NBA 2K22

Pros

• Features simulation-like gaming realism
• An Enhanced management mode
• Improved animations and graphics

Cons

• Microtransaction expenses
• Needs a fairly powerful Windows computer

By installing NBA-2k22 on a Windows computer, Basketball gamers can flex their b-ball muscles. Upon installing, the program finishes its setup, the game gets underway in the twenty-third version of the National Basketball Association gaming simulator, then the fun begins. From here, a few clicks on a gamepad put real teams and players at a gamers' fingertips. A make-believe pro journey begins, adrenaline bursts speed up the player's heart, and the hoop shots flash by as a blur. And all of this happens from a computer, without the need for a hulking, ball-hustling physique.

That's what to expect when NBA-2k22 is used on a fairly powerful Windows machine. The comfort of a warm home replaces a noisy basketball court. There's no sweating to cope with, no Gatorade to replace lost electrolytes, but everything else is in place. That's because this version of the popular sports game plays more like a simulation and less like an arcade game. That's an important difference. Expect also, because of this crucial difference, moments where players grow tired due to a drop in stamina. They slow down, make mistakes, miss the hoop, and the game is lost. Clearly, the gaming engine demands more from players in this version. A passing strategy is needed, or perhaps a change of pace will do the trick. Either way, this game won't be won unless a player ups their management skills.

Besides the need for deeper strategies and smarter team tactics, there are numerous modes to play with as a gamer becomes familiar with the software's controls. Build a team of former basketball legends in the MyTeam menu. Add current players into the mix to see how they would have performed as a Dream Team. Favour management mode over a standard player mode by becoming a mighty executive. It's here that Windows users can step up their game and compete with the best. Honestly, by switching to MyLeague or MyGM, micromanagement types can play this game on a whole other level, perhaps by drafting in a few superstars or by trading out an undeveloped b-baller for fresh new talent.

Dream lineups are one thing, but some of us just want to play the game. That's not a problem, not when there are realistic environments and super-detailed players to call upon. There are also improved animations and skills to tap into on a responsive gamepad. Those moves allow a more immersive gaming experience, with skill-based dribbling, dunking, attacks and defensive moves headlining the game's list of graphical improvements. Due to such incremental improvements, court reflections have deepened. Player face animations also seem a little more human, with sweat beading their tired foreheads. All-in-all, NBA-2k22 is a worthy update, although micromanagement issues do arguably take the shine of the software's excellent gameplay modes.

Pros

• Features simulation-like gaming realism
• An Enhanced management mode
• Improved animations and graphics

Cons

• Microtransaction expenses
• Needs a fairly powerful Windows computer