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NBA 2K18

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of NBA 2K18
Item: NBA 2K18
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2017

GenresAction, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, Sports, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 14, 2017

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch

Developer2K Games

Overview

The highest rated annual sports title of this generation returns with NBA 2K18, featuring unparalleled authenticity and improvements on the court.

Elsewhere

6.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

85%

Negative (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of NBA 2K18 are varied. Some critics, such as Xbox Achievements and Hardcore Gamer, find the story enjoyable and engaging. They appreciate the rags-to-riches narrative in the MyCareer mode, which follows the journey of the player's created character from obscurity to playing in the NBA. These critics mention that the story is simple, humorous, and captures the scrappy underdog theme well. Additionally, they find the cast of characters, although sometimes cheesy, to be entertaining and not boring. On the other hand, several critics have negative opinions about the story in NBA 2K18. Sporting News and God is a Geek criticize the MyCareer story for being unbelievable, insufferable, and poorly acted. They mention that the characters are annoying and the writing lacks depth and nuance. Nintendo Enthusiast and Gaming Age express their dislike for story modes in sports games and find the MyCareer storyline in NBA 2K18 to be bland, disappointing, and lacking plot. USgamer criticizes the story-driven GM mode for having muppet-like character models and text-driven dialogue, which detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics, like Xbox Achievements and Hardcore Gamer, appreciate the story and find it enjoyable, others, such as Sporting News and God is a Geek, have strong negative opinions about it. The positive aspects of the story include the rags-to-riches narrative, simple and humorous tone, and entertaining cast of characters. However, the negative aspects mentioned by various critics include unbelievable and insufferable elements, poor acting, lacklustre writing, and unlikable characters. It is evident that the story in NBA 2K18's MyCareer mode has received a mixed reception, with some critics finding it engaging and others finding it lacking in quality and depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on NBA 2K18's story. Some like the rags-to-riches narrative and entertaining characters, while others criticize it for being unbelievable and poorly acted. Positive aspects include humor and underdog themes, but negatives include lackluster writing and unlikable characters. Overall, opinions vary with some finding it engaging and others disappointed in the quality and depth.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The overall sentiment towards the gameplay of NBA 2K18 is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of critics praising its improvements and realistic feel. Many critics highlight the satisfying controls and the requirement of basketball IQ to succeed, as mentioned by GameSpot and reiterated by other reviewers such as XboxAddict. The gameplay is described as user-friendly, fast-paced, and polished, with subtle changes pushing it forward from the previous year, as noted by New York Daily News. The improvements in movement and interactions, making the gameplay feel more organic and realistic, are also commended by Sporting News. Trusted Reviews mentions that NBA 2K18 replicates the sport of basketball within a video game, offering a free-flowing experience. The revised shot meter and feedback system are also mentioned as positive aspects that enhance the gameplay. While the overall sentiment is positive, there are a few minor criticisms mentioned by some critics. Critical Hit states that the gameplay requires serious work to master, suggesting a steep learning curve. TheSixthAxis mentions that the shot rating system seems off, indicating a potential inconsistency in the shooting mechanics. However, these negative points are outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. In conclusion, the gameplay of NBA 2K18 is highly praised by critics, with the majority considering it to be very good. The positive aspects highlighted include satisfying controls, realistic movement, improved interactions, and a free-flowing experience. The gameplay is described as polished, enjoyable, and authentic, with each player feeling unique. The improvements in shot mechanics, AI tweaks, and the inclusion of tutorials for beginners are also appreciated. While there are a few minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that NBA 2K18 delivers an impressive and rewarding basketball experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics love NBA 2K18's gameplay, praising its realistic feel, satisfying controls, and requirement for basketball IQ. The game is user-friendly, fast-paced, and polished with subtle improvements. Some critics mention a steep learning curve and potential issues with shot ratings, but overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. NBA 2K18 replicates basketball well in a video game, offering an authentic and enjoyable experience with unique player dynamics and improved mechanics.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

