NBA 2k

Gameplay
Each version of the NBA 2K series reflects the National Basketball Association, with small enhancements made over previous versions. The gameplay mimics a typical basketball game, allowing players to control either an entire team or a specific player. The objectives align with basketball rules, and the presentation resembles actual NBA broadcasts. The series includes various game modes for diverse gameplay experiences, with many customizable options. Each game features current NBA teams and players, along with historic teams and players, EuroLeague teams, and starting with NBA 2K20, WNBA teams. Players can also create their own fictional players and teams.

A key feature of the series is its career mode, often seen as a sports-themed role-playing game. The first installment to include this mode was ESPN NBA Basketball, but it became more prominent starting with NBA 2K10. Initially named 24/7, it evolved into MyPlayer and eventually became MyCareer. This mode focuses on the basketball journey of a player created by the user, allowing customization of various aspects and progression through an NBA career. Important milestones, like the draft and retirement, are highlighted, and storylines are often included. The mode also covers high school and college basketball, with players able to enhance their attributes and engage in off-court activities.

Another popular feature is the mode that lets players take on the role of an NBA franchise general manager. This mode has appeared in many NBA 2K games, often called Association, with the latest titles featuring MyGM and MyLeague modes. Players manage nearly all aspects of the team, beyond just gameplay. As they progress through seasons, they must meet the needs of the team’s staff and ownership.

MyTeam mode, introduced in NBA 2K13, centers on building a team of players and competing against others online. Players primarily acquire team members through card packs, which include random items, including players. Besides assembling a roster, players can customize their team's jerseys and courts. The mode saw further development in NBA 2K19, featuring a MyTeam tournament with a $250,000 prize for the top Xbox and PS4 players. Other online modes, like Pro-Am, encourage players to collaborate and build teams with their custom players.

Beyond standard NBA games, street basketball has been a part of several titles in the series. Both created and real players can participate, and some celebrities have also made guest appearances. Recent games feature street basketball modes called Blacktop and MyPark. Blacktop follows traditional street basketball rules, while MyPark offers an open area where players can join various games on different courts. Several games also include a mode for holding slam dunk contests.

Some games in the series have unique modes exclusive to that title. For example, NBA 2K11 introduced the Jordan Challenge mode, where players recreate memorable moments from Michael Jordan's career, like scoring 69 points in a game. NBA 2K12 featured the NBA's Greatest mode, allowing players to engage with legendary players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Julius Erving, and Bill Russell. The PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Microsoft Windows versions of NBA 2K14 included a mode called Path to Greatness, focusing on LeBron James's career.