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A new momentum based gameplay system that gives gamers a complete difference in control between various types of players. Now a player’s ability and physical makeup will determine how fast they can run up the court on a fast break, how well they can cut to the basket off their opponent, and more, creating a new level of realism and natural team movement. Pioneering a new standard in artificial intelligence, computer-controlled players now have the ability to decide independently how they can best help their team and realistically react based on each human players’ actions. CPU players determine the best way they can help win in accordance with each team’s philosophy and distinct play sets. Beyond the Next Movement, IsoMotion2 improves upon the exciting dribble system of last year. Deftly perform spins, crossovers, and fakes outside the perimeter and now, in the post. Use enhanced IsoMotion2 on the defensive side to contain overaggressive ball-handlers and force turnovers. One of the most innovative features in sports games gets twice as big with over 100 new items, new timed mini games, and multi-player games. New respect level determines which player will answer your call for 24/7 games. [ESPN]
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more... 100
GamePro
No one's going to beat 2K5 on price, and the game's as tough as nails on the court. [Dec 2004, p.142]
92
Team Xbox
For those looking for a variety of online modes, great graphics, and technically accurate five-on-five play, ESPN 2K5 is the only way to go.
 91
VGPub
Sega finally got the rhythm back again as ESPN NBA 2K5 excels on all levels and is easily the best playing and most featured filled basketball game on the market.
90
GameZone
All said, NBA 2K5 is the best basketball game on the market. Period. NBA team comparison: 2003-2004 Detroit Pistons – Does what it needs to do to get it done. Teamwork and fundamentals give this game the championship it rightfully deserves.
90
GameSpy
While EA's series definitely has its strong points, ESPN NBA 2K5 has better graphics, AI, and that highly addictive 24-7 mode.
90
GamerFeed
Simply put, ESPN NBA 2K5 can't be beat when it comes to value and offers quite possibly the best virtual game of basketball on the market today.
90
Game Informer
This is still the best playing, most rewarding and realistic basketball game that money can buy. [Nov 2004, p.143]
90
Yahoo! Games
An excellent basketball game. It offers loads of gameplay, solid physics, unparalleled animations, and terrific graphics. It would be a bargain at $50, let alone the $20 it's selling for.
88
XGP Gaming
Overall, this game is a three pointer from downtown. Granted, it was banked off the boards and hit the rim, but it still went in.
87
Sports Gaming Network
Flaws in the graphics and lack of improvement in 24/7 mode are outweighed by the positives of improvements in gameplay, the Association, and online.
85
BonusStage
Absolutely the way to go. The upgraded franchise mode with the awesome Full Authority feature and the return of the 24/7 mode make this game more than worth its 20 dollar price tag.
85
Official Xbox Magazine
The controls feel loose and non-responsive, which makes executing everything from a simple dunk to a pick-and-roll more exasperating than it should be. [Dec 2004, p.89]
84
GameSpot
Even though there are some rough edges in its franchise mode, ESPN NBA 2K5's basic gameplay mechanics are extremely well done, making the game easy to recommend to any basketball fan. It hits the mark in just about every aspect of basketball, including post-up play, rebounding, and passing.
83
Play Magazine
It just shies away from greatness given how good last year's game was. [Dec 2004, p.103]
82
TotalGames.net
Wisely staying away from being a full on sim, NBA 2K5 features incredibly slick gameplay, intuitive action and - most importantly - delivers a fantastic game of Basketball that dumps on EA's recent effort from a great height.
81
IGN
A confounding mix of good, bad, and just plain stupid. Like Charles Barkley, the 2K series remains great, but is still lacking that elusive championship ring.
80
1UP
If you already own "ESPN NBA 2K4" basketball game, 2K5 is probably not worth the dough -- prettier graphics aren't enough. The $20 price tag puts it in reach of most everyone else, though.
80
Electronic Gaming Monthly
2K5 looks better, moves better, and controls more intuitively than EA's hoopster. [Dec 2004, p.158]
80
Xbox Nation Magazine
The first thing you're going to notice about this game is how unbelievably gorgeous it is. [Dec 2004, p.94]
80
Operation Sports
My plea to VC: Please don’t revert back to last year’s game. The game is a few steps away from being a great game. Just fix the bugs.
80
AceGamez
There are many features here to keep you entertained while going solo but if you're looking for a multiplayer friendly game, ESPN doesn't really deliver.
80
Sydney Morning Herald
The 24/7 create-a-player mode is hugely addictive, letting you train your character and complete increasingly tough challenges. ESPN's weaknesses are a limited defensive game and shallow franchise mode.
80
MS Xbox World
The announcing is unfortunately not up to the previous standards seen in the 2K series.
80
netjak
Even though I'm not blown away by the gameplay or even the different modes of play, I can definitely see a fair amount of replay value in this game.
79
Next Level Gaming
The controls and the gameplay just aren't what they used to be, and this has allowed "NBA Live" to catch up this year.
78
Xequted
Even if you don’t know how to play the game, the rules are easily picked up and gameplay is relatively smooth and quite fun –however, if you wish to advance your play, invent set moves and plays then the game can become much more enjoyable for the advanced player.
75
Game Revolution
If there’s one area in which ESPN clearly dominates the competition, it’s in its graphics. Player models are terrific, the framerate is smooth throughout and the animations are pretty fluid.
75
Gaming Age
With top-notch graphics and a mostly solid game of basketball that rewards practice and knowledge, ESPN NBA 2k5 is loads of fun.
idk gave it a6: Arthur gave it a10: Bob M. gave it a10: Altrese J. gave it a8: Big A. gave it a 10: TOMISIN O. gave it a 9: Kenneth W. gave it a 10: |
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