NBA 2k18: A Brief Scouting Report
Like an NBA superstar; 2k18 looks and performs at an all-star level, but you’ll have to pay to get the most out of it
The 2k basketball franchise has been far and away the MVP in the basketball gaming arena for the past couple of decades, and despite EA Sports’ NBA Live offering some competition in recent years, I can’t see that changing for the foreseeable future. If you are unfamiliar with the game or the NBA altogether, like many British gamers, then allow me to provide you with a just a couple of the strengths and weaknesses of this stunning, yet controversial installment of the NBA 2k series.
Strength: Visuals
Let me begin by giving 2k18 the credit it deserves as a truly stunning sports game. Jumping straight into the action, 2k flaunts its high definition visual performance from the outset with its colourful pregame buildup and team introductions. Following tip-off you’re hit with the smoothness of the graphics; every wrinkle, every drip of sweat visible on the players’ skin. Yes, this level of detailed graphics was present in 2k17, but 2k18 is the first time in which we finally get to see these details run just like a Warriors offence: in smooth unison.
Strength: Player likeness
The player likeness in 2k18 is the best we’ve seen in a basketball game, perhaps even in any sports game. With almost every player moving and feeling just as they do in the real world, even off the ball; from Steph Curry chewing on his gum shield, to LeBron’s constant fidgeting with his hands and jersey, 2k18 really makes you feel part of the NBA experience. Playing styles are also amazingly lifelike; players such as Westbrook and Wall will cause you problems all night long with their pace and power, whilst Curry and Klay can’t be given an inch of space running off screens.
Weakness: VC, VC, VC
Now here’s where it gets ‘controversial’…
So the game looks and feels as real as it ever has. Then what’s the catch? Two letters: V-C. At this stage in 2k’s history, VC has become an (unfortunately) expected feature of the game, but this is not to say that its acceptable. At least not in its current state. As a huge 2k fan, I don't take pleasure in saying this…but 2k, you’re taking the p***now. Call me old school, but as a dedicated MyCareer player, the game’s focus on virtual currency has somewhat reduced the enjoyment I get out of playing it. Sure, grinding those long hours to improve your player is all part of the fun, but it seems as though unless you want to pay north of 20 quid (on top of the £40–50 for the game itself), achieving that coveted 99 overall is an impossibility.
And it’s not just your players performance that suffers at the hands of VC. Gone are the days when you could live out your NBA fantasies and mimic a prime Allen Iverson, kitting your player out with lightning speed, a headband, cornrows and tats. 2k now has you paying VC for ALL of these features, even a trim!
Weakness: Glitches
Despite its flashy graphics and smooth running engine, 2k has once again failed to eradicate the all too common issue of glitches and crashes in 2k18. Progress too far in MyGM mode and you might see Justin Anderson (he’s a Sixers reserve) crowned MVP thanks to his admirable ability to place first alphabetically in the league. Whilst these glitches cause the occasional hindrance to game-play, the overall performance of the game makes these minor faults forgivable.
Overall Grade: B
On the court, 2k18 runs as beautifully as ever. The stunning graphics, uncanny player likeness and player movement is as close to the real thing as we’ve ever seen. Let’s make this clear, 2k is still extremely fun to play, and I often find myself several hours into MyCareer before realising the extent of my gaming sesh. However, as an old school gamer who simply wants to be rewarded for his hard work and dedication in offline career gameplay without having to bust the bank on VC, I can’t help but feel slightly snaked by 2k. It’s hard to forgive its intent on rinsing players of their hard earned cash, which makes an otherwise spectacular sports game fall just short of being a slam dunk.
