The classic sports game NBA Jam was released in 1993 and since then it has become a fan favorite amongst basketball fans and gamers alike. With it’s easy-to-learn controls and fast-paced action, it’s easy to see why. But what if you’re looking for something a bit different? If that’s the case, you’ve come to the right place! Below we will look at 10 games that are similar to NBA Jam in some way, and discuss the differences and similarities between them. So let’s get started!
1. NBA Street Vol. 2
NBA Street Vol. 2 is a 3-on-3 basketball game for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. It features some of the same fast-paced action as NBA Jam, but places the emphasis more on fast-paced acrobatics than straightforward basketball. As the game progresses, players can build their street rep and pick up new moves to unlock. Despite the emphasis on acrobatics and moves, the game also has a fair bit of strategy, as you want to pick the right moves and combinations to maximize your score. When it comes to similarities and differences between NBA Street Vol. 2 and NBA Jam, both feature fast-paced action and some similarities when it comes to moves and combos. However, Street Vol. 2 places more emphasis on showboating and spectacular acrobatics, which is something that NBA Jam does not have.
2. Backyard Basketball
Backyard Basketball is a colourful game for the PlayStation 2, Game Boy Advance and GameCube. It’s a lighthearted take on basketball, with a selection of real NBA players appearing as kids. The game features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, with the addition of some mini-games and power-ups. The main focus of Backyard Basketball is to have fun, and it’s perfect for younger gamers looking for a more lighthearted take on the sport. The similarities between Backyard Basketball and NBA Jam are mostly on the surface. Both are basketball games with a fast-paced arcade-style of play. However, Backyard Basketball is much more lighthearted and family-friendly, and the addition of power-ups and mini-games give it a unique twist.
3. NBA Playgrounds
NBA Playgrounds is another fast-paced arcade-style basketball game for the PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and PC. It features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, with the addition of some special moves and power-ups. It’s also a more up-to-date game than NBA Jam, with updated players and teams from the current NBA season. This game is great for basketball fans looking for a more modern take on arcade basketball. The similarities between NBA Playgrounds and NBA Jam are plain to see. Both feature the same fast-paced arcade-style basketball gameplay. However, NBA Playgrounds is more modern, with updated players and teams, as well as special moves and power-ups.
4. NBA Hoopz
NBA Hoopz is a fast-paced basketball game developed by Midway Games for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. Like many games of its kind, it features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, but with an emphasis on flashy moves and power-ups. The game also features an innovative two-on-two mode which can be quite tactical. The similarities between NBA Hoopz and NBA Jam are quite clear. Both feature the same fast-paced arcade-style of play and flashy moves. However, Hoopz places more emphasis on power-ups and the two-on-two mode adds a new tactical layer to the game.
5. NBA Ballers
NBA Ballers is a fast-paced basketball game for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. It features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, but with an emphasis on career progression and flashy moves. The game also features a unique story mode which can be quite engaging. When it comes to similarities and differences between NBA Ballers and NBA Jam, the latter is more focused on fast-paced arcade-style basketball, while the former has a more involved career mode and flashy moves. Both feature the same basic rules, however.
6. NBA Jam: Tournament Edition
NBA Jam: Tournament Edition is an updated version of the classic game. It was released on the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo and Game Gear. This version of the game features improved graphics and added features, such as four-player support and tournament mode. It also includes updated rosters from the 1993-94 season. The similarities between NBA Jam: Tournament Edition and the original game are obvious. Both feature the same fast-paced arcade-style of play, with improved graphics and updated rosters from the 1993-94 season. However, the Tournament Edition has added features such as four-player support and tournament mode.
7. NBA Street
NBA Street is another fast-paced 3-on-3 basketball game for the PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube. It features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, but with an emphasis on showboating and acrobatics. As the game progresses, players can pick up new moves to unlock and build their street rep. The similarities between NBA Street and NBA Jam are quite clear. Both feature fast-paced action, showboating and a selection of moves. However, NBA Street places more emphasis on acrobatic moves and showboating, while NBA Jam is more focused on straightforward basketball.
8. Slam City with Scottie Pippen
Slam City with Scottie Pippen is a fast-paced basketball game for the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo. It features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, with an added emphasis on sequential moves and combos. The game also features the voice and likeness of basketball legend Scottie Pippen. The similarities between Slam City with Scottie Pippen and NBA Jam are clear. Both feature fast-paced action and a selection of moves. However, Slam City places an emphasis on sequential moves and combos, while NBA Jam is more focused on straightforward basketball.
9. NBA Hangtime
NBA Hangtime is a fast-paced basketball game for the Nintendo 64 and Super Nintendo. Like many games of its kind, it features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, but with an emphasis on power-ups and special moves. The game also features an innovative turbo mode which can be quite exciting. The similarities between NBA Hangtime and NBA Jam are quite clear. Both feature the same fast-paced arcade-style of play and selection of moves. However, Hangtime places more emphasis on power-ups and special moves, as well as an innovative turbo mode.
10. NBA Jam Extreme
NBA Jam Extreme is a game for the PlayStation and Sega Saturn. It features the same basic rules as NBA Jam, but with an emphasis on moves and combos. The game also incorporates an innovative 3D engine which gives it a unique look and feel. When it comes to similarities and differences between NBA Jam Extreme and the original game, the former adds an emphasis on moves and combos and has a unique 3D engine. Both feature the same fast-paced arcade-style of play.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of the classic NBA Jam, then you may want to take a look at the games listed above. While they may differ slightly in terms of emphasis or presentation, they all feature the same fast-paced action and excitement. Whether you’re looking for a more modern take on the game or something a bit more family-friendly, these games have something for everyone.