NBA 2K25: Small steps on the way to a huge victory

There’s an inherent problem with digital sports games, when they reach a certain peak or even just a state that’s convenient for the development team, they tend not to change too much beyond team roster changes. I’m happy to announce that NBA 2K25, the NBA league simulation game from 2K Sports, has introduced enough small but necessary changes this year that make it one of the best sports games released in recent years.

From a general perspective, the game offers a more realistic and advanced basketball experience than ever before, with many improvements in the animation system, spectacular graphics, and varied game modes. Those who are already used to the series will not be surprised when they see the opening screen and the menu, it is the same as in previous years. The graphics are also excellent as usual, perhaps some of the best ever seen in a sports game.

The characters look realistic, the movements are smooth and natural, and the small details like sweat and facial movements add to the authenticity of the game. Among the small, but significant improvements I mentioned earlier, there is the new animation system, ProPLAY, which includes thousands of new and improved animations, making the game smoother and more realistic. The theme of animations is also reflected in the improved shooting method.

Beyond a cleaner and clearer shooting meter, which can also be customized, this year a new shot movement was added, unique to the player by choice. By waving the analog stick it will trigger a dribble move to set you up for a free throw, before starting the shot animation. This, along with other small improvements such as an upgrade to the badge system (player improvement bonuses), make the experience of strengthening your player in career mode much more enjoyable, but we’ll get to that later.

Most of you are familiar with the different game modes in NBA 2K25, in names and presentation they remained similar, but here too there are additions worth noting. Let’s start with the “Career” mode – in this mode, the player creates a personal basketball player and leads him to a professional career in the NBA. This year, the story mode features a new and engaging plot, with an emphasis on building a personal dynasty.

There are improvements to the player build system, including more customization options and even the ability to pre-select him to resemble a current or past NBA player you like. The most significant change for me this year was the option to choose how you want to deal with the career situation. If in the past we had to complete the story of high school and college before reaching the NBA or going out to play on the street, now it’s all in your hands.

The game allows you to choose from the entrance what you want to do, so that you can win 2 championships and bring your player to the level of 99 overall and only then go compete against high school players or in the European finals. The plot itself is excellent, it is short enough not to tire and the atmosphere in the games is amazing. The world of street basketball and the open world of 2K25 has also been expanded, and there is even a subway to move faster.

This year we made a special adjustment so that in online street games you will get players who are at your level, so you can relax with the in-game VC purchases – another welcome improvement. The city and the neighborhood received a redesign with new lots, shops and events. Players can explore the city, participate in special events and play in new street courts.

Their group – your wallet

Another classic mod that returned this year is “My Group”. In this mod you collect current and historical player cards, and use them to play all kinds of games (one on one, three on three, five on five, etc.). In this mod there are online meetings with various events and local games against the computer. For the most part I haven’t spent a long time in this mod because it’s hard to get the players you want without paying.

This year they let you start with a historical giant player of your choice, so that makes it more fun early on. But to win you still need their team, especially against online players, and that means opening your wallet. Luckily there are plenty of things to do in the game that don’t require financial sacrifice.

A great example of this is MyNBA and MyGM, my favorite mods in the game. In these situations, the player takes on the role of general manager of an NBA team. This year there are several big innovations. Added the option to play in the “Steph Curry Era”, starting in the 2016-2017 season. Players can try to rewrite history and face one of the greatest teams in NBA history. The NBA Cup is more deeply integrated into the MyNBA mode, with competitive home stages and intense knockout stages.

Team management has been improved and became more intuitive, with new options for managing and expanding the league. This year added the possibility to roam freely in the new MyGM building, where you can manage all your important activities as a general manager. You can chat with teammates, discuss strategies with the head coach and manage the budget with the CFO.

Additionally, players can choose a backstory for the character they create, which affects the character’s starting attributes. For example, a general manager who was a former player will have different attributes than a general manager who was a scout. Features such as offensive training, defensive training, sports medicine, business, charisma and analytics can be upgraded. Each feature affects different aspects of group management.

Of course, the game allows you to instantly step into the shoes of any player or team you can think of from current time or NBA history. There is of course the W League, this mode focuses on women’s basketball, and allows players to lead the next stars of the WNBA to a successful career. The mode includes competitions and special events, with an emphasis on building a personal dynasty. And in addition, this year a new and necessary learning mode was added in which you will learn all the moves.

In conclusion, NBA 2K25 is one of the best sports games released in recent years. It offers a realistic and challenging gaming experience, with spectacular graphics and varied game modes. Although there are some drawbacks, such as a steep learning curve and high costs in MyTEAM mode, the game still provides many hours of enjoyment for basketball lovers.