NBA 2K3 (Xbox)

• Platform:   Xbox
• ELSPA Minimum Age: 3
• Media: Video Game

Like NFL 2K3, NBA 2K3 is presented in the patented ESPN style. The game has all the sights and sounds of the NBA: the pomp and circumstance of pre-game introductions, accurate arena re-creations, realistic player animations and sizes, and fluid dribbling and shooting (including crossover moves and the ability to change shot direction in midair). All of this is accentuated with special touches such as alley-oops, tipped shots, the ability to make passes on the fly, fierce rebounding battles under the basket, and the added drama and excitement of the ball bouncing off the rim before it either falls in or goes awry.

NBA 2K3 offers a host of moves and modes on either side of the ball, with 25 offensive and 10 defensive plays from which to choose. Throw in fully customizable strategy options--everything from player clutch factor to computer shot tendencies, plus all types of shot percentages and fouls--and it's easy to create the ideal matchup and game environment. The limitless roster manager feature also ensures that league and franchise modes will keep from getting stale.

Street mode offers a break from the grind of NBA play, allowing you to go two-on-two or all the way up to five-on-five in nine playgrounds and gyms. Pick your favourite players from current teams or choose greats from the 50s through the 80s and go at it as the Ballers vs the Ringers. Street even features requisite trash talk such as "Yeah! You like that?" and grunts backed with "Get some!" --Larry White

Manufacturer's Description
NBA 2K3 powers forward with the kind of improvement that only results from an off-season dedicated to perfection. Imagine jump shots so real that players actually adjust their movements in midair based on distance from the hoop and defensive pressure; a passing touch that gives you the control to skirt a defender or start a fast break; and dribble moves that let you jab left, rock right, cross over, spin and much more. It's all happening in NBA 2K3. No other game delivers the physical element of basketball like this: accurate impact from collisions, especially hard fouls and authoritative dunks; shot blocking with emphasis on precise hand-to-ball contact; and the ability to lunge for the loose ball, even if it means ending up on some celebrity's lap. With commentators that analyse strategy, cut-scenes portraying lifelike player interaction, uniforms that move like real fabric and a brand-new ESPN broadcast system that wraps it all together, NBA 2K3 provides the complete NBA experience.

• PC & Video Games > Games