Review: NBA 2k7
With NBA 2K7, it's easy to see 2K Sports and Visual Concepts have been hard at work to make this year's basketball season far superior than the last. Are the signature styles and updated game modes enough to make NBA 2K7 the sports game of the year? We think so!
2k Sports' Signature
PROTIP: Tap the X button rapidly to get the upper hand during tip-off.
EA's NBA Live series has always been spot-on with character models and shiny graphics, but when it comes down to sheer gameplay, the ball is in 2K's court. Whether posting up or diving for a loose ball (a new feature, by the way), each player carries their own weight and momentum from one animation to the next.
The controls couldn't be more intuitive for someone who has never played a basketball game before, and improvements have been made from last year. By using the right-analog stick, players now have precise control over how they shoot.
NBA 2K7 shines as its new Signature Style system captures the look and feel of each NBA star's technique. From Shaq's long and drawn out free throws to Iverson's speedy dribbling skills, the attitude is all there and you'll freak out over how well Visual Concepts was captured the essence of each star on the court.
More is Better?
NBA 2K7 has plenty of game modes to keep you entertained until next season. All of last year's game modes return and are teeming with updated rosters and stats. 24/7 mode has seen an overhaul for the better, and is now called 24/7: Next. Following an actual story line, you begin your quest to stardom as a no-name street baller looking for an in into the league in an attempt to rise to the top. 24/7: Next is fun, but there is room for improvement.
PROTIP: When playing a half-court game of street ball, don't forget to clear the ball behind the 3-point line.
The Association mode is on fire this year as you take over team training, drafting, and trading. In 2K7's Online mode, all the stat tracking, leaderboards, and matchmaking return to bring you and your friends even closer. Bring your 'A' game if you want to compete against the best.
NBA 2K7 may not look as good as EA's NBA Live 07, but the intuitive controls, silky-smooth animation, and fun gameplay makes NBA 2K7 the Xbox 360's basketball game of preference. It's easy to for newcomers to pick up, and Visual Concepts has worked hard to compete graphically, though it's just not quite there yet. In fact, if you're still playing on a standard-def television it is very difficult to read any fine print such as stats or player names before and after games, but this may not be a problem next season as HDTV's make their way mainstream.
PROTIP: Timeouts are a great chance to change plays, call subs, or check stats on your roster.
![Screen Update: Sudden Strike 3: Arms for Victory [PC]](/screens/111246/183768-1-1.jpg)
![Screen Update: SOCOM: Confrontation [PS3]](/screens/131225/183708-1-1.jpg)
![Screen Update: Top Spin 3 [Xbox 360]](/screens/140562/183748-1-1.jpg)
![Screen Update: X-Blades [PC]](/screens/141241/183731-1-1.jpg)
