NBA 2K21

 PlayStation 4
User Score
0.9

Overwhelming dislike- based on 546 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 546
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 546
  3. Negative: 500 out of 546
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  1. Maranho7
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    Too many mistakes in shot icon, until the producers fix this the score is 0
  2. Cuban_kid15
    Sep 8, 2020
    2
    This game once again dissapointed Its almost as if 2K doesn’t want you to have fun and wants to create a much bigger skill gap for you to even be decent at the game.

    If you dont get a perfect green jumpshot on a three you can forget making it. ITS NOT POSSIBLE The game is not fluid at all with gameplay and not fun when you are bricking every jumpshot even if you are wide open. 2K has    This game once again dissapointed Its almost as if 2K doesn’t want you to have fun and wants to create a much bigger skill gap for you to even be decent at the game.

    If you dont get a perfect green jumpshot on a three you can forget making it. ITS NOT POSSIBLE
    The game is not fluid at all with gameplay and not fun when you are bricking every jumpshot even if you are wide open. 2K has taken huge step backs the past two years trying to create bigger skill gaps when forgetting the whole reason we all fell in love with the game in the first place. MAKING BUCKETS If you dont have 24/7 hours to play like a streamer then you can forget having any competitive my player in the game get your wallet out because they are going to bait you into micro transactions for sure.    … Expand
  3. DinaSousa
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    Everytime I buy a sports game, it seems like its last years version and has weird money spending schemes attached to it. Do yourself a favor and avoid this year. maybe every year to be honest.
  4. mbandzzz
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    bro the game is dead trash. the shot meter is wack af like no matter what part you hit the ball still doesn’t go in like this is wack bro, i spent 100 and for what cuz i didn’t even get all the pre order bonus that was supposed to be included. i’m returning my game and getting my money back. such a waste
  5. Regant2000
    Sep 8, 2020
    3
    what a load of tosh, gameplay is horrific and laggy even with fast Internet, alot of people are complaining about gameplay being delayed, lots of people are also getting error codes for different game modes so they can't play even after doing some troubleshooting steps, game needs to be better, shooting is terrible and hardly anyone can get any greens in neighbourhood, sort it out 2k!
  6. Andr3
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    As a long term 2K Player and huge fan am more than disappointed by this years game. Its the worst of all time. Shooting, movement, everything is bad in this game. When a Cover Athlete tells a company their game is trash, there must be somethign very wrong with this game. DONT BUY IT, save your money and take your girl, family or friends out for a dinner / movie night instead.
  7. sundubone
    Sep 8, 2020
    0
    The game is too difficult.. straight up.

    I am an offline player and generally have only a couple hours to play the game daily. I play the myteam mode and the CPU opponent just destroys you in every game whether it's triple threat or domination or single player challenges. The initial cards you receive from the Mamba edition are piss poor that cannot shoot or make layups with. The    The game is too difficult.. straight up.

    I am an offline player and generally have only a couple hours to play the game daily. I play the myteam mode and the CPU opponent just destroys you in every game whether it's triple threat or domination or single player challenges. The initial cards you receive from the Mamba edition are piss poor that cannot shoot or make layups with. The rewards you receive for playing is not worth the time involved to get them. At this point, i wouldn't purchase the game unless you have ample time to learn how to shoot or have the patience losing to the CPU multiple times.    … Expand
  8. Garden777
    Sep 8, 2020
    4
    the worst version of 2k20. The shooting is terrible. No changes at all. The only good thing about the game is the mycarrer prelude with college and high school, the rest it isn't worth it
  9. GirlGoneGamer
    Sep 7, 2020
    8
    I’m giving this game a solid 8, I don’t care what the madden fanboys have to say about this game. They are too stupid to realize their football game is trash; and wanna review bomb this game. The only issues I have with this game is the shot meter and the stamina drain. Other than that the game is fun and is a little better than what 2k20 was and improved on something’s
  10. Frandawg
    Sep 7, 2020
    5
    The game definitely isn’t bad enough to get review bombed like it currently is, but it’s disappointing that a series that used to be absolutely teeming with innovation and pushing the boundaries of what made sports games great has become so stale. Unfortunately seems to suffer from this pre-nextgen syndrome where annual releases aren’t given a proper update. Everything is fine. Which isThe game definitely isn’t bad enough to get review bombed like it currently is, but it’s disappointing that a series that used to be absolutely teeming with innovation and pushing the boundaries of what made sports games great has become so stale. Unfortunately seems to suffer from this pre-nextgen syndrome where annual releases aren’t given a proper update. Everything is fine. Which is about as good as it gets really. Calling it nba 2k20 1.5 is probably a little off the mark, considering there haven’t been enough upgrades to warrant that Tagline...

