The next generation of video games is just about here. As fans debate whether or not it is better to buy an Xbox Series X or PS5, companies like 2K are finding ways to innovate with the new technology. NBA 2K21 will have two different versions of the game between current and next-generation, and the information provided so far is rather enticing.
Games like FIFA 21 are offering free upgrades to the next-gen version of the game. By all accounts, FIFA 21 will be a better looking and most likely running game, but it seems like the general features will be the same. This seems perfectly reasonable, and a free upgrade is a wonderful move by EA. NBA 2K21 is taking a different route.
The next-gen version of NBA 2K21 will not simply be a better running version with a pretty coat of paint; there will be completely different features, gameplay changes, and elements of the title that will be unique to the next-generation version. This is part of the reason why NBA 2K21 will cost $10 more on Xbox Series X and PS5.
The New New Neighborhood
2K recently teased and announced The Beach, the new Neighborhood for NBA 2K21, on current-gen. The previous neighborhood was designed with an inner-city vibe, perfectly encapsulating players like Rucker Park. The Beach goes for a different route, but just an intriguing. The Beach is based on LA-style outdoor basketball by the beach, with a colorful vibe. The 3 on 3 matches, the Pro-Am, new shops, and new events will all take place in this fresh beautiful location. However, the next-gen version of The Neighborhood will not be the same.
According to the developer, The Beach is only for current-gen and a totally unique area will be made available on the next-gen version of NBA 2K21. This is part of the reason why MyCareer data will not be transferrable from the current-gen to next-gen. What exactly this new area will look like is not yet known, but if it's anywhere near as imaginative as The Beach, players are in for a treat.
WNBA in Next-Gen
In talking with 2K recently during a preview event, Game Rant was able to gather some information on how 2K is handling the WNBA and female basketball players in NBA 2K21. WNBA players and teams will again be a part of NBA 2K21 in the form of play now and seasons, but that is about the extent of it.
When it comes to next-gen, however, the developer gave an amazing hint of what could be on the way for NBA 2k21. Female player creator, using MyPlayer, seems to be what is on the way with next-gen, and perhaps even more implementations. It would be very neat to see female fans represented in the game and dominating the courts of the new new Neighborhood.
A Whole New Game
As far as the current generation version of NBA 2K21 is concerned, there are quite a few changes and improvements on the way. Pro-stick allows for quicker and more smooth movement and dribbling, there is a new shot stick aiming method, Damion Lillard requested 6'8" point guards are a new player type, and the signature movement is being added to the game for realistic player movement based on height, size, etc. MyCareer is also seeing big changes, as is MyGM/MyLeague. But not much of this is confirmed for the next-gen version of NBA 2K21.
The developers claim that NBA 2K21 is a brand new game, totally separate from the current-gen version with huge improvements for next-gen, a new Neighborhood, and gameplay overhauls. The idea that 2K is charging $10 more for this version makes a bit more sense now, even if it is a tough pill to swallow. While many developers are simply upgrading a current-gen game to be better optimized for the next-gen, 2K looks to be creating an entirely new game.
NBA 2K21 releases September 4 on PC, PS4, Stadia, Switch, Xbox One, and mobile devices, followed by PS5 and Xbox Series X as the consoles launch.