The game introduces custom match capabilities, allowing players to tailor their street basketball experience. With the addition of new Season and Playgrounds Tournament modes, along with various other engaging features, NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 invites players to “Ball Beyond Boundaries.” This game epitomizes the evolution of the NBA 2K franchise, which has become globally recognized as the official game of the NBA. Reflecting on the history of basketball games, it’s evident that the 2K series, once seen as secondary to rivals like NBA Live, has had a profound impact on the genre.
Conclusion
These games not only mark significant milestones in basketball gaming but also offer a nostalgic journey for long-time fans of the sport. Each game, from the visually stunning NBA 2K14 to the innovative and engaging NBA 2K Playgrounds 2, offers unique experiences, capturing the essence of basketball in different ways. Whether it’s the depth of gameplay, the realism of player motions, or the excitement of street basketball, these games represent the pinnacle of basketball gaming on the PS4. They not only serve as benchmarks in the evolution of sports gaming but also provide a nostalgic trip down memory lane for long-time fans of the sport. This collection is a testament to the continual advancement and enduring appeal of basketball video games, offering hours of thrilling enjoyment and a glimpse into the virtual courts where legends and aspiring stars alike make their mark.