    One issue I do have, however, is the inconsistency with shooting. It was pretty bad in 2k20 but has becomes even worse in this iteration. When you make shots vs when you don’t makes absolutely no sense. You miss sitters inside the rim when you’re timing is perfect and you’re barely covered, but make a 3 pointer on the fly when your timing is off and you’re far more covered. Makes the experience quite frustrating overall.    … Expand
  11. Jacks320
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    The 2K franchise needs to put more effort into there games. They want to overcharge for low quality, this game should be $30 instead of $60 and this is based on the minimum enhancements made.
  12. Romvng
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    The shooting in this game is broken. Even if shot is near perfect release it’s a guaranteed brick...Defense is constantly in your face from the start of the game to the end..The cpu backpedaling is faster than my driving down the lane with the ball...nothing new compared to 2k20 and if anything, they took out more stuff..MyCareer is about 30 minutes of useless cutscenes and once in the NBAThe shooting in this game is broken. Even if shot is near perfect release it’s a guaranteed brick...Defense is constantly in your face from the start of the game to the end..The cpu backpedaling is faster than my driving down the lane with the ball...nothing new compared to 2k20 and if anything, they took out more stuff..MyCareer is about 30 minutes of useless cutscenes and once in the NBA it’s nothing new, they took out after game interviews..Constantly missing open and-one layups and the mid air passing is always overthrown, as if someone in the nba shouldn’t at least know how to pass the ball 10 feet..I’m a pure shooter and even when my takeover is active I’ll brick open 3’s..game is trash.… Expand
  13. Soulfuljyl
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    biggest cash grab ever, been playing 2k since 2k7 with no money spent, this years version entices you to start up myteam and straight away faced with extreme difficulty of scoring a basket, urging you to spend VC or MT to open packs, first weekly challenge is against way higher tier players than your line up and force you to open at least 4 packs to even start the challenge, I created thisbiggest cash grab ever, been playing 2k since 2k7 with no money spent, this years version entices you to start up myteam and straight away faced with extreme difficulty of scoring a basket, urging you to spend VC or MT to open packs, first weekly challenge is against way higher tier players than your line up and force you to open at least 4 packs to even start the challenge, I created this account purely for this cash grab slot machine, absolutely disgusted by this years game.… Expand
  14. Blakey123
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    2k20 copy and paste. Completely the same graphics, animations, badges. This game is a complete cash grab, which is typical of 2k interactive. The game is centred around borderline forcing players to buy VC on-top of its 60 dollar price tag. the game is also littered with advertisements. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME!!!
  15. neviusnc
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    This game is beyond repulsive and it's your duty as an informed consumer to not buy this cash grabbing pile of dog **** The company is beyond gross and has zero morals other than an almighty dollar. I dream to see the day where they are all unemployed and shunned from the industry for their slime tactics. Grotesque human beings
  16. Dmoney86374
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Nothin new added lazy entry to an untherwise wise great series. I think they should have added a completely new park and fixed my league everything besides that is nearly the same. Counting playing nba 2k20 and wait for next gen this game on current gen is the exact same.… Expand
  17. Gongbanza
    Sep 7, 2020
    5
    Same thing as the last 5 entries, Mycareer is okay not as good as last year's, and the soundtrack is good.
  18. drizzydrodrew
    Sep 7, 2020
    8
    Okay, where to begin. First of all I am a massive fanboy of 2k and have been buying since the goat 2k11. I have noticed the substantial dip in quality and lack of updates from the 2k franchise for some time now. I remember the days when 2k11 2k12 and 2k13 were such fantastic values in terms of gameplay and overall content compared to other sports games at the time. Now it seems that inOkay, where to begin. First of all I am a massive fanboy of 2k and have been buying since the goat 2k11. I have noticed the substantial dip in quality and lack of updates from the 2k franchise for some time now. I remember the days when 2k11 2k12 and 2k13 were such fantastic values in terms of gameplay and overall content compared to other sports games at the time. Now it seems that in order to play a AAA sports game you have to deal with the now-greedy companies of EA and 2k. This is simply something one must come to terms with when buying each year's new edition.
    I personally have not purchased a 2k since 2k17, and I thought that 2017 did a phenomenal job with the dribble mechanics and the shot meter. I did get to play 2k20 for awhile with gamepass and had an enjoyable time on MyTeam. Yet would not have considered paying over 20$ for that game. I completely faded 2k18 and 2k19 as they just looked not fun to play when compared to 2k17 gameplay.

    This year, I didn't know what to expect but I was getting absurdly impatient and wanting to jump in to a new sports game. and after witnessing the **** show that EA released with Madden 21 it became apparent that it was 2k or bust. I decided to preorder the game in hopes of developing a dope MyTeam over the next few months. My expectations were tempered but I did at least want to enjoy the gameplay and be able to grind towards my favorite players.

    I have had the game for 3 days now, and I can say that I am mostly pleased with the entire package of the game. There still is quite a lot of content and ways to play the game. Anyone here is likely not new 2k so you know exactly what to expect in terms of gamemodes.

    Let's talk about what is causing such a division in reviews from this community. THE SHOOTING.
    Yes it is definitely true that the dribbling and shooting mechanics have been tampered with. I feel like in the long run these will feel normal and potentially even preferred. I know that I had a few rage moments during my first few hours of play, seeing as the dribble moves and shooting combos take time to master and do not feel intuitive. The shooting is much much much less forgiving and it will take practicing your favorite players releases and figuring out their hot spots as you will have to run picture perfect plays to get them open looks from outside or set enough picks to blow by the defender for a layup. Layups and shooting in the paint is overpowered while outside shooting takes immense skill and patience. Get it?

    Yes the skill gap has gotten a substantialy steeper and yes the CPU players play like Monstars from Space Jam, but I truly believe that overtime a lot of these issues will get smoothed out and players will adjust to the new mechanics and whatever gamestyle that 2k seems to want to reward. I am not sure why 2k would want to punish the casual gamer, but this game is built for serious hoopers and experienced 2kers. Which honestly is fine with me, I love technical and skill driven games.