85%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of NBA 2K18, it is evident that the majority of critics had positive views on this aspect of the game. The game was praised for its attention to detail, realistic player models, and lifelike experience. GameSpot, Sporting News, Trusted Reviews, Xbox Achievements, XboxAddict, Nintendo Enthusiast, NintendoWorldReport, USgamer, COGconnected, Critical Hit, DarkStation, Gaming Age, God is a Geek, Hardcore Gamer, Impulsegamer, LevelUp, NZGamer, PlayStation LifeStyle, Polygon, and TheSixthAxis all commended the graphics and visual design of NBA 2K18. The positive aspects of the game's graphics and visual design include the realistic player animations, detailed environments, and impressive presentation. Critics such as GameSpot, Trusted Reviews, and COGconnected specifically mentioned the replication of what one would see on TV and the creation of a lifelike experience. The graphics were described as top-notch, jaw-droppingly life-like, and capturing the flow of the sport perfectly. The visuals were also praised for their attention to detail in player likenesses, accessories, environment, and even sweat. The game's presentation, including the audience, cheerleaders, mascots, and referees, was praised for creating an immersive experience similar to watching an NBA game on TV. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by a few critics. Sporting News pointed out occasional issues with body parts clipping through other players, while XboxAddict criticized the design and appearance of the background and spectators, stating that it lacked effort. Merlin'in Kazanı mentioned technical issues such as freezing and graphical errors, which negatively impacted the visual design. Wccftech also noted that the graphics engine in NBA 2K18 was due for an update, with some players looking off and character creation being weak. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of NBA 2K18 were very good. The majority of reviewers praised the game for its realistic player models, attention to detail, and lifelike experience. The visuals were described as stunning, fantastic, impressive, and visually stunning. The game's graphics were considered to be some of the best on the Nintendo Switch, and it was commended for its authentic NBA action and accurate presentation. Despite a few minor issues and technical glitches, the positive feedback from the critics outweighed the negatives, making NBA 2K18 a visually impressive game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

NBA 2K18's graphics wowed critics with realistic player models, detailed environments, and TV-like presentation, earning praise from numerous reviewers for its lifelike experience. While some noted minor issues like body clipping and technical glitches, the overall consensus is highly positive, with the game being lauded as visually stunning and one of the best on the Nintendo Switch.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

75%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K18 are generally positive. Many critics praised the game for its great and varied commentary, which is considered to be the best in the business. The commentary system is described as natural, reactive, and seamlessly rolling with the twists and turns of the games without becoming repetitive. The game also features impressive sideline reporters and pregame analysis, adding to the immersive audio experience. The soundtrack of NBA 2K18 is highly regarded, with critics mentioning that it includes great tunes from popular artists. The soundtrack is curated well, with tracks from various genres, and is praised for replicating the feel of a real NBA game. The game's sound design is also commended for making the game feel authentic, with commentators, crowd noise, and even controller vibrations indicating the ideal time to release the ball. While the overall sentiment towards the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K18 is positive, there are some criticisms mentioned by the critics. One of the main drawbacks mentioned is the voice acting in the career mode, which is described as lacking by XboxAddict. Additionally, there are multiple glitches in the MyCareer mode that mar the audio experience, as mentioned by USgamer. These issues detract from an otherwise stellar audio experience and could have been improved to provide a more immersive and seamless gameplay. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that NBA 2K18 has a great Sound Design and Music. The commentary is widely regarded as the best in the business, with natural and reactive soundbites from NBA players and coaches. The soundtrack is praised for its variety and inclusion of popular tunes from multiple genres. The game's sound design successfully replicates the feel of a real NBA game, with authentic commentary, crowd noise, and controller vibrations. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as lacking voice acting in the career mode and glitches in the MyCareer mode, these issues do not significantly detract from the overall positive audio experience of NBA 2K18. Overall, the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K18 are highly regarded by the critics, contributing to the immersive and enjoyable gameplay experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise NBA 2K18 for its exceptional sound design and music, highlighting the top-notch commentary, varied soundtrack, and authentic game atmosphere. While some criticize voice acting and glitches, overall, the game delivers an immersive audio experience that enhances gameplay.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

