NBA 2K22 is undoubtedly the gold standard when it comes to basketball videogames. With its lifelike graphics, realistic gameplay and deep narrative, it is easy to see why it has been so popular for over two decades. But what if you’re looking for something different? Here is a list of ten games like NBA 2K22 that could offer a different experience for basketball fans.
1. NBA Live
NBA Live is a long-running series of basketball games developed by Electronic Arts. While it may not have the same depth and complexity as NBA 2K22, it is still a great game in its own right. The game has a more arcade-style feel, with faster-paced action and more exaggerated player animations. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an in-depth career mode and an online multiplayer mode. The soundtrack is also varied and features a mix of hip-hop and electronic music.
2. NBA Street
NBA Street is another long-running series of basketball games developed by Electronic Arts. It is a much wilder and over-the-top experience compared to NBA 2K22. It features some of the best-known players from the NBA and has an exaggerated art-style and over-the-top presentation. It also has a unique gameplay style that places more emphasis on combining special moves, tricks and dunks for maximum effect. The soundtrack also features some of the biggest names in hip-hop, making it an altogether unique basketball experience.
3. NBA Jam
Developed by Midway Games, NBA Jam is a classic arcade-style basketball game. It has a much more exaggerated art style than NBA 2K22, with players being depicted as caricatures of their real-life counterparts. The game also features a wide variety of special moves and power-ups that help to add to the over-the-top atmosphere. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and the game has a timeless appeal that has seen it be re-released on many platforms since its initial release in 1993.
4. NBA 2K Playgrounds 2
NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 is a sequel to the popular over-the-top arcade style basketball game. It features fast-paced and over-the-top action, with a unique art style that looks like a mix of real-life athletes and cartoon characters. It also features a unique mix of street basketball rules, with games only featuring three players a side, and allows for multiple power-ups and special moves that help to add to the fun. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and a career mode that lets you create your own character and team.
5. Street Hoops
Street Hoops is a basketball game developed by Activision. It features some of the best-known players from the NBA, and has an exaggerated art style and over-the-top presentation. It also has a unique gameplay style that places more emphasis on combining special moves, tricks and dunks for maximum effect. The soundtrack also features some of the biggest names in hip-hop and rap, making it an altogether unique basketball experience. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and an in-depth career mode.
6. Inside Drive
Inside Drive is a basketball game developed by Microsoft Game Studios. It is unique in that it is the only basketball game to combine the three major aspects of the sport: offense, defense and special teams. This allows for a unique and varied experience, where each play can have a different outcome. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and the game has an in-depth career mode.
7. NBA 2K Online
NBA 2K Online is an online version of the popular basketball game NBA 2K. It allows for more in-depth multiplayer experiences, with the option to play with up to thirty friends. The game also features a wide variety of game types, from one-on-one matchups to tournament play. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and a career mode that allows you to create your own player and team.
8. NBA Ballers
NBA Ballers is a basketball game developed by Midway Games. It features a unique mix of real-life players, exaggerated art style and over-the-top gameplay. It also allows for varied and unique experiences, with each game having a different outcome depending on the combination of special moves and dunks used. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and an in-depth career mode.
9. NBA Street Homecourt
NBA Street Homecourt is the follow up to the popular basketball game NBA Street. It features some of the best-known players from the NBA, and has an exaggerated art style and over-the-top presentation. It also has a unique mix of street basketball rules, with games only featuring three players a side. The soundtrack also features some of the biggest names in hip-hop, making it an altogether unique basketball experience. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and an in-depth career mode.
10. NBA Inside Drive 2004
NBA Inside Drive 2004 is an updated version of the popular basketball game Inside Drive. It allows for more varied and unique experiences, with each game having a different outcome depending on the combination of special moves used. It also features an in-depth career mode and an online multiplayer mode. In terms of similarity with NBA 2K22, there is an online multiplayer mode and an in-depth career mode.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to try something new or just want to switch up your basketball game play, this list of ten games like NBA 2K22 offers something for everyone. Each game has its own unique art style, soundtrack and gameplay mechanics, offering a different experience for basketball fans.