    All I know is that I can take the good with the bad seeing as its so early in the release, and I can say that I have had a ton of fun with the new MyCareer story and always love MyTeam. I actually enjoy the challenge of shooting and it really allows people with legit basketball IQ to thrive. When you do dominate it feels earned and its something to savor when you go on a shooting streak. This may not be popular opinion but I am fine with struggling upfront to learn new mechanics if it makes the gameplay more balanced and enjoyable in the long run.    … Expand
  19. Game20
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    No fun, they first make impossible to score with shooters and all driving archétype so there is no fun attacking and now they patched the shooters and even at the easiest difficulty every IA makes the shot
  20. Goodgamebrojt
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Worst game ever I’m sooo mad I bought the game my career sucks no cut scenes at all no awards cut scene nothing just a dumb story before you reach the nba then it’s over. We have alll been robbed if you haven’t bought it yet don’t buy it.
  21. Tron0304
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Before 2k said NBA 2k21 was coming out? I thought they were going to delay the launch of the game because the NBA season wasn't over. No team has been crowned champion yet. The NBA draft hasn't even happened yet. So I thought they would delay the release until the season was over? Wrong!!! I already knew they weren't going to put much effort into my career mode or anything else. Expect forBefore 2k said NBA 2k21 was coming out? I thought they were going to delay the launch of the game because the NBA season wasn't over. No team has been crowned champion yet. The NBA draft hasn't even happened yet. So I thought they would delay the release until the season was over? Wrong!!! I already knew they weren't going to put much effort into my career mode or anything else. Expect for the neighborhood and park. But my career and my team are my two favorite modes. In fact, there wasn't even a trailer released for my career mode. I already know that after you finish the story and start playing in a real NBA game. There isn't much else to do in that mode but grind it out in order to make your player better. You can do what everyone else does or what the game wants to do. Which is spend money on VC in order to get better. What 2k did was make small minor adjustments. Instead of creating new modes or having new commentary for play by play. They decided to "adjust" the shooting in the game. Like shooting was a problem in the first place. I've seen other people review for this game. The people who review this game either never played an NBA 2K game before or have little interest in playing sports games at all. Sites like Forbes or IGN will give this game a 7 or 8. I would say hold off on buying this game until 2122 comes out. The only other thing that I can say is that the next gen of this game better be worth it.… Expand
  22. Biglala
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Games straight garbage only bought because i got 2k20 free thought it would be decent cant make open buckets even 3 feet from the rim terrible game first and last 2k game i purchase
  23. Jnelrod
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    This game is terrible. Myplayer has a 73 mid range and 70 3 pointer yet he couldn’t throw a rock in the ocean. MyCareer shooting is fine but when I get into competitive modes it may be easier to do quantum physics then make a jumpshot. This game has been the worst experience I’ve ever had playing a video game.
  24. Tylernoll
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Christ, I bought this game 5 years ago. The amount of greed from this game is just **** disgusting, especially marketing towards kids without explicit warnings. **** off 2k. Also using a deadbolt man to sell more copies is **** despicable
  25. Jayk12TTW
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Same game since 2k18, absolutely no changes for the best, the only thing that changes smh is how much worse it becomes year by year. Good job Ronnie, suck a big D.
  26. DropDeadShotty
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Ronnie, bro, stop giving people the same game every year. Time for the community to speak up about how much of a fraud you are my man. Take that zero for giving us a copy-paste game.
  27. AngryRebel
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Trash... If u wanna spend over 300 bucks to play a game that has Crap gameplay then this is the Game for u.. Game is built to take your money. Save your money please, Dont be fooled by the other positive reviews and 2K saying they are working on a Fix. They knew it was broke when they released it
  28. smoovelai
    Sep 7, 2020
    4
    Very dissatisfied and disappointed.

    Would not recommend for the first time in this series existence.
  29. ungallegomas
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    Not funny. Worst game ever.
    If they don't make 3p easier i sell it.
    Mike Wang, wtf man
  30. sullyliam
    Sep 7, 2020
    1
    mycareer is ruined with this edition. Influenced too much by park. Can't hit a jumpshot without high attributes and badges. Trying to force you to buy vc just so you can hit a 3. Somehow made the nba but can't hit a 3. Ruined the rpg element of mycareer.
  31. nardokrazy
    Sep 5, 2020
    6
    It Very Good Game I do see the changes in gameplay I don't expect much from graphics but the gameplay is alot smoother than 20 l, shoot is high skill gap i was complaining alot but now messing with it even more i understand it and I will say gameplay has improved alot and I will enjoy this game for once this year snice 2k16, only way u give it a 10 is of they make the shot meter biggerIt Very Good Game I do see the changes in gameplay I don't expect much from graphics but the gameplay is alot smoother than 20 l, shoot is high skill gap i was complaining alot but now messing with it even more i understand it and I will say gameplay has improved alot and I will enjoy this game for once this year snice 2k16, only way u give it a 10 is of they make the shot meter bigger thats all I asked.… Expand
  32. rLhgT66a8VTGU
    Sep 7, 2020
    0
    I don't even understand how it's possible to release such kind of buggy **** 2K released 95% the same game as it was (cope of 2k20), but they've gone above and made it even worse. Bravo 2K, it's amazing piece of ****.

    Shot creator with mid-range rating 90+ can't make a shot in 2 meters from the basket without green release. In 99% situations when you make a good release it won't go to    I don't even understand how it's possible to release such kind of buggy **** 2K released 95% the same game as it was (cope of 2k20), but they've gone above and made it even worse. Bravo 2K, it's amazing piece of ****.

