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NBA 2K17 is a single-player and multiplayer basketball simulation game. The game continues the NBA 2K series’ focus on professional basketball, allowing players to control officially licensed NBA teams, rosters, and arenas. The central aim is to recreate the sport with an emphasis on realism and strategy. Players can participate in full seasons, single exhibition games, or pursue individual careers while competing against either the computer or other players locally and online.
Gameplay emphasizes realistic basketball mechanics, with a control scheme that covers shooting, passing, dribbling, defensive positioning, and rebounding. Players manage shot timing, stamina, and tactical movement to succeed on the court. The game includes a wide range of play styles, with athletes distinguished by their skills, attributes, and physical abilities. Advanced mechanics such as post moves, pick-and-roll execution, and defensive rotations contribute to the depth of the simulation.
Progression features several modes. MyCareer places the player in the role of a custom-created athlete rising through professional ranks, with matches, training sessions, and career decisions shaping the trajectory. Experience points are earned to upgrade attributes and develop the character’s skill set. MyTeam revolves around collecting digital trading cards to assemble a personalized roster, balancing player chemistry, contracts, and strategies in both offline and online competitions. Franchise-style management is offered in MyGM and MyLeague, where team owners can oversee trades, draft picks, budgets, and organizational decisions over multiple seasons.
Secondary systems enhance immersion beyond the court. MyCareer incorporates off-court interactions and story sequences, with branching dialogue and choices that influence sponsorship deals and relationships with teammates. Customization allows extensive control over appearance, play style, and player equipment. MyPark and online Pro-Am modes create shared environments where custom characters compete in casual streetball games or organized five-on-five tournaments.
Platform features include support for online matchmaking, seasonal updates to reflect real-world team changes, and the ability to carry over progression across different game modes. The presentation replicates televised NBA broadcasts, with commentary, halftime analysis, and pre-game introductions.