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MONSTER

NBA 2K22

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of NBA 2K22
Item: NBA 2K22
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresThird Person Perspective, Simulation, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 10, 2021

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperVisual Concepts

Overview

NBA 2K22 puts the entire basketball universe in your hands. Play now in real NBA and WNBA environments against authentic teams and players. Build your own dream team in MyTeam with today’s stars and yesterday’s legends. Live out your own pro journey in MyCareer and experience your personal rise to the NBA. Flex your management skills as a powerful Executive in MyGM and MyLeague. Anyone, anywhere can hoop in NBA 2K22.

Elsewhere

5.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22's MyCareer mode introduces a vibrant open-world experience and RPG elements that some critics appreciate for enhancing immersion. However, the overall reception is largely negative, with widespread disappointment over a weak plot, shallow character development, and a disjointed narrative. While the new design has potential, many feel it fails to deliver an engaging story, leaving fans wanting more compared to past installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The opinions on the story of NBA 2K22 reveal some noteworthy positives, particularly regarding the new open-world experience introduced in the MyCareer mode. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Impulsegamer highlight the innovative design that allows players to navigate through a vibrant city, enhancing the immersion of the narrative. The integration of RPG elements, as noted by Gamepressure and BaziCenter, adds depth to character interactions and player choices, making the journey towards NBA stardom feel more personalized and engaging. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Dexerto and Meristation, commend the revamped narrative structure, which includes more cutscenes and improved voice acting, providing a fresh take on the player's rise to fame and brand building. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story of NBA 2K22 is predominantly negative, with many critics expressing disappointment in its execution. PLAY! Zine and GamingTrend point out the lack of a compelling plot and strong character development, suggesting that the narrative feels disjointed and uninspired. Critics like GameCritics and Xbox Achievements describe the story as boring and predictable, with some labeling it as cheesy and lacking depth. Furthermore, the shift towards a more open-world format, while praised by some, is criticized by others, including GameOver.gr and Merlin'in Kazanı, for feeling superficial and failing to deliver a coherent and engaging storyline. In summary, while there are aspects of NBA 2K22's story mode that some critics appreciate, such as the open-world design and RPG elements, the consensus leans towards disappointment. Many reviewers, including those from Game Informer and Pure Nintendo, highlight the narrative's weaknesses, including shallow character development and a lack of engaging plotlines. The shift away from a traditional basketball story towards a more social media-influenced narrative has not resonated well with many players, leading to a mixed reception overall. Critics seem to agree that while the game offers potential for immersive storytelling, it ultimately falls short of the expectations set by its predecessors.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22 impresses critics with refined shooting, strategic defense, smoother animations, and a new stamina system that enhances realism and control. However, issues like clunky controls, inconsistent mechanics, and pay-to-win elements detract from the experience. Overall, it's seen as a significant upgrade in the series, appealing to both casual and hardcore players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of NBA 2K22 has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting various improvements that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Wccftech and Push Square, commend the game for its refined shooting mechanics and revamped defensive gameplay, which has been described as more strategic and satisfying. Critics like SpazioGames and Attack of the Fanboy note the smoother animations and improved player movements, contributing to a more realistic and engaging basketball simulation. The introduction of a stamina system has also been highlighted, as it adds depth to gameplay, encouraging players to strategize their moves and manage player fatigue effectively. Overall, the game is seen as a step forward in terms of realism and control, with many reviewers, including TheGamer and Dexerto, asserting it as one of the best sports simulations available. However, not all feedback is positive, as some critics have pointed out several persistent issues. GamingTrend expressed frustration with the controls, describing them as obtuse and unresponsive, which can detract from the gameplay experience. Impulsegamer and TierraGamer also mentioned that while there are improvements, certain mechanics, such as dribbling and AI defense, still require further refinement. Additionally, TierraGamer raised concerns about pay-to-win elements and physics glitches that mar the overall experience. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Vgames echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the gameplay has improved, issues like shot meter inconsistency and animation bugs still exist, which can frustrate players. Despite the mixed feedback regarding specific issues, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering NBA 2K22 to be a significant improvement over its predecessor. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the enhancements made in gameplay mechanics, with critics like God is a Geek and Gamepressure emphasizing the balance between offense and defense. The game has been recognized for its ability to engage players with its strategic depth and realism, making it a compelling choice for both casual and dedicated basketball fans. As a result, NBA 2K22 is positioned as a noteworthy entry in the franchise, with many reviewers expressing excitement for its potential and future developments.