    Shot creator with mid-range rating 90+ can't make a shot in 2 meters from the basket without green release. In 99% situations when you make a good release it won't go to the basket. How come a park game can have 50+ missed shots, it's ridiculous. The worst version I ever played. Some of my friends are done and removed this ****    … Expand
  33. thomnewyorke
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    I am from South Korea and now I am writing reviews of 2K21 in every single Korean game communities to alert how fxxxed up this game is. This game is basically roster updated version of 2k20. Literally, nothing's changed in this game in every aspects. They rip you off over 60 dollars for a roster patch! I hope God judges 2K one day.
  34. aj587
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Literally copied and pasted. Before you would miss open ish layups most times, now you miss wide open jumpers most times. CPU goes 10-60 every game, we shoot like 35%. Only way to play now is cherry-picking and standing in paint. Even the latest hotfix didn’t work. Done with 2k.

    I’ve been legend in park and 90% win rate quick match online for a decade, worst 2k ever. Luka Doncic is still    Literally copied and pasted. Before you would miss open ish layups most times, now you miss wide open jumpers most times. CPU goes 10-60 every game, we shoot like 35%. Only way to play now is cherry-picking and standing in paint. Even the latest hotfix didn’t work. Done with 2k.

    I’ve been legend in park and 90% win rate quick match online for a decade, worst 2k ever.

    Luka Doncic is still tier 2 and Bam still Tier 3. All you need you know    … Expand
  35. KingAnt292
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This game is copy and paste of previous 2k games. They added ridiculous shooting mechanics. Which I don’t really care about. What I do care about is the micro transactions. I am tired of spending VC to have fun in a sport video game. This is honestly criminal and it is considered gambling. I am also am tired of my career player being capped as a ROLE PLAYER. I used to love my careerThis game is copy and paste of previous 2k games. They added ridiculous shooting mechanics. Which I don’t really care about. What I do care about is the micro transactions. I am tired of spending VC to have fun in a sport video game. This is honestly criminal and it is considered gambling. I am also am tired of my career player being capped as a ROLE PLAYER. I used to love my career because I had fun playing like a superstar. So, what if everybody is a 99 everything. Don’t you understand that although everyone is a 99 it neutralizes things. Now its about who can play team ball better, team defense, shoot better, and last IQ. Stop capping me.