22%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

In terms of positive opinions, some critics praised the voice acting in NBA 2K18. Cubed3 specifically mentioned that the cut-scenes in the MyCareer mode were excellently voiced. This indicates that there were instances where the voice acting successfully brought the story to life and added to the immersive experience. Additionally, COGconnected stated that the voice acting in the MyGM and MyCareer modes was done well enough to avoid detracting from the overall experience. This suggests that the voice acting in these modes was competent and did not hinder the enjoyment of the game. On the other hand, there were also negative opinions regarding the voice acting in NBA 2K18. XboxAddict criticized the voice acting in the career mode, describing it as bland and somewhat off. This implies that the voice performances in this particular mode may have lacked depth and failed to fully engage players. Furthermore, God is a Geek expressed dissatisfaction with the voice acting in the story mode, describing it as poorly acted and off-putting. This negative opinion suggests that the voice performances in the story mode may have fallen short in terms of quality and believability. Overall, the consensus among the critics seems to be mixed regarding the voice acting in NBA 2K18. While there were instances of excellently voiced cut-scenes in the MyCareer mode, as noted by Cubed3, there were also criticisms of bland and off-putting voice acting in the career and story modes, as mentioned by XboxAddict and God is a Geek respectively. However, it is worth noting that COGconnected highlighted that the voice acting in the MyGM and MyCareer modes was competent enough to not detract from the overall experience. Therefore, it can be concluded that the voice acting in NBA 2K18 had its strengths and weaknesses, ultimately resulting in a mixed reception among the critics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics had mixed opinions on the voice acting in NBA 2K18. While some praised the voice work in MyCareer mode, others criticized it as bland and off-putting in career and story modes. Overall, the voice acting had its highs and lows, leaving reviewers divided on its impact on the game's experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

18%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of NBA 2K18, there are both positive and negative aspects mentioned by the critics for each gaming platform. Starting with the positives, GameSpot and Sporting News both mention that the game runs well on the Nintendo Switch. GameSpot specifically states that it is playable, while Sporting News notes that some technical issues are expected to be resolved in the future. Cheat Code Central also mentions that they did not encounter any issues with online play on the PS4. These positive comments suggest that the game performs adequately on both the Nintendo Switch and PS4 platforms. However, there are several negative aspects mentioned by the critics for each gaming platform. Xbox Achievements highlights online games being plagued with lag and dropping frames, making for a difficult experience. NintendoWorldReport and USgamer both mention bugs, glitches, and server problems, with USgamer specifically criticizing the constant server problems and loss of MyCareer player. Switch Player mentions memory issues and an emphasis on microtransactions, which threaten the overall package of the game. Critical Hit and Gaming Age mention lengthy load times, while Hardcore Gamer mentions occasional technical issues such as crashes and collision problems. IGN also notes minor frame rate issues in online play. These negative comments indicate that NBA 2K18 has some technical shortcomings on all platforms. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that NBA 2K18 has mixed technical performance. While the game runs well on the Nintendo Switch according to GameSpot, Sporting News, and Nintendo Enthusiast, it falls short of its bigger brothers (PS4 and Xbox One) as mentioned by GameSpot. The critics highlight various technical issues such as lag, frame rate drops, bugs, glitches, long load times, and server problems across all platforms. These issues, along with the emphasis on microtransactions, impact the overall experience of the game. It is worth noting that some critics mention that certain technical issues are expected to be resolved in future patches, indicating that the developers are actively working on improving the game's performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

NBA 2K18 receives mixed reviews for its technical performance on different gaming platforms. While praised for running well on the Nintendo Switch and PS4, critics highlight issues like lag, bugs, long load times, and microtransactions. Despite some positive feedback, the game falls short in comparison to its counterparts on the PS4 and Xbox One. Developers are working on resolving these technical issues, offering hope for future improvements.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

54%

Mixed (50-79)

42%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of NBA 2K18 is largely positive, with critics praising the game for its numerous game modes and choices that provide ample opportunities for replayability. GameSpot, New York Daily News, Sporting News, Trusted Reviews, Nintendo Enthusiast, NintendoWorldReport, and GameStar all highlight the game's various modes and features that offer a wide range of experiences for players. These modes include MyCareer, MyGM, MyLeague, MyTeam, Play Now, and online multiplayer, which provide plenty of replay value. The immense amount of authentic content, ability to customize characters, and level up stats are also mentioned as positive aspects by Cubed3. However, there are some negative aspects that critics point out. Xbox Achievements mentions that grinding for in-game currency is necessary for meaningful progression, which can be a drawback for some players. XboxAddict mentions that while the game offers various modes, the career mode can become boring after a few games. DarkStation also highlights the grind for virtual currency as a potential factor that may affect the game's replayability. TheSixthAxis criticizes the game's progression system and the advantage gained through microtransactions, which can be off-putting for players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that NBA 2K18 offers a significant amount of replay value. The game's numerous game modes, depth, historic teams and players, and the ability to customize characters and level up stats are mentioned as positive aspects that contribute to its replayability. Critics such as Cheat Code Central, Wccftech, and Worth Playing emphasize the game's extensive content and the hours of gameplay it can provide. However, the grind for virtual currency, potential boredom in the career mode, and the game's business model and progression system are mentioned as potential drawbacks. Despite these negatives, the overall sentiment is that NBA 2K18 offers enough reasons for players to come back to it, making it a worthwhile purchase for basketball fanatics and those looking for a variety of gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

replay value

NBA 2K18 is praised for its replay value due to various game modes and customization options, offering a wide range of experiences. Critics highlight modes like MyCareer, MyGM, and MyTeam, but mention drawbacks such as the need to grind for in-game currency. Despite some negatives like potential boredom in career mode and microtransactions, the game's depth and content make it a compelling choice for basketball fans seeking diverse gameplay experiences.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

