NBA 2K19 Reviews
The king of hoops retains the throne.
If the NBA 2K series is the LeBron James of basketball games, then NBA 2K19 is another triple double from Visual Concepts. A game with improved gameplay, a great Prelude and an incomparable presentation. Still, mind that the microtransactions are still here, and they are as annoying as ever.
Review in Italian | Read full review
NBA by 2K is confirmed as the best basketball video game series, with a long and engaging career mode, effective AI and great visual appeal even for this installment. Unfortunately, microtransactions are still a problem and cannot be ignored.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Between a few novel minigames in Neighborhood and some simple esports integration, 2K19 sometimes feels like a title update as opposed to a full-blown sequel. But what really matters, the basketball, is better than it's ever been. While I may have gripes with the design of the game outside of the court, NBA 2K19‘s mechanics are almost perfect in every imaginable way, and that is no small feat! Having played all manner of sports games this generation, it seems as though different developers are interpreting what it means to release a yearly title in different ways. While I understand the core 2K audience enjoying what they're given, there has to be a sense of quality control before the series turns into a games-as-a-service nightmare instead of a proper, AAA release with all the bells and whistles that fans expect ready at release and polished to a T.
While the heavy emphasis on microtransactions is still front and centre in NBA 2K19, progression has been improved enough to make this a far more attractive prospect for both rookies and seasoned vets. With a vastly superior MyCareer story, a revamped social hub, a suitably tweaked MyGM mode and all the presentation-focused bells and whistles you expect from the premiere basketball sim, NBA 2K19 continues to cement itself as one of the Switch's strongest sports offerings. If you needed any more proof that Madden, NHL and the like can work on Nintendo's hardware, this is it.
2K had little choice but to listen to its community following the damage done last year but they've rebounded with possibly their best-ever title.
Basketball has seen many legends etch their name in the Hall of Fame since the very beginning and NBA 2K19 is a masterstroke in showcasing the games illustrious career by offering tight controls, stunning visuals and animations in between the best commentary and visual presentations in the sports game industry. It's unfortunately still hampered with the "pay to gain" mechanic that might put some people off, but the gameplay makes the grind worth it.
The two sides of NBA 2K are once again on display in this year's version. One side is the immensely polished and ambitious design that has propelled it to the top of the sports sim heap. The other is the tacky, brand-heavy microtransactions that dominate its showcase mode. I think the former outweighs the latter, but it's too bad that microtransactions overshadow what should otherwise be an amazing love letter to the sport of basketball. At least there's always franchise mode.
"NBA 2K19" is as complete a sports video game as any ever made, and only its aggressive monetization tactics hold it back from being considered one of the greatest. With four different Franchise Mode variants, an enjoyable Story Mode, a rich suite of online features and continued celebration of the history of the league, "NBA 2K19" offers something for everyone.
NBA 2K19's on-court disappointments are somewhat remedied by the hugely entertaining off-the-court shenanigans, but a steep learning curve may leave less experienced players a little overwhelmed.
The on-court action of NBA 2K19 has never been better, and the new Takeover system adds a fresh wrinkle to the gameplay. However, the continued presence of microtransactions continues to bog down the otherwise overwhelming amount of content.
There seems to be a stronger foundation in place this time around, and for fans, that may be enough to keep their basketball season from ending early.
NBA 2K19 has raised the bar once again, not just for future iterations of the series but for every sports game developed moving forward.
If you've passed on some NBA games, now is the best time to return to the court. It features a ton of refinements across the board and took into consideration some much-requested features from fans. If not for the blatant microtransactions and VC-driven progression system, NBA 2K19 would be the best basketball game on and off the court to date.
A few hiccups along the way, especially in relation to some pretty serious online multiplayer instabilities, definitely bring down the experience in 2K19. Thankfully though, these quibbles don't tarnish what is definitely the best option for your basketball fix this year.
Once again, NBA 2K becomes inevitable. it only fix a few things in terms of mechanics and content but it's enough to offer the best gameplay in the series so far.
Review in French | Read full review
NBA 2K19 continues the series' legacy for offering the best basketball simulator on the market thanks to refined gameplay and a truly immersive presentation.
NBA 2K19 is a masterclass in simulating the mechanics and culture of basketball, but it loves to needle you for money
NBA 2K19 is another impressive outing from Visual Concepts and 2K with just about everything you can think of included. It's a real shame that there is still a heavy reliance on purchasing VC in the modes that matter, but it's plausible to play without giving in to the temptation. Aside from the microtransactions and occasionally tedious load times NBA 2K19 has all the modes, polish, challenges and value you've come to expect from the franchise. It's the annual release that truly lasts a year and if you're a fan, there should be no doubt as to whether or not you should get this year's game.
The world class presentation, excellent execution of modes and gameplay mechanics really do make NBA 2K19 the best sports game around.