    Take me back to the days of 2k14, 2k15 and last good 2k16. After that 2k has gotten worse and worse over the years. I’m honestly disappointed in the 2k community. All the 2k community cares about is themselves. Their views, even when the game got this bad they seem to pretend like its the best thing ever. For those of you wondering if you should buy 2k21. Don’t. My league and my gm is the exact same. My career and my team is micro transactions heavy. They literally just changed a little appearance and call it 2k21. We as a whole need to put pressure on that. How do we do that? Don’t buy the game. I understand thats the only basketball game we got. A suggestion is just stick with the current 2k you have. We have the power were the ones making them rich and so rich to the point that their cocky. They don’t care, so why should we care to buy it? So, quite frankly how can we blame 2k if the people we support are not pressuring them or using their voice to change the game.    … Expand
  36. Pyr0ManiaC
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This is NBA 2K20 with a worse shooting meter and worse shooting overall. The isn't fun at all when you miss 80% of your shots. Layup and dunk fest.
  37. Games44un
    Sep 6, 2020
    8
    Don’t know what to think of the shot meter love or hate it is usually the response buts I think it’s great
  38. someactorkid
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    I haven't played an NBA game in a long time, so I decided to jump in this year. I find this game EXTREMELY difficult to play. I can't even outscore the other team in the training mode scrimmage on Rookie difficulty. It's really frustrating that there's no way to play an NBA game without extremely complex controls and frustrating handling. I don't be dipping into this market again.
  39. PollitoRubio22
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    NBA 2k21 is the definition of disappointing. The only reason they manage to keep making the same game every year is because they have no competition. Its the same gameplay but they made it worst. DONT BUY
  40. eliasadaime
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. nba 2k21 is a same copy and paste game with a 60$ update which basically its a nba 2k20 dlc mode and this is ridiculous the shoting bar is trash and the glitches is back DONT BUY!… Expand
  41. Tony_Rabbit
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    The only things thats a bigger joke than the disgusting monetisation scheme in this game is that fact that they are allowed to brand it as a new game when its clearly the same lazy mess that 2K20 was last year.
  42. Jake-Snake94
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Yet again another copy a pasted game except this time they completely ruined all the mechanics of the game as well.
  43. Jp3te
    Sep 6, 2020
    7
    People are overreacting about this game. It is not a blow you away game but make no mistake that this is a completely playable somewhat quality video game.
  44. Rj1394
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Worse in every way from the previous version and this has been an on Going trend since 2k16.
  45. baiaopires
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    It's just a bad copy of nba 2k20. Do not buy this piece of garbage. Just stick to your old nba 2k copy.
  46. Paulsen
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Angry with myself for supporting a company that knowingly trolls its supporters. Monopolies are never good and this is a prime example. 2k has become so big that they can get away with putting out straight garbage and they’ll still be fine afterwords. They basically copy and pasted 2k20 and somehow made the game worse. When your cover athlete is tweeting about how bad the shootingAngry with myself for supporting a company that knowingly trolls its supporters. Monopolies are never good and this is a prime example. 2k has become so big that they can get away with putting out straight garbage and they’ll still be fine afterwords. They basically copy and pasted 2k20 and somehow made the game worse. When your cover athlete is tweeting about how bad the shooting mechanics are, you know you have a problem. Sometimes I wonder if the mistakes this company makes are on purpose just to troll us.… Expand
  47. alexisss13
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Of course I didn't purchase this garbage, just rented. Same game for six whole years, but with a broken shooting mechanism. Don't forget about out beloved microtransactions. People should stop rewarding cow-milking companies like 2K and EA, by buying their gabarge recycled games.
  48. Bbdavis32
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    they did the complete opposite of pro basketball, nobody can shoot, everyone takes it at the rim. Can sit in the paint on defense because shooting is broke. Worst nba simulation of all time
  49. JockStar
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Anyone saying this game is good, is straight up lying to you. Another year, another copy and paste job. Seriously, if you consider getting this trash, you might as well buy NBA 2k18, 19, and 20. Trust me, there’s no difference.
  50. Drollzico
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This is, with no doubt, the worst 2k ever created. It's basically the same game as NBA2K20, but this year they were able to make it even worse. The prelude cutscenes run in 15 fps or lower, without mentioning the poor and garbage script, as like every year. MyCareer didn't change a bit and, besides, things like locker room, interviews and cutscenes with players or your friends before andThis is, with no doubt, the worst 2k ever created. It's basically the same game as NBA2K20, but this year they were able to make it even worse. The prelude cutscenes run in 15 fps or lower, without mentioning the poor and garbage script, as like every year. MyCareer didn't change a bit and, besides, things like locker room, interviews and cutscenes with players or your friends before and after the game are gone. MyTeam still looking more like a store then a game mode, just like last year, but at least it doesn't look like a casino anymore. Other game modes remains to be the same thing, no surprises.Now, the cherry of the cake of this garbage is the new shot meter. It's just too bad, it ruined the gameplay, nobody can make a single wide open shot, especially in the neighborhood , with all the delay and trash server stuff.… Expand
  51. ManiaKillerGR
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    the worst basketball game a company has ever released..every year the same things with no improvements.Just disgusting!!
  52. dpaudiophile
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Unless you like MyTeam, there is no reason to get this game. 2K21 is literally the exact same game as 2K20 but with a really dumb shot meter, some cosmetic changes, and a few new features in MyTeam (the mode where you give 2K your money to be decent). Especially with the next-gen games coming soon, and because your MyPlayer badge and attribute progression doesn't transfer over, there isUnless you like MyTeam, there is no reason to get this game. 2K21 is literally the exact same game as 2K20 but with a really dumb shot meter, some cosmetic changes, and a few new features in MyTeam (the mode where you give 2K your money to be decent). Especially with the next-gen games coming soon, and because your MyPlayer badge and attribute progression doesn't transfer over, there is literally no reason for anyone to get the current-gen NBA 2K21... again, unless you like giving 2K more of your money through MyTeam.

    Without the competition most sports games don't feel the need to try harder. We can see this with Madden NFL for the past several years now, and over the past couple years, NBA2K has been on the same mediocre level due to lack of competition. Don't buy this game in protest of 2K! it isn't fair that they try to rob millions of people every year. Here's to hoping NBA Live (the EA game) makes a comeback, or 2K21 on next-gen is a much better experience.    … Expand
  53. Azeriel
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    A garbage game as expected, NBA 2K20 3.0.

    Never asked for a refund from Sony before but this is probably the first time they honor my request.