24%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics, it is clear that NBA 2K18 has received a mix of positive and negative feedback. The game is praised for its gameplay, graphics, and presentation by multiple critics such as Sporting News, Trusted Reviews, Nintendo Enthusiast, and DarkStation. These critics highlight the exceptional gameplay experience and the game's ability to provide an authentic basketball experience. They also commend the game for its attention to detail and celebration of the league's history. Additionally, critics like Cheat Code Central and Worth Playing consider NBA 2K18 to be a standout sports simulator, with the latter even calling it the pinnacle of basketball simulation games. However, the game faces criticism for its reliance on microtransactions and in-game currency systems. Critics such as GameSpot, Xbox Achievements, GameStar, and Polygon express concerns over the need to spend real money to progress in the game. They argue that these microtransactions mar the overall experience and create a pay-to-win element. The dependency on microtransactions and virtual currency is seen as a negative aspect that hampers the multiplayer experience, as mentioned by NZGamer. Furthermore, PlayStation LifeStyle highlights conflicting feelings towards the game, praising its gameplay and presentation but criticizing its story mode and business model. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that NBA 2K18 offers a solid and enjoyable basketball experience. The game is praised for its gameplay, graphics, and attention to detail. It is considered by many as one of the best basketball games ever made and a template for sports sims. However, the negative aspects, particularly the microtransactions and reliance on in-game currency, are a recurring concern among the critics. While some critics believe the game pushes the series forward in new and exciting ways, others express disappointment in the focus on monetization rather than providing a comprehensive experience. It is evident that NBA 2K18 has its strengths and weaknesses, ultimately leaving it up to the players to decide if the overall experience is worth it.

TL;DR

NBA 2K18 is praised for its stellar gameplay and graphics but criticized for its heavy reliance on microtransactions. Critics laud its authentic basketball experience but express concerns about the pay-to-win element created by in-game purchases. While some hail it as a top-tier sports simulator, others question its focus on monetization over gameplay quality. Ultimately, NBA 2K18 offers a solid basketball experience, with its strengths and weaknesses leaving players to judge its overall worth.

MONSTER

Reviews

122 reviews found

Trusted Reviews

Xbox One

Sep 18, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that NBA 2K18 is very likely the best basketball game ever made and praises it as a template for sports sims on nearly every level.

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Worth Playing

PlayStation 4

Sep 27, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives NBA 2K18 a score of 9.0/10 and praises it as the pinnacle of basketball simulation games.

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Cheat Code Central

PlayStation 4

Sep 19, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer claims that NBA 2K18 may be the best sports simulator of the year and praises Visual Concepts for pushing the envelope. They also mention that the game is a masterful success.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 4

Oct 13, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that NBA 2K18 is an amazing game with many new fun aspects to it, and recommends it to both NBA fans and newcomers.

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Sporting News

Xbox One

Sep 18, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

NBA 2K18 is an exceptional game that shines in gameplay, graphics, and its celebration of the league's history. However, there are some technical issues and concerns over the in-game currency system.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Sep 25, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

NBA 2K18 is an incredible basketball game, with excellent gameplay, graphics, and content, but let down by its weak story and reliance on microtransactions.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 4

Sep 21, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

NBA 2K18 is praised for its solid gameplay, authentic presentation, and improvements to MyCareer. The technical issues are a downside, but overall, the game pushes the series forward in new and exciting ways.

NZGamer

PlayStation 4

Oct 24, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is visually stunning and the gameplay is polished, but the dependency on microtransactions and Virtual Currency hampers the multiplayer experience.

GameStar

Oct 8, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review mentions that NBA 2K18 is the best sports simulation game currently available, but criticizes its pay-to-win elements.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Sep 29, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer concludes that NBA 2K18 is a welcome addition to the Switch library and praises its graphics and gameplay.