The game that started it all was born as an arcade game back in 1993 and eventually found itself ported to home consoles more than a year later. It was one of the most popular arcade games of its time, and if you can manage to find an arcade around you, it's probably a safe bet there will be an NBA Jam cabinet inside. Hilariously, the game's programmer (A Detroit Pistons fan) hated the Bulls so much they were programmed to miss last second shots in close games against the Pistons. The game featured a 2-on-2 style gameplay where you were able to jump five feet higher than the rim and dunk it with no remorse. Jam was followed up by Hangtime and others, but none really enjoyed the popularity that Jam did. NBA Jam's impact on the genre can be seen in every single game on this list and more. From the ability to catch fire, super human abilities to ridiculous unlockable characters - the then president of the United States, Bill Clinton was a secret playable character in this game. Without the success this game found, who knows if we would have seen any of the other over-the-top sports games we have come to cherish over time. Which other gloriously OTT sports games belong on this list? Share your favourites below in the comments thread.