    Save your headache, wait till it's deeply discounted or come to PSPlus for free. Smarten up and stop supporting these parasites.
  54. Zephyr0911
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This is a basketball game. But I can't shoot, the worst shooting system ever. I don't know how to shoot although I played HOF games in 2K20 without difficulties. The worst R-stick shooting system has also ruined intuitional pre-dribble moves.
  55. Bmax2224
    Sep 6, 2020
    1
    I wouldn't waste your money like I did suppose to be fun they made the shooting so bad you can't even have fun the 2k20 shot meter way better if you don't green your not hitting your shot horrible waste of 100 dollars
  56. Dmor
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    COPY AND PASTE: Game has been the same since 2K15. Honestly. No menu change since 2K17 just reskins. Same engine since 2K14 and will continue to use it into next gen. Literally some historic face scans havent changed since 2K9 and not to mention having to build a MyTeam every year just to lose all your progression the next year. Paying $60 for patches is not acceptable and now they'reCOPY AND PASTE: Game has been the same since 2K15. Honestly. No menu change since 2K17 just reskins. Same engine since 2K14 and will continue to use it into next gen. Literally some historic face scans havent changed since 2K9 and not to mention having to build a MyTeam every year just to lose all your progression the next year. Paying $60 for patches is not acceptable and now they're charging $70 for the little they already do? Sad. Get this game when its $2 on steam or when it is on your platform.… Expand
  57. Wedemboys
    Sep 6, 2020
    9
    This game is an upgrade from NBA 2K20, the gameplay has been upgraded and they have finally found a way to make the skill gap bigger with at what rate do the shots go in and so you need to have excellent release if you want to make jump shots consistently. The new comers to the game have been helped with this already when they changed the odds of making it bigger for rookie to all starThis game is an upgrade from NBA 2K20, the gameplay has been upgraded and they have finally found a way to make the skill gap bigger with at what rate do the shots go in and so you need to have excellent release if you want to make jump shots consistently. The new comers to the game have been helped with this already when they changed the odds of making it bigger for rookie to all star difficulties. MyTeam has many new features and although many people say it's pay to win you really cannot get that great of a team by spending that what you can get with grinding. Only thing that's not good about this game is the lack of improvements to the MyLeague and MyGM. MyCareer is good because you can finally play at college and high school. The neighborhood also looks good but they could have done more with how open space there is.… Expand
  58. Jamesscott555
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This game is completely broken in its current state. The biggest issue is the change to jumpshots. The new mechanic is so brutal most people literally cannot make a shot even when playing with Stephen Curry!!! The shot new meter is odd and very small, hard to see. Even when it looks like you got the slider dead center of the money spot 90% of the time it will still miss. The developmentThis game is completely broken in its current state. The biggest issue is the change to jumpshots. The new mechanic is so brutal most people literally cannot make a shot even when playing with Stephen Curry!!! The shot new meter is odd and very small, hard to see. Even when it looks like you got the slider dead center of the money spot 90% of the time it will still miss. The development team refuses to fix the issue despite being roasted on twitter! They are calling it a skill gap, its so bad that when playing online purple don't even defend the perimeter and just wait to rebound. Waiting for you to miss the shot because you know it's broken takes no skill. There are more issues. The same mechanic is used for layups so while more effective than jumpshots still not consistent at all even when wide open. Going for a rebound sometimes it will roll down your players back! There is a badge called clamps designed to keep you with an opponent on defense, not working. The servers are overloaded, I'm guessing because there isn't enough so there is horrible latency. I feel cheated out of $100 and wish i could go back in time to prevent myself from buying this game during a pandemic, i could have used that money elsewhere but thought it would take my mind off things but it's unbearable to play. Additionally a good portion of the community did not receive their pre-order bonus content. I feel like they are using paying customers as game testers instead of releasing a polished game. If you haven't already. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME!… Expand
  59. Thodwris1990
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    worst sports game eveer!!! its just another trash game from our least favorite 2k sports
  60. Drouul
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This Game is basically the third installment of 2k19. There are literally zero changes besides the shot meter and that you can`t hit a three to save your life. Still a greedy mess.
  61. Poppitmaster
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Worst sports game i have ever bought, im 34 and have seen some bad sports game in my day but nothing this bad. How anyone can say this is a good game or even bring himself to play it is beyond my comprehension. Absolute trash. 2k20 is pretty good, just play that. Save your money.
  62. GreyGhostAu
    Sep 6, 2020
    1
    Has a couple of new additions to MyTeam. XP system is a good inclusion, but due to no improvement and it being impossible to shoot even at an average % the game is not fun. Zero enjoyment here, worst NBA 2k I can remember, save your money
  63. Sullyy
    Sep 6, 2020
    3
    2k games have come a very long way and to give this game a rating of 0 is just unfair because the state of this game is way better then let’s say madden. This game has depth and it looks like they do care about the game but there just isn’t much more innovation they can do with this generation of consoles. Only complaint is gameplay which is the same year after year which would be fine if2k games have come a very long way and to give this game a rating of 0 is just unfair because the state of this game is way better then let’s say madden. This game has depth and it looks like they do care about the game but there just isn’t much more innovation they can do with this generation of consoles. Only complaint is gameplay which is the same year after year which would be fine if it played like 2k16 or even 2k17 but the fact that they keep this awful gameplay and neighborhood ruins it… Expand
  64. Landwriter
    Sep 6, 2020
    5
    It’s it a pretty good improvement from the last game don’t expect any major improvements but is still better than 2K20 but I can’t say it’s a good game necessarily it does have micro transactions and my team is still Basically a casino and the shooting is impossible but don’t be expected for a major game hopefully we will see that in 2K21 next Gen
  65. Hakee
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    I tried the shot meter I understand the skill gap etc however for the live of me it's too slow and not fast enough in being responsive online having to go 90 degree angle. I bought the last few 5 2k games however the only reason I bout this year's one was for the Kobe cover. That's it outer ideas going to Skip it
  66. GamersTV_ru
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    Comon 2K..... When you make at least 1 sumulation mode at NBA 2K ??? Same arcade every year. We tired about this !
  67. Marcus23sj
    Sep 6, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. dont buy it, waste of money. Horrible game. Dont buy dont buy..............… Expand
  68. IHATE2k
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This Game is **** trash. Who and the hell made this meter because they should be fired. Holy **** kys. The animations are worse than ever to. Not only that it’s pay to win how sad. Who ever gave this game a positive review is retarded and should stop sucking 2k’s dick.… Expand
  69. underthebag
    Sep 5, 2020
    1
    Game is trash shooting is broken feels like your playing middle school hoops, If your build is not a shooter you can't even hit mid range shots zero defense and not even an attempted closeout. I thought this was a SIm what pro player can't hit undefended shots?
  70. Kriss215
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Same as 2k20 but now can't shout in neighbourhood. I'm done with this trash
  71. FranciscoAS
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    The fact that they want up, players, to higher the prices up by 10 dollars explains how bad this company is when companies like cd project make a 5 or 6 year game (cyberpunk) and give it for free for next console. You should not buy this game for 60 or 70 or whatever, this is an update from older titles. IT IS ALWAYS THE SAME **** GAME.
  72. aamer76
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Literally the same game as 2k20. Nothing has changed except for the park aesthetic and the shot meter which is horrible. Horrible cash grab feeding players the exact same game from last year and expecting 60 dollars.
  73. Anthonypeterss
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Was excited for the game pre ordered CURRENT gen 100 dollars entered in codes and have not received any of my bonus so now the game is not even playable and I haven’t even played it at all and now I’m already behind just sitting here waiting all day spent hours looking online what’s wrong this company is one the richest gaming companies yet they have terrible launches every year and thisWas excited for the game pre ordered CURRENT gen 100 dollars entered in codes and have not received any of my bonus so now the game is not even playable and I haven’t even played it at all and now I’m already behind just sitting here waiting all day spent hours looking online what’s wrong this company is one the richest gaming companies yet they have terrible launches every year and this might be the worst one ever. This is fraud and a scam don’t give me that BS that it takes a while if I give them 100 dollars I expect my add one right now smh… Expand
  74. IliyaKiller
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Your stuff WONT carry over to the next gen, not to mention that the game doesn’t support smart delivery either. Waste of money and greedy AF. This is the most insulting NBA game up to date.
  75. Reginaldbeug
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Same bloody game every year with an over dramatic story that adds nothing to the career mode. My league once again receives zero attention and the **** meter is broken. They only care about myteam as that is where they can fill their greedy pockets. 2K should be ashamed.
  76. F9E30
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Wow! This is a terrible game. I cannot believe people are even giving this a score above 5, are they getting paid to do so? lol. I have never criticised 2k to the point I had to come on MetaCritic but this game is a new level bad.

