NBA 2K20 Review: 5 Ups & 4 Downs

2. Pure Immersion

NBA 2K20
2K Games

In-game immersion remains one of the series' greatest strengths in 2K20, thanks, in part, to the tremendous aesthetics.

While there are a handful of blemishes (Nikola Jokic's player model is strangely ripped, for one), NBA 2K20 looks and sounds phenomenal.

A rich, varied soundtrack features contributions from rap veterans like KRS-One to up-and-comers like IDK, as always. The arena's swelling crowds, horns, and announcements recreate the live NBA experience as well as could be expected. Clark Kellogg and Kevin Harlan remain the benchmark for sports gaming commentary, particularly when compared to the boring, monotonous, repetitive examples found in franchises like FIFA.

Visually, NBA 2K20 is impossibly slick. The textures and animations are all on point. Yes, any improvements from 2K19 are negligible, but who cares? That game looked great as well.

Improved facial technology has led to digital basketball players that are now more expressive and believable than ever before. From the elation of victory to the anguish of defeat, you feel what they're going through as a result of this innovation. A big step forward even when the franchise didn't necessarily need one.

Advertisement
Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.