Why it issues: The final three PC editions of NBA 2K have been lackluster in comparison with consoles, which have acquired graphical enhancements and new gameplay options. Providing last-gen updates on PC is probably going essential to accommodate customers with low-end techniques, however FIFA on PC reached current-gen parity final yr, whereas Madden will achieve this this yr.
Visible Ideas and 2K Video games have revealed particulars for NBA 2K24, and it’ll seemingly be one other disappointment for PC gamers. Upgraded graphics, new gameplay parts, and cross-play shall be unique to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Collection variations. The webpage highlighting this yr’s content material and upcoming options avoids mentioning the PC model totally. The sport’s major addition is ProPLAY, which can use actual NBA footage to supply a generational leap within the recreation’s animation high quality.
Though this would be the fourth entry to launch on current-gen consoles, NBA 2K24 would be the first to incorporate cross-play between PlayStation 5 and Xbox Collection in all recreation modes. This performance did not make it to PC. Furthermore, final yr’s PC port lacked a number of the profession mode options from the current-gen consoles, and the most recent model will seemingly be no completely different in that respect.
At any time when sports activities simulation franchises transition between console generations, the developer normally waits an additional yr or two to convey new options to the PC model, primarily treating them like last-gen console house owners. When the improve does come, it causes a dramatic enhance in minimal system necessities, negatively affecting the numerous variety of customers taking part in on modest {hardware}.
For the NBA 2K collection, this final occurred with 2K15, and 2K24’s necessities are similar to its nine-year-old predecessor. The really useful spec lists decade-old chips just like the Intel i5-4430 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 770. The one probably vital hurdle is the 110 GB storage requirement. The upside is that, like 2K23, this yr’s entry should not have any hassle working on the Steam Deck or different current handheld gaming PCs.
Nevertheless, holding the PC model again for 4 years is extreme. Even NBA 2K15 system parity with the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One variations just one yr after these consoles debuted. Extra just lately, EA’s FIFA 23 ended its two-year lag final yr, and Madden 24 will catch up this yr.
NBA 2K24 launches September 8 for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Collection consoles, and Nintendo Change. The PC model prices $59.99, whereas the PS5 and Xbox Collection editions are $69.99.
