Because of the misfortunes surrounding the launch and rebranding of EA’s NBA Elite 11 that eventually led to its cancellation, NBA 2K11
Before we get into it, I’ll like to mention that this is the first sports game I’ve not been forced to play by familial gatherings. So this is a newbie’s look at the franchise, though I did play a bit with my brother so I could get a vet’s opinions on the changes and enhancements from 2K10. Also, the version reviewed is on Xbox 360, so I didn’t have a chance to check out the implementation of motion controls via PS Move. Now on with the game.
It feels odd to be saying this is, but NBA2K11 has the single most memorable opening of any game I’ve played this year. The game starts with a quote of the greatness that is Michael Jordan and questioning what legend you will make. Afterward you’ll find yourself at the start menu, which is where things get interesting. Unlike most games, the game immediately tosses you right into the fray. It’s 1991 and you’re playing as Michael Jordan’s Bulls versus Magic Johnson’s Lakers in the NBA finals. You plunge right as you do your best to win a victory for the fledgling underdogs. After completion, victorious or not, you’ll have access to the main portion of the game.
One thing that must be pointed out it is presentation of NBA2K11. The soundtrack, though entirely licensed suits the game well. The audio commentary by the announcers and the statistical data display feels just like a broadcasted game and the default camera angles are the same as well. In all honesty, if the player models were FFXIII levels of detail, you would think it were a live broadcast.
The main new addition to the game is the Jordan Challenges. These challenges highlight ten of the most memorable moments in MJ’s career. This mode is one of the most difficult things I’ve done as a gamer. Ever. See, it’s not enough to simply win the game. No, you have to replicate what Jordan did in that game as well, be it holding the team to a certain number of points, achieving a triple double, maintaining a certain shot percentage. Once you clear them all, you’ll unlock Michael Jordan: Creating a Legend. In this mode, you step in the shoes Jordan himself as a rookie coming into the 2010 NBA. You’ll be placed on the team of your choice and be playing solely as Jordan. If you go to the bench, the game will simulate until your return. You gain stats and ranking that will directly effect your skills as well as your level of camaraderie with your team mates. In all honesty, this feels like an action RPG, something that both shocked me and thrilled me. Your Jordan will age as you continue play, eventually going with the iconic bald look he’s most well known for.
Interestingly, the RPG comparison is also applicable to the other major time sink in NBA2K11: player creation. Creating your character is absurdly deep; you’ll be customizing everything from the colors of your player’s wristbands to his in-game nickname all the way down to the style of crossover he uses. Further gameplay will unlock even more custom options and you’ll be able to develop your character in a way best suited to your style of play. Similiar to Creating a Legend, you’ll be playing as your character in games.
NBA2K11 has a wealth of content. From the Jordan Challenges, to creating your own character to online play, there is a ton of things to do here. It’s not difficult to see how sport gamers get sucked down the rabbit hole every year. In all honesty, I feel kinda sorry for EA. Had they released the buggy mess that is Elite 11, they would have been completely thrashed going up against this. This game is so good, I am actually considering going in on the whole sports gamer route. Awesome job 2K. You’ve got a new convert.
