NBA Playgrounds

 Switch
Metascore
63

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 19 out of 21
  3. Negative: 1 out of 21
  1. GameGrin
    Jun 19, 2017
    80
    NBA Playgrounds is a really fun and quirky title. The lack of online play at launch is a big omission and although the game lacks replayability, the arcade aesthetics, easy to use controls and whirlwind gameplay make this game extremely enjoyable in short bursts. I found the game better on handheld rather than playing off a TV, due to its ‘on the move’ vibe, and in that respect, it's undoubtedly a nice game to just unwind with and enjoy for what it is.
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  1. Eurogamer
    May 10, 2017
    Despite several shortcomings It is more than a cheap knock-off, though, and thanks to some smart ideas and novel twists there's an enjoyable tribute to be found here. Just be warned that NBA Playgrounds is a few steps away from being much more than an overly fuzzy dose of nostalgia.
  2. Nintendo Life
    May 9, 2017
    NBA Playgrounds is a flawed game, but a fun one. Single player modes are playable but can feel like a bit of a slog for all but the most hardcore fans. Multiplayer fares much better, delivering an enjoyable local multiplayer experience that we’re hopeful can be recreated well online. If you’re thinking of picking this one up, then, we recommend you do your homework and proceed with caution; perhaps wait until the online multiplayer is live, too.
  3. Vooks
    May 23, 2017
    While there are many frustrations to be had, NBA Playgrounds does offer exactly what is advertised; a serviceable playground for Switch owners to wreak two-on-two basketball havoc on until the next 2K or NBA Jam game.

Awards & Rankings

53
#53 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
51
#51 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
6.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 95 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 48 out of 95
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 95
  3. Negative: 26 out of 95
  1. KermitJagger
    May 9, 2017
    2
    First and foremost, the load times are amazingly long. Loading into a game took FOREVER, but the load times for all areas of the game are justFirst and foremost, the load times are amazingly long. Loading into a game took FOREVER, but the load times for all areas of the game are just too long. Otherwise, the graphics look blurry/washed out, especially when compared to other versions of the game. This is to be expected a bit, I suppose considering the Switch it the least powerful of the systems. As far as gameplay goes the shooting mechanic makes no sense. You're supposed to somehow know the sweetspot for shooting, without any kind of hints or visual guide. 90% of my shots were either too early or too late, with no indication as to why. Makes for a very frustrating game. I feel this version of the game was rushed to be released at the same time as the other versions, when it's obvious it wasn't ready, especially with online play needing to be patched in, from what I understand. Wait on this one...maybe they'll fix it.… Full Review »
  2. wake911
    May 11, 2017
    5
    NBA Playground brings back MANY memories of NBA JAM for me.

    Pros: -Fun Game play: Easy to pick up and play. -Ability to play as current    NBA Playground brings back MANY memories of NBA JAM for me.

    Pros:
    -Fun Game play: Easy to pick up and play.
    -Ability to play as current and former players is really fun.
    -Games go pretty quick.
    -Very challenging, which is fun.
    -Nearly unlimited options in making your team.

    Cons:
    -ALL current players should be available (that were intended to be in the game) Having to play for hours to "hope" to open up your current home team players is ridiculous and terrible design decision.
    - Questionable AI. sometimes the "bonuses" string together for the AI in ways that are ridiculous, near to "controller throwing" level of frustration. Other times it's like you are playing against a group of little kids in skill level (this is against the same team in a tournament)
    - Unreal how long it takes to load EACH game you play. Wow, it's a set the controller down, go grab a drink, get some snacks, come back and maybe it will be ready to play.

    Overall: Worth the $20, I bought for a new version of NBA JAM, which I half got. but I'm very unhappy with how you get your players to choose from. I would 100% understand if all the current players are available, and through game play you have to unlock the legends and former players. Seems like a terrible model for the game, that I see as a design decision, not a part of the "rushed to market" I've heard about.

    About the Shot mechanics, i've see others mention. They were VERY tough the first few games, but have gotten it down for jump shots. I still struggle with Dunks and Alley Oops, but it is getting easier as it goes on.

    I did not purchase for on-line play, so have no comment on the on-line play aspect.    … Full Review »
  3. thekilowatt
    May 10, 2017
    3
    TL/DR:
    AI: way too hard, Gameplay: unintuitive at best, possibly broken. Wait on buying this until they patch it so its fun.
    Begin rant:    TL/DR:
    AI: way too hard, Gameplay: unintuitive at best, possibly broken. Wait on buying this until they patch it so its fun.

    Begin rant: This game is fairly broken. The "hold down the button until almost at the peak of your jump" mechanism for making baskets really just doesnt work. First 20 or so games I've played on the easiest setting have been massive blowouts by the rookie (easiest) AI. average score seems to be 5 - 50 because nearly every shot I attempt doesn't work because of some hidden shot timing mechanism that isn't explained well and is not intuitive. Whats worse is a 2v2 NBA Jam like arcade game would be perfect for the switch but every friend that I've had try it quits after 1 game (or less) because of the punishing difficulty.

    Graphics are pretty blurry on the switch itself but when playing on the TV it seems pretty good. Game play is still impossible but you know, improvements.

    This game would be a solid 6-7 if the shot mechanism was simpler and more forgiving. Also If you are going to make a basketball arcade game don't use every button on the switch AND require button combinations (ZR+X is dunk, ZL + Y is alley oop) this is way too confusing. The load times are pretty bad (~30 seconds or more) but whats worse is you dont have enough time during that massive load time to read all of the controls, which makes the game downright laughable in its un-arcade-iness...    … Full Review »
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