    The game has been ruined by this new shot meter that just doesn't make sense - you literally need a magnifying glass to actually see the shot meter.    Wow! This is a terrible game. I cannot believe people are even giving this a score above 5, are they getting paid to do so? lol. I have never criticised 2k to the point I had to come on MetaCritic but this game is a new level bad.

    The game has been ruined by this new shot meter that just doesn't make sense - you literally need a magnifying glass to actually see the shot meter.

    Everything else is the same - basically a DLC you buy for NBA2K20. They change the shot meter + neighbourhood and market this as a new game. Why not just make us pay for an update of 2K20 instead?

    Critics need to be far more honest rather than stuffing their mouths with money and saying what 2K would like them to say.    … Expand
  77. RickyCombat
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Where do I **** start with this one??? Do you hate yourself??? Then buy this game. There’s nothing worse than the self loathing sensation of knowing that you’ve been conned out of money, and 2K21 will deliver you that sensation in spades. I’ve played 2K for years, and NBA live before that. Honestly the shooting is one of the most unenjoyable things I’ve experienced in gaming. I understandWhere do I **** start with this one??? Do you hate yourself??? Then buy this game. There’s nothing worse than the self loathing sensation of knowing that you’ve been conned out of money, and 2K21 will deliver you that sensation in spades. I’ve played 2K for years, and NBA live before that. Honestly the shooting is one of the most unenjoyable things I’ve experienced in gaming. I understand they might want to make it more competitive.....But finishing a game with both teams totalling 60 odd three point attempts, with only 2 of those going in, is absolutely insane. It’s not hard, there’s no “skill gap”, it’s not about badges, the game is absolutely broken. You’ll run a perfect pick and roll, the defence collapses, you kick it out to the free man in the corner, and 97 times out of 100 you will brick that shot. I’m not exaggerating, it is insane. The cover athlete tweeted that he can’t even make a free throw for **** sake!!! I struggle to put this into perspective...I had “No Mans Sky” day one, and I feel more conned with 2k21.

    Also here’s a disclaimer; I’m using the new pro stick features they’ve forced on us, I went 10-0 in online triple threat today...it was still **** I won those games exclusively shooting 3 feet away from the basket. Nothing fun about it.

