If you love basketball, there is no way to feel closer to the action than to play your own games on the virtual court. Below, we go over some of the best basketball video game series. If you have not experienced any of these games yet, you are missing out. But with the upcoming release of NBA 2K23 right around the corner, you can jump in on September 9th.
These are the Best Basketball Video Game Series
1. NBA 2K
By far the most popular basketball video game series on the planet is NBA 2K. This series has been around since 1999, with new editions each season. Over the years, the franchise has expanded games modes, features and functionality to include MyCAREER, MyTEAM, MyGM, and more. If you are going to play just one basketball video game series, the NBA 2K series should be it.
2. NBA Live
Despite the fact that NBA Live never became as popular as NBA 2K, it was a solid series that wasn’t far behind in terms of what it offered. Alas, the last game in this series was NBA Live 19. There are no indications that there will be future NBA Live games.
3. The NBA Street Series
This arcade-style series by EA Sports showcases street basketball, and has been around since 2001. To date, there are seven titles in the series, but we have not seen a new title since 2007. Unlike NBA 2K and NBA Live, the NBA Street Series has never aimed for realism. Instead, its focus has been on fun power-ups and tricks. It would sure be great to see another game in this series; it has been way too long.
4. NBA Jam
Like the NBA Street Series, NBA Jam is a series that is focuses on over-the-top fun rather than on realistic gameplay. In fact, there is no way that real players could ever execute some of the crazy moves you will see in NBA Jam—but that is exactly what makes it such a blast to play. The first game in this series came out clear back in 1993. The last game in the series to date released in 2011.
Excited to experience the thrilling world of the best basketball video games for yourself? You can pre-order NBA 2K23 now. Find out what to expect from the upcoming game, and check our NBA 2K news section for additional updates.