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22 dazzles on next-gen consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X with stunning graphics and lifelike presentation, earning praise for realism and immersive environments. However, last-gen versions (PS4) fall flat, criticized for stale visuals and minor updates, revealing a stark divide in quality. Developers face a tough challenge to deliver consistent graphics across platforms as technical flaws mar the older hardware experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of NBA 2K22 have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly those reviewing on next-gen consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Many reviewers, including Attack of the Fanboy and Hardcore Gamer, have highlighted the game's incredibly realistic visuals, with attention to detail in player models, animations, and stadium environments. IGN France and IGN Italia also commended the photorealism and cinematic quality of the visual presentation, which enhances the overall basketball simulation experience. The City, in particular, received accolades for its improvements and vibrant atmosphere, as noted by Meristation and God is a Geek, contributing to a more immersive experience for players. However, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design of NBA 2K22, especially on last-gen consoles like the PS4. Gameblog.fr and PSX Extreme lamented the lack of substantial advancements over previous iterations, citing issues such as rigid facial animations and a stagnant feel compared to NBA 2K21. Critics like BaziCenter and MGG echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the visuals felt more like an incremental update rather than a leap forward. Additionally, some reviews noted technical imperfections, such as graphical bugs and inconsistent animations, particularly in modes like MyCareer, which were criticized for their lack of polish. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divide in the visual quality of NBA 2K22 based on the platform. While next-gen versions are celebrated for their stunning graphics and lifelike presentations, last-gen versions are criticized for their lack of innovation and lingering issues from previous titles. Critics like Softpedia and Screen Rant emphasized that while the visuals on next-gen consoles set a high bar for sports games, the experience on older hardware leaves much to be desired. This disparity highlights the ongoing challenge for developers in delivering consistent quality across multiple platforms while pushing the boundaries of graphical fidelity.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22 shines with impressive sound design and a dynamic soundtrack, earning praise for its immersive audio that enhances gameplay. Critics laud the quality of commentary and authentic arena sounds, but several noted issues like repetitive commentary, a lack of innovation in the soundtrack, and distracting elements in the menu. Overall, while the audio experience is strong, there's room for improvement to avoid stagnation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of NBA 2K22 have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as Attack of the Fanboy and Hardcore Gamer praised the in-game announcers and the dynamic soundtrack, which they felt significantly enhanced the gaming experience. BaziCenter noted improvements in sound design, mentioning a wider variety of commentary lines and the inclusion of legendary announcers, which added depth to the audio landscape. Gamepressure echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the quality of sound effects, including player shouts and crowd noise, which contribute to the game's authenticity. IGN France and Impulsegamer also commended the dynamic commentary teams and real NBA arena announcers, reinforcing the game's commitment to delivering an immersive atmosphere. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out notable drawbacks. Merlin'in Kazanı criticized the distracting presence of 2KTV in the main menu, which lacks an option to turn it off, detracting from the experience. GameCritics expressed that the hip-hop soundtrack could become tiresome over time, although they acknowledged that the announcing and audio quality remained above average. Vgames also mentioned that while the soundtrack was enjoyable, it lacked significant innovation compared to previous iterations, suggesting a sense of stagnation in the music selection. Additionally, PlayStation Universe highlighted the repetitive nature of the commentary, which could detract from the overall enjoyment during extended play sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that NBA 2K22 excels in sound design and music, with many praising its immersive qualities and high audio quality. The game successfully integrates a diverse soundtrack and dynamic commentary that enhances the gameplay experience, as noted by critics like Push Square and Xbox Achievements. However, there are concerns regarding the repetitiveness of certain elements, such as commentary and the soundtrack's innovation, as highlighted by GameCritics and Vgames. In summary, while NBA 2K22's audio experience is celebrated for its authenticity and quality, there are areas that could benefit from further refinement to elevate the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22's voice acting is a mixed bag. Some praise the improved quality and enthusiastic performances from announcers and characters, enhancing immersion. However, critics highlight significant flaws, including lackluster character depth and cringe-worthy writing in MyCAREER, which can break immersion. While there are commendable aspects, major areas for improvement remain, leaving players divided on the audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The voice acting in NBA 2K22 has received a mix of praise and critique from various reviewers, highlighting some positive aspects of the game's audio experience. Critics like BaziCenter noted improvements in the quality of voice acting, particularly with the addition of legendary announcers and a broader dialogue set for commentators, which enhances the overall immersion. Similarly, TheXboxHub commended the committed performances of the characters, indicating that the voice actors brought a level of enthusiasm to their roles. Furthermore, PSX Extreme found the voice acting to be decent in cutscenes, suggesting that there are moments where the audio experience resonates well with players. However, several criticisms emerged regarding the voice acting in NBA 2K22, pointing to significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. PLAY! Zine highlighted the absence of strong voice acting, implying a lack of depth in character portrayal. Press Start Australia took a more critical stance, describing the voice acting and writing in MyCAREER as cringe-worthy and immersion-breaking, which could be detrimental for players seeking a more engaging narrative experience. Impulsegamer also noted inconsistencies and interruptions in the commentary, which can disrupt the flow of gameplay and diminish the enjoyment of the audio elements. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in NBA 2K22. While some reviewers, like BaziCenter and TheXboxHub, acknowledged improvements and decent performances, others, including PLAY! Zine and Press Start Australia, pointed out significant flaws that hinder the game's narrative immersion. This dichotomy suggests that while there are commendable aspects to the voice acting, particularly in the commentary and character performances, there remain critical areas for improvement, especially in terms of script quality and character depth. The mixed reviews indicate that NBA 2K22's voice acting may appeal to some players while leaving others wanting more.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

