What sets it apart from the “previous” generation is that it’s not confined to improving the graphics. The most noticeable aspect of the game is that the entire presentation looks like it was something that you’d watch on TV. There's evidently been a great deal of attention paid to detail, with all the replays at the dynamic angles that you’d expect from off the TV, and half-time commentary from the boundary riders.
Need to turn up the heat.
Even though our play time was not substantial enough to pass judgement on this aspect, we can see that the in-game advertising will end up being something of an annoyance. I mean, no one really likes commercials anyway, and it’s one aspect of gaming that sets it apart form watching TV (until now). However, at least it is put in an authentic context and the game is backed up by some top-notch commentary.
Graphically, the game was very impressive in the key areas, with both the player models and animations superb. Interestingly, there have been complaints leveled at NBA Live 06 (from EA) that the graphics don’t really come together, and that it all looks unrealistic. The same thing can’t be said for NBA 2K6, as when you’re playing, everything looks very realistic. There were a few occasions of clipping but they could only be seen in the replays. It was amazing to see how you could see the beads of sweat forming on players as the game progressed and the dynamic effects on the ball.
There were a few minor points of concern, though these were primarily confined to off-the-court issues. It’s an odd feeling as a player walks past someone on the sideline, to see the quantum difference in the quality of the model. The bald guy on the sidelines looks decidedly ordinary when stood next to an actual player. That, and the crowd were a bit inanimate, and there are murmurings that the experience is greatly diminished if you don’t have a HDTV.
He'll put his head through the hoop
On the gameplay front, the game will be pretty much the same as it was on the Xbox and PS2. This includes a new innovation called the "shot stick". This mechanic controls some juke moves when you’re in attack. That is, you can perform tricks in the air as you perform a slam-dunk. In defense, it can help you steal the ball. This is all controlled by the right analogue stick. Otherwise, you have a very good looking basketball game with plenty of modes and options, with modes including Franchise, user-created Dynasty and, of course, online play.
The best thing that can be said about NBA 2K6, is that it looks like its got its act together. It won’t reinvent the wheel but it looks like it will provide a solid game of basketball for anyone who cares and wants some next-gen tasting.
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