    Apparently there’s a “hot fix” coming tomorrow for the shooting, but jesus christ read the reddit pages and twitter replies before you buy this game....Unless you hate yourself of course!    … Expand
  78. Vdaboss69
    Sep 5, 2020
    8
    I think this is a big step forward from 2k20 which was awful. They improved passing not pass targeting though. The neighborhood/beach has a nice revamped design. Myteam has the new game mode which is pretty cool and feels nice and has a new good look and feel. Sadly myleague is pretty much the same but at this point that's expected. The Mycareer story is ok but better then last year andI think this is a big step forward from 2k20 which was awful. They improved passing not pass targeting though. The neighborhood/beach has a nice revamped design. Myteam has the new game mode which is pretty cool and feels nice and has a new good look and feel. Sadly myleague is pretty much the same but at this point that's expected. The Mycareer story is ok but better then last year and it's cool to play in high school and college again. I'm very excited for next gen 2k21 and so far really like the way this game is heading and is 100× better then 2k20… Expand
  79. Guinuto
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    This is the worst 2k ever. Shot meater is pure trash and the gameplay is almost unplayable.
    Prelude cutscenes have fifteen fps or less without mentioning the poor script. In "My career" barely has cutscenes and is the same thing as nba 2k20. "Myteam" remains to be a store not a game mode and the added cheat 2k still suck the players up with microtransactions, the atributes are even more    This is the worst 2k ever. Shot meater is pure trash and the gameplay is almost unplayable.
    Prelude cutscenes have fifteen fps or less without mentioning the poor script. In "My career" barely has cutscenes and is the same thing as nba 2k20. "Myteam" remains to be a store not a game mode and the added cheat 2k still suck the players up with microtransactions, the atributes are even more expensive than last year. Is simply one of the wort games i ve ever played    … Expand
  80. KingNyx
    Sep 5, 2020
    7
    I think this game will be a little more worth to play on next gen, I am upset about MyCareer not being able to transfer over to next gen, but I guess that's how it is. Gaining VC fast isn't a problem if you like to play 5 minute quarter games and all. I would say that this is a down year, 2k20 may have been better than this. I'll still get this game maybe, but I would look forward to 2k22
  81. LoganWolverine
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    The same problems people have with Madden are here as well.....only worse. The MyCareer mode either requires you to spend money early on VC so you can compete or you're in for a long grind. The MyTeam mode is somehow even worse. It's basically pay-to-win and if you aren't spending money to open packs you'll always be significantly behind everyone else. The game doesn't deserve any praiseThe same problems people have with Madden are here as well.....only worse. The MyCareer mode either requires you to spend money early on VC so you can compete or you're in for a long grind. The MyTeam mode is somehow even worse. It's basically pay-to-win and if you aren't spending money to open packs you'll always be significantly behind everyone else. The game doesn't deserve any praise because it hasn't done anything different from the past years outside of making the shooting bar worse. Fans need to wake up and realize they're being scammed by companies like EA and 2K or sports games will always be the yearly cash grabs that they are now.… Expand
  82. Ballinlikejokic
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    Why, just why 2k why does this company want to be so lazy with this franchise, I’m ashamed to be a **** sports fan cause I can’t play a god damn good sports game it’s the game game from last year. My team is a waste of effort so is my league my career is the same the only credit I give 2k is changing the park AFTER 3 YEARS, what a joke same gameplay as 2k20 and the ones before it. TheWhy, just why 2k why does this company want to be so lazy with this franchise, I’m ashamed to be a **** sports fan cause I can’t play a god damn good sports game it’s the game game from last year. My team is a waste of effort so is my league my career is the same the only credit I give 2k is changing the park AFTER 3 YEARS, what a joke same gameplay as 2k20 and the ones before it. The meter just makes me sick you literally cannot have fun playing this game it’s either play the whole day and get barely anything or pay to win/ get good. I do not get why people still buy this game go they called the game trash!!!! Do not buy this game what a terrible company and game **** YOU RONNIE AND MIKE WANG CANT MAKE A GOOD BASKETBALL GAME… Expand
  83. Kaydn
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    The worst sports game i have ever played. Nothing in it works, I cant rhink of a single positive thing to say about it. Do not buy under any circumstances
  84. GhostBigfoot
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    It absolutely disgusts me to be a basketball fan when 2k exists. This game is the equivalent to vomit, piss, and **** in a dumpster that's on fire. NBA 2k21 is the worst basketball game ever created with almost no changes from NBA 2k18 to here besides a stupid meter change. Just because you change the meter doesn't mean it's good Ronnie! The fact that your cover athlete, Damian LillardIt absolutely disgusts me to be a basketball fan when 2k exists. This game is the equivalent to vomit, piss, and **** in a dumpster that's on fire. NBA 2k21 is the worst basketball game ever created with almost no changes from NBA 2k18 to here besides a stupid meter change. Just because you change the meter doesn't mean it's good Ronnie! The fact that your cover athlete, Damian Lillard said your game is trash is saying something about your product 2k. MyCareer has a trash story again and all they did was give birth to a 2k18 x 2k19 plus some palm trees, it's the same boring land of **** again. MyTeam is the same greedy garbage again with nothing changing, your builds are the exact same from 2k20, same gameplay but you can't make a shot. This why I encourage people to not spend their money on this trash, please encourage yourself and others not to spend money on this pissful company who are so greedy releasing the same copy and paste garbage every year. The game keeps crashing like the ****ty product it is. Don't buy this garbage for your sake and others, 0/10. … Expand
  85. MinePlay512
    Sep 5, 2020
    8
    What disappointed me the most is that there is no Create a Legend Mode and the lack of improvements for MyLeague and MyGM. I also am not happy that you can't even transfer MyCareer. But overall, NBA2K21 is a solid game that will bring in fun for Basketball Fans.
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Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 50 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 50
  2. Mixed: 37 out of 50
  3. Negative: 0 out of 50
  1. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Nov 15, 2020
    70
    It loses a point because of its Virtual Currency (VC) obsession, a recurringissue in 2K games. It’s supposed to ensure that all your actions in every mode – career, MyTeam, even watching 2KTV – secure rewards, but they’re often someagre that the entire game comes across as a grind, aimed at funnelling you towards the PS Store to part with real cash.Please don’t do that. The only way games like this and FIFA will change in the next gen is if their players make a sustainedeffort not to exchange any of their hard-earned dosh for digital trading cards. Otherwise this is solid, but on that front 2K (and EA, and the rest) must do better. [Issue#181, p.94]
  2. GamingBolt
    Oct 31, 2020
    60
    NBA 2K21 makes welcome improvements to its MyCareer and MyTeam modes, but the frustratingly inconsistent new shooting system and lack of changes elsewhere make it feel like it’s lost its step over other sports games.
    Read full review
  3. Games.cz
    Oct 23, 2020
    70
    On the court, this is a brilliant basketball game that doesn’t change much. Why would it when it’s not really necessary? The microtransactions, however, are more annoying than Houston’s playstyle.
    Read full review
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