NBA 2K22's technical performance gets mixed reviews across platforms. Critics praise the PS4 for pushing console limits and the PS5 for smooth performance; however, issues like glitches, slowdowns, and crashes plague both these systems, especially the PS5 and Xbox Series X. The Nintendo Switch runs smoothly on-court but suffers from long loading times and connectivity problems. Overall, while some aspects shine, significant technical flaws undermine the experience, highlighting a need for improvements across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

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

The technical performance of NBA 2K22 has garnered a range of opinions across different gaming platforms, with several positive aspects highlighted by critics. On the PlayStation 4, Areajugones noted that the game pushes the limits of current-gen consoles, while Gameblog.fr praised its stability and minimal bugs. On the PlayStation 5, BaziCenter observed smooth performance with stable frame rates during cutscenes, and Meristation referred to the game as a technical reference within the genre. For the Xbox Series X, SomosXbox reported good performance with 60fps and high-definition resolutions, while Pure Xbox acknowledged improved load times. On the Nintendo Switch, despite some limitations, Nintendo Life mentioned that the game runs smoothly on the court, which is a positive note amidst the overall challenges. Conversely, the technical performance of NBA 2K22 is marred by a variety of issues across platforms. On the PlayStation 4, PSX Extreme pointed out glitchy court animations and a bug causing blurriness, while Gameblog.fr criticized the long loading times in Career mode. For the PlayStation 5, critics like GamingTrend and Impulsegamer mentioned constant slowdowns and crashes, particularly when loading specific modes. The Xbox Series X faced significant criticism, with GameCritics and New Game Network reporting issues such as slowdown, clipping, and hard crashes, which detracted from the overall experience. The Nintendo Switch also struggled, with Impulsegamer highlighting server sync issues and frequent crashes, while Vooks noted long loading times and online connectivity problems. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of NBA 2K22 across all platforms. While some reviewers like Meristation and SomosXbox praised the game's stability and performance, many others pointed out significant technical issues that hinder the gameplay experience. Critics such as GamingTrend and GameCritics highlighted frequent crashes and loading problems, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. On the Nintendo Switch, the combination of long loading times and connectivity issues further compounded the game's challenges. Thus, while there are commendable aspects of NBA 2K22’s technical performance, the prevailing sentiment suggests that substantial improvements are necessary to enhance the overall experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TL;DR: NBA 2K22 shines with rich content and replayable modes like MyCareer and MyTeam, winning praise for its diverse gameplay. However, critics slam its heavy reliance on microtransactions and grindy gameplay, which can frustrate players and dampen the experience. While many enjoy the game's offerings, the financial barriers and repetitive elements draw mixed reviews, highlighting a struggle between engaging content and monetization pitfalls.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of NBA 2K22 is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the abundance of content and diverse gameplay modes available to players. Reviewers such as Gameblog.fr and Hardcore Gamer praise the various modes like MyCareer, MyTeam, and MyNBA for enhancing replayability and providing extensive content for players. Critics like Gamepressure and Wccftech also note the game's wealth of activities, including quests, tournaments, and mini-games, which contribute significantly to its replay value. The introduction of new features in modes like MyTeam: Draft and improvements in MyCareer are seen as positive developments that keep players engaged over time. However, several critics express concerns about the game's reliance on microtransactions and the grindiness associated with certain modes, which can detract from the overall experience. For instance, Hooked Gamers and Game Informer mention the frustration stemming from the online pay factor and the repetitive nature of some modes, respectively. Attack of the Fanboy and Game Over.gr also point out that while some modes are enjoyable, others feel neglected or unchanged, potentially limiting long-term engagement. The criticism of the Virtual Currency (VC) system is prevalent, with multiple reviewers, including God is a Geek and Impulsegamer, indicating that it may hinder players' progress and enjoyment. In summary, while NBA 2K22 offers a rich and varied gaming experience that appeals to many players, the consensus among critics is mixed due to the significant impact of microtransactions and repetitive gameplay elements. Critics like Meristation and Screen Rant highlight the game's ability to keep players busy with diverse content, yet they also acknowledge the drawbacks posed by the monetization strategies in place. Overall, NBA 2K22 is recognized for its replay value, but the enjoyment may be tempered by the grind and financial barriers that some players face, as noted by multiple reviews across different platforms.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding NBA 2K22 showcases a blend of appreciation for its gameplay and visual improvements, particularly on next-gen consoles. Critics like Hobby Consolas and IGN France praise the game's refined mechanics and impressive graphics, highlighting it as a top-tier sports simulator. The gameplay experience has been described as engaging and immersive, with several reviewers noting significant strides in gameplay mechanics, especially in defense. Critics such as Wccftech and Gamepressure emphasize that NBA 2K22 stands out as one of the best entries in the franchise in recent years, offering a solid basketball simulation that appeals to both fans and newcomers alike. However, the game is not without its drawbacks. Numerous critics have pointed out the heavy reliance on microtransactions, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. For instance, COGconnected and Xbox Achievements express concern about the monetization strategies, indicating that the game feels more like an advertisement than a standalone gaming experience. Additionally, issues such as technical glitches, long loading times, and problems with certain modes, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, have been highlighted by critics like Impulsegamer and NintendoWorldReport. The sentiment is echoed by Player 2 and Vgames, who feel that the game is a step backward compared to its predecessor, with persistent issues overshadowing minor improvements. In summary, while NBA 2K22 has garnered praise for its gameplay and visual fidelity, the consensus among critics reveals a significant concern regarding its monetization practices and technical issues. Critics like TheGamer and Press Start Australia acknowledge the game's solid foundations but also point out that it struggles with its identity, often prioritizing profit over player experience. Overall, NBA 2K22 presents a mixed bag; it excels in delivering a basketball simulation that appeals to purists but falters under the weight of its microtransaction-heavy model, leaving many players hoping for a more balanced approach in future iterations.

