NBA 2K11
About the Game
This release in 2K Sports ' long-running NBA 2K basketball series touts Michael Jordan as the cover athlete, and builds a number of challenges around his career. This is in addition to a series of improvements to game modes like My Player and The Association, as well as a new dribbling and animation mechanic. Jordan's involvement is maximized from the start, with four modes based around Jordan's career.
Gameplay & Core Systems
The "Jordan Challenge" has players control Michael in ten highlight games through his career. players must successfully recreate Jordan's real-life performance in the virtual scenario. In Quick Game mode, players can select eight different years of Jordan-led Chicago Bulls squads, and pit them against current-day rosters. Players can control a rookie Jordan in "MJ: Create a Legend" mode, and guide him through a modern-day career in the NBA. Finally, players are awarded pairs of Air Jordans for in-game achievements.
Standout Features
- Iso-Motion: 2K11 features revised "Iso-Motion" dribbling controls, allowing players to perform fancy moves with combinations of the right stick and trigger.
- Shot Stick: Players can also use the "Shot Stick" controls for analog control over their shot and release, as well as their drive to the basket.
- Alternatively, players can use the face buttons for basic pass/fake/shot controls, and engage icon passing to accurately select their target.
- On-The-Fly Coaching: An "On-The-Fly Coaching" system uses a series of branching menus on the controller's direction pad to change A.I. strategies, or call out new ones in multiplayer.
- Finally, a new "Shot Branching" system lets players adjust their shots when airborne, without being stuck to a canned animation.
- My Player: "My Player" mode allows players to create a new rookie and take him through a career in the NBA.
- Off-court gameplay includes elements like talking to the press after a game (and picking responses from a few possible choices), communicate with your coach (such as asking for a trade), and gaining and managing product endorsements.
- Association: "Association" mode allows players to manage a team as both coach and GM, and gives control over scouting, assigning players, negotiating salaries, and the like.
Modes & Ways to Play
Players are encouraged to collect all the Air Jordans Michael wore through his career, and each gives a stat bonus when equipped by players's character. This year, a greater emphasis is put on team chemistry and player egos, similar to the relevant stats in "My Player" mode. Online, players can form clubs and leagues. Leagues are more dedicated multiplayer simulations of seasons, from draft to finals.
Player support includes Same/Split-Screen, Co-Op, Free-for-all / One-on-one (VS), Team, and 2-4 Players.
Presentation & Atmosphere
In addition, this system is a blanket term for improvements to the game's presentation. Players now reflect their real-world tendencies and emotions when applicable, crowds and chants are dynamic, stadiums and halftime shows are accurately represented, and commentary is more accurate and organic.
Display support includes HDTV 720p, HDTV 1080i, HDTV 1080p, and Widescreen (16 x 9). Audio support includes Custom Soundtracks and Dolby Digital.
