NBA 2K25 marks another iteration in the long-running basketball simulation series, aiming to refine its core gameplay while introducing some new features. Despite some incremental changes, the game remains a mixture of both innovation and lingering issues. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses.
Visuals and Presentation
As with previous NBA 2K titles, NBA 2K25 excels in presentation. The graphics on the PS5 are impressive, with even more detailed player models and lifelike animations. Thanks to the newly introduced ProPLAY technology, player movements and animations feel more realistic and tailored to individual athletes. For example, stars like Victor Wembanyama move and perform with more authenticity, mimicking their real-world tendencies, which adds a level of immersion that was missing in previous games. The courts and crowd animations are also visually stunning, making each game feel like a true NBA spectacle. However, while the player scans and lighting are top-notch, non-player character expressions, such as those of coaches or sideline personnel, still need refinement and can sometimes feel stiff and unnatural.
Gameplay Enhancements
The ProPLAY technology is undoubtedly the standout addition in NBA 2K25. This system allows players to mimic real-life tendencies of NBA stars, making gameplay feel more dynamic and true to life. For example, watching Jalen Brunson pull off his signature footwork or seeing Caitlin Clark dominate with step-back threes is incredibly satisfying. Ball physics have also seen improvements, meaning that shots now feel more responsive, and missed shots can lead to more realistic rebounding opportunities, adding unpredictability to each possession.
Another notable upgrade comes in defensive play. The AI now adjusts better to offensive plays, meaning players can expect tougher defense on the pick-and-roll and more fluid team movements in response to screens and cuts. Despite these improvements, some issues persist, such as occasional defensive breakdowns, particularly when switching defenders against quick pick-and-rolls(
Game Modes
As usual, NBA 2K25 features a variety of game modes that cater to both casual and hardcore fans. The MyCareer mode remains a fan favorite, allowing players to guide their custom character through the trials of an NBA career. However, while this mode has seen some tweaks, such as better animation and customization options, the storyline remains somewhat lackluster and lacks the depth that would keep players fully engaged over the long term.
The MyTeam mode continues to be a core feature of the game, offering players the ability to build their dream team through card packs and challenges. This mode is highly customizable, but it is still heavily dependent on microtransactions, which detracts from the overall experience for many players. The pay-to-win aspect, particularly in online competitive play, can feel frustrating, especially when opponents with higher-rated players dominate through in-game purchases(
A refreshing aspect of NBA 2K25 is its continued focus on the WNBA, which now includes even more depth and features. With stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese leading the charge, the WNBA mode is not just a side offering, but a fully fleshed-out experience that mirrors the intensity and pace of the men’s game.
The game also introduces Eras Play, allowing players to relive historical periods of the NBA, including the new Steph Curry Era, which pays homage to one of the game’s modern legends. Unfortunately, classic rosters have not seen much improvement, and the ProPLAY system’s influence is mostly absent in these retro modes(
Online Play and Microtransactions
Online play is where NBA 2K25 both shines and falters. The new Leagues system brings a fresh competitive edge to online play, allowing players to move up in rankings based on performance. This mode offers a sense of progression and rewards players who take the time to master their skills. However, the continued reliance on microtransactions, particularly in modes like MyTeam and MyCareer, remains a significant downside. Progression can feel grind-heavy for those unwilling to spend additional money, and this “pay-to-win” mechanic continues to tarnish the overall balance of competitive online matches(
Conclusion
NBA 2K25 on the PS5 is a visually stunning and mechanically refined basketball sim that continues to push the boundaries of what sports games can achieve. The ProPLAY technology makes player movements and animations more authentic than ever, and the game modes, particularly MyTeam and the WNBA features, offer a lot of content for fans. However, the persistent issues with microtransactions and some lackluster storytelling in MyCareer prevent this entry from being a slam dunk. If you’re a fan of the series or new to NBA 2K, there’s plenty to enjoy here, but for long-time players, the game’s incremental improvements may not be enough to justify a full-price purchase(