TL;DR

NBA 2K22 impresses with refined gameplay and stunning visuals, especially on next-gen consoles, earning praise as one of the franchise's best. However, critics slam its heavy reliance on microtransactions and technical glitches, with some arguing it feels more like an ad than a true gaming experience. While it appeals to basketball fans, many hope for a more player-focused approach in future games.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 reviews found

Gamepressure

PlayStation 5

Sep 14, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 is praised for its smart tweaks, heightened realism, and overall fan experience. It is considered one of the best basketball games with a season worth of thrills.

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IGN France

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, delivering a comprehensive basketball gaming experience with improved mechanics and engaging gameplay elements. It offers a more immersive and simulation-focused basketball experience, despite some lingering issues with VC monetization.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 4

Sep 21, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 is a great basketball game with improved gameplay mechanics, impressive graphics, and a lot of content.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Sep 17, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 is praised for its gameplay, visuals, modes, and attention to detail, standing out as a top sports simulator despite drawbacks related to monetization in online play.

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Sep 19, 2021

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

The review overall praises the improvements in gameplay and game modes in NBA 2K22, but also mentions some technical imperfections.

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Wccftech

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2021

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

The review concludes that NBA 2K22 is the franchise's best entry in years, with well-balanced changes and a revamp of MyCareer and The City hub.

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Hooked Gamers

Oct 7, 2021

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

The review gives NBA 2K22 a fun score of 8.5 out of 10 and states that it is much improved over the previous edition.

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Meristation

PlayStation 5

Sep 21, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 is a well-crafted game with notable improvements, especially in gameplay and mode variety, despite issues with microtransactions.

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SpazioGames

PlayStation 5

Sep 17, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 delivers a deep and immersive basketball gaming experience, especially on next-gen consoles. It offers engaging gameplay modes, impressive graphics, and well-implemented gameplay innovations, despite some minor flaws like odd ball behavior and animations.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2021

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

NBA 2K22 is an improvement over the previous year's game, particularly in gameplay, but the heavy reliance on VC can be a drawback.

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