The latest games to feature NBA stars

That’s why these elite level players can earn millions of dollars a year through product endorsements, TV and music video appearances, and even movie roles.

However, one area that is sometimes forgotten, is video games, the favourite past time of many a player. NBA stars have been appearing in video games since the 1990s, with their names guaranteed to draw attention to any title and propel it up the charts.

List of NBA Star Players Video Game Appearances

• 1994 Shaquille O’Neal, “Shaq-Fu”
• 1995 Michael Jordan, in “Michael Jordan: Chaos in the Windy City”
• 2003 Dennis Rodman in “Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball”
• 2021 LeBron James, appeared as a Fortnite skin
• 2022 Giannis Antetokounmpo received his own Fortnite skin in Fortnite Battle Royale

With basketball ranking as one of the most popular sports in the world, it’s no surprise video game makers are releasing plenty of basketball themed games. Here’s our round up of some of the latest titles that are well worth checking out.

NBA 2K24

The latest title in the highly successful franchise builds on last year’s offering with new features and gameplay. Developers claim it will provide player animations and movements that deliver a “groundbreaking jump in authenticity.”

As usual, there are multiple game editions to choose from besides the standard edition, including Black Mamba, Kobe Bryant and WNBA. Players also get to choose from several different game modes, including new multiplayer salary cap mode.

NBA 2K24 Game Modes:

• Unlimited (multiplayer)
• Triple Threat
• Clutch Time (single and multiplayer)
• Salary Cap Mode (multiplayer)
• MyCareer
• MyTeam
• MyNBA

New features include ProPLAY, that the developers claim to be “a groundbreaking new technology that directly translates NBA footage into NBA 2K24 gameplay”.

Multi-player

One of the best features of this game is the crossplay feature which means you can enjoy the ultimate basketball experience in NBA 2K24 on the PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles. Players can compete with or against players from around the world in co-op matches, online tournaments, or even casual pick-up games.

Verdict

Without doubt, the best basketball game there is. Incredible, immersive graphics plus all your favorite players and teams to choose from. This game gets you closer to the action than ever before.

Basketbull

While it may not feature any NBA stars, Basketbull is an online casino slot game that will appeal to everyone, not just basketball fans. This five reel, twenty-five pay line video slot game designed by Real Time Gaming is a lot of fun.

Graphics

The game takes place on a basketball court with a Bull against an English Bulldog. The other game symbols include a Cow Cheerleader, Ram Referee, Basketballs, Basketball Nets, Milk Cartons, plus the usual poker card number and letter symbols.

Basketbull facts:

• Reels: 5
• Paylines: 25
• Progressive jackpot
• RTP (return to player ratio): 95

Features

The Wild symbol is a Bull which can change into whatever symbol you need to make a winning line, plus there’s also a cool Scattered Basketball symbol which can pop up anywhere to score you a win.

An auto-Play option is a great feature and makes life a lot easier, while a bonus game provides plenty of extra chances to win some money.

Verdict

Basketbull is a simple but fun game that’s a perfect way to relax and spend some leisure time. Throw in the chance to win some cash and you’ve got yourself a great basketball game.

NBA Live Mobile

NBA LIVE Mobile season 8 features a new and improved user interface, updated Jerseys, Courts, Player Cards and Reveal Animations, plus a whole lot more. Developed by Electronic Arts, it’s the official mobile game of the NBA.

NBA events and Campaigns are available to compete in all year round, giving you the chance to build and maintain an elite roster. Every week brings new tournaments that offer new content, stories, and events.

The game has all the top teams and players you’d expect, and features impressive graphics that add to the immersive nature of the game. Controls are easy to pick and there’s even an online multiplayer mode that allows you to go head-to-head with players from around the world.

Verdict

This game is great for playing on the go and has plenty of features to keep you entertained and want to put the hours in as you build your team and skills. Plus, it’s free, so if NBA 2K 24 is out of your price range, this is a great, budget friendly alternative.

If you enjoy playing video games and you’re a big basketball fan, then what are you waiting for? Check out one of these games and get yourself on court.