NBA Live 06

 PlayStation 2
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
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  1. IGN
    90
    This is my favorite two-player sports game of the year so far. The Superstar moves really change the way you play the game, and for the better, as for the first time in years you can really tell the difference between players like Shaq and Eric Dampier.
  2. GameSpy
    90
    Although there are a few problems with the Freestyle Superstar system, it's still one of the most innovative elements we've ever seen in an NBA game.
  3. GameZone
    89
    The game modes are a real treat, particularly NBA All-Star Weekend and the wonderfully addictive Dynasty Mode.
  5. eToychest
    88
    This is the best offering EA has created in many years. The gameplay isn’t perfect, but the addition of superstar moves makes it extremely entertaining.
  6. Worth Playing
    86
    If you are looking for a completely new NBA experience, this is not the right game for you. If, however, you just want a new game with updated rosters and are curious about the ins and outs of the superstar abilities, then this might be the title for you.
  7. PSM Magazine
    85
    Aside from "Fight Night," there isn't a better two-player sports game than "NBA Live 06."[Nov 2005, p.78]
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  8. Next Level Gaming
    83
    NBA Live '06 gives you a helluva good game; solid on both sides of the ball. On the downside, there isn't as much innovation as you might be hoping for.
  9. PSX Extreme
    83
    The freestyle superstar moves are nice, but the other new stuff, like hiring staff, online dunk contests, and the inclusion of "NBA Live 95" aren’t worth shelling out fifty bucks for if you own last year’s game.
  10. GamePro
    80
    It pumps up the star power with plenty of show, but Superstar Freestyle doesn't ignore the go. Whether your real-life NBA team is headed for playoff stardom or a ticket to the lottery, NBA Live should make the 2006 just a little more enjoyable.
  11. Maxim Online
    80
    Once on the court, you discover it's easy to master the fast break and hard to hit a jumpshot, though play moves smoothly enough you won't mind as the bricks pile up.
  12. 1UP
    80
    The Superstar control sets will ensure that each game has a lengthy highlight reel while keeping the gameplay fast and fun. Fundamental issues with the game and its key features keep it out of the upper echelon of basketball titles.
  13. GameSpot
    77
    The Live series in its current state is more akin to an aged veteran who's hung on too long (for instance, Patrick Ewing with the Supersonics in 2000), as opposed to a longtime superstar who's at the height of his game.
  14. Game Over Online
    77
    While NBA Live 06 makes a couple of steps forward with the Freestyle Superstar Controls, it manages to make a couple steps backward at the same time.
  15. Detroit Free Press
    75
    "NBA 2K6" is the better game for pure basketball simulation lovers.
  16. Game Informer
    75
    EA is definitely focusing on an area of the sport that I feel that all developers should be, but the series has fallen far behind "NBA 2K6" in nearly every category. [Nov 2005, p.145]
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  17. Armchair Empire
    75
    Even though NBA Live 06 apparently uses a new rendering engine, the graphics are pretty average.
  18. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    73
    The camera doesn't swing around fast enough after a change of possession, causing some turnovers and missed fast-break opportunities. Plus, the dynasty mode, slam-dunk contest, and three-point shoot-out have all basically gone untouched.
  19. Computer and Video Games
    70
    EA's new graphics engine makes a difference too. Things are noticeably sharper and more free-flowing, meaning that the frenetic on-court movement of players doesn't get lost inside your PS2.
  20. Official Playstation 2 Magazine UK
    70
    An enjoyable update, but one that only the most ardent of fans will appreciate. [Dec 2005, p.128]
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  21. AceGamez
    70
    It's a decent attempt, but it lacks what it used to have, and if you own the 2004 or 2005 version then just stick with them and trade the appropriate players to the correct teams.
    All this publication's reviews
  22. Gaming Age
    67
    For gamers who just want to shoot, slam, and take it to guys in the paint, this game will more than meet your expectations. If you are looking for a game filled with strategy and intense pressure, you may want to get your hoops action elsewhere.
  23. Game Revolution
    67
    It’s fine, decent, entirely competent, but who wants that again? We want bite, and even though this game has Marv Albert, it barely manages to break last year's skin.
  24. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    60
    One has to wonder if Live 06's mostly cosmetic changes are worth $50 this year. [Nov 2005, p.115]
    All this publication's reviews
  25. IncGamers
    55
    Maybe the game should be renamed NBA Live Roster Update as it's basically the same game as NBA Live 05 with the up to date player transfers.

Awards & Rankings

59
#59 Best PS2 Game of 2005
81
#81 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2005

User Reviews

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User Score
7.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 34 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 34
  3. Negative: 9 out of 34
  1. homer4president
    Nov 18, 2015
    8
    NBA Live 06 continues the tradition of a solid EA Sports basketball franchise. There are still some small issues to contend with, but the gameNBA Live 06 continues the tradition of a solid EA Sports basketball franchise. There are still some small issues to contend with, but the game is good enough to overshadow most of them. The Freestyle Superstars are a great addition to the gameplay, and online dunk contests will always be fun. It is another step forward for the NBA Live series. Now I can't wait to see what they do with a next gen system!… Full Review »
  2. emlugo123
    Feb 27, 2015
    8
    The players seem disproportional and the game feels really arcadish. But I still had fun in this game! I wish dunking was easier in this gameThe players seem disproportional and the game feels really arcadish. But I still had fun in this game! I wish dunking was easier in this game though, as getting a perfect score in the Dunk Contest is nearly impossible.… Full Review »
  3. creptor
    Jan 3, 2011
    8
    Great game with the only bad part being is that sometimes when you make the hoop it doesn't record the new basket for a point. Still very funGreat game with the only bad part being is that sometimes when you make the hoop it doesn't record the new basket for a point. Still very fun and I'd suggest it for any Basket-ball fan.… Full Review »
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