NBA 2K

Overview Places & Experiences Collectibles Characters Weapons & Gear Media

The premier basketball simulation video game series that delivers authentic NBA gameplay, featuring real players, teams, and immersive career modes.

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

NBA 2K Series

Also Known As

2K Basketball, NBA 2K Series

Format

Sports Video Game

Release Year

1999

Current Status

Unknown

Country of Origin

United States

Creator

Visual Concepts, 2K Sports

Original Work

Sports Video Game

Genre

Basketball, Sports Simulation, NBA, 2K Sports, Career Mode, MyTeam, Multiplayer, Esports

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape NBA 2K.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

More than just a game, NBA 2K offers a comprehensive basketball universe. From the cinematic narrative of MyCareer where you rise from rookie to legend, to the card-collecting strategy of MyTeam, and the open-world community of The City, it captures the essence of basketball culture.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

The world of professional basketball, primarily set in realistic recreations of NBA arenas across North America, as well as 'The City' or 'The Neighborhood'—open-world hubs where players can compete in streetball games, shop for gear, and socialize.

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

The Path to Greatness, Basketball Culture, Team Chemistry, Competition & Legacy, Style & Expression

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing NBA 2K's global influence.

1999

NBA 2K debuts on Dreamcast, establishing the franchise

2005

NBA 2K6 introduces advanced gameplay mechanics

2010

MyPlayer mode debuts, revolutionizing career gameplay

2013

Next-gen versions launch with improved graphics and presentation

2018

NBA 2K League launches as official NBA esports league

2020

WNBA integration and expanded game modes

Present

Continues as the leading basketball simulation with annual releases

Sales

Over 123 million copies sold worldwide

Revenue

Over $1 billion annually across the franchise

Awards

Multiple Sports Game of the Year awards, critical acclaim for realism

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from NBA 2K.

LeBron James

“I'm going to use all my tools, my God-given ability, and make the best life I can with it.”

One of the greatest basketball players of all time, frequently featured as a cover athlete and top-rated player in NBA 2K.View Profile

Stephen Curry

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Revolutionary three-point shooter who changed the game of basketball, consistently featured as a top player in NBA 2K.View Profile

Giannis Antetokounmpo

“I want to be great. I want to be one of the best players to ever play the game.”

The 'Greek Freak' known for his incredible athleticism and versatility, a top-rated player in recent NBA 2K games.View Profile

MyPlayer

“Ball never stops.”

The customizable player character that users create and develop throughout their NBA 2K career.View Profile

Explore all NBA 2K characters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between current-gen and next-gen versions?▼

Next-gen versions (PS5, Xbox Series X/S) feature 'The City', advanced graphics, and more realistic gameplay mechanics like ProPLAY, while current-gen (PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC in some years) features 'The Neighborhood' and slightly different gameplay engines.

Can I transfer my MyPlayer progress between consoles?▼

Generally, VC (Virtual Currency) is shared within the same console family (e.g., PS4 to PS5), but MyPlayer progress and builds usually do not carry over between generations or platforms.

Is NBA 2K pay-to-win?▼

Many players criticize the heavy reliance on Virtual Currency (VC) to upgrade MyPlayer stats and buy MyTeam packs, which can give paying players a significant advantage, especially early in the game's lifecycle.

Does NBA 2K feature the WNBA?▼

Yes, recent NBA 2K games feature the WNBA with fully playable teams, seasons, and a dedicated career mode called 'The W' (on next-gen consoles).

What is the '2K Curse'?▼

A superstition that the player featured on the cover of NBA 2K will often switch teams or suffer a decline in performance shortly after the game's release.