NBA 2K20

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of NBA 2K20 are quite varied. Some critics, such as GameStar and Softpedia, praise the story mode, known as MyCareer, for its grounded and enjoyable narrative. They appreciate the relatable characters, interesting storylines, and the inclusion of famous actors like Idris Elba and Rosario Dawson. Vooks also mentions the choose-your-own-adventure elements and cutscenes, which add depth to the story and create likeable and relatable characters. These positive aspects of the story mode contribute to an engaging and immersive experience for players. On the other hand, critics like Gameplanet, NintendoWorldReport, and GameSpew have negative opinions about the story mode. Gameplanet criticizes the storyline and dialogue, describing them as atrocious with inconsistent character development and poor writing. NintendoWorldReport highlights the negative impact of microtransactions and pay-to-win mechanics on the story mode, making it mediocre or worse. GameSpew goes as far as saying that the story starts strong but ultimately goes nowhere and is not enjoyable at all. These criticisms point out flaws in the narrative, character development, and overall execution of the story mode. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a positive evaluation of the story mode in NBA 2K20. Critics like Cubed3, TheSixthAxis, Cheat Code Central, God is a Geek, Twinfinite, Wccftech, GameCrate, and The Games Machine appreciate the solid and enjoyable nature of the story mode. They mention the well-crafted narrative, the exploration of relevant themes, the impressive cutscenes, and the compelling sports story. However, there are also critics like GameCritics, Gaming Age, Xbox Achievements, and Xbox Tavern who have mixed opinions about the story mode. They acknowledge certain positive aspects, such as enjoyable moments and impressive acting, but also highlight shortcomings like the lack of character development, focus on endorsements, and excessive cutscenes. The overall sentiment suggests that while NBA 2K20's story mode has its strengths, it also has room for improvement in terms of narrative depth and execution.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of NBA 2K20 are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the game for its precise controls, realistic feel, and deep dribbling mechanics. GameStar, Softpedia, and Nintendo Life all highlighted the excellent gameplay mechanics, with Softpedia mentioning significant improvements in ball control and dribbles. Nintendo Life also mentioned the impact of physical characteristics and skill-set on on-court performance, as well as new dribble animations and off-ball collisions. TheSixthAxis and Game Revolution both mentioned that the gameplay is realistic and rewarding, requiring players to think and play like actual NBA players. The Games Machine and Twinfinite also commended the game for its precise and refined gameplay, while Wccftech mentioned the fluid and realistic on-court action. However, there were a few criticisms regarding the gameplay of NBA 2K20. Switch Player mentioned that the gameplay can be frustrating, particularly in terms of defensive play and blocking shots. They also noted that new players may struggle to win without weeks of practice. Xbox Achievements and Xbox Tavern also mentioned issues with defensive play and sluggish movement at times. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of NBA 2K20 is very good. The majority of the critics praised the game for its excellent gameplay mechanics, realistic feel, and rewarding gameplay experience. The positive aspects of the gameplay, such as precise controls, improved animations, and deep dribbling mechanics, were highlighted by multiple critics. While there were some criticisms regarding defensive play and movement, the overall sentiment is that NBA 2K20 offers a highly enjoyable and engaging gameplay experience.

The majority of the critics praised the graphics and visual design of NBA 2K20, with many highlighting the game's lifelike character models, detailed arenas, and fluid animations. GameStar commended the fantastic presentation of the game, with spectacular pre-game and halftime shows that enhance the overall experience and make each match feel like a real NBA broadcast. Softpedia also mentioned that the graphics are well implemented and lifelike, adding to the authenticity of the game. Impulsegamer specifically mentioned that the visuals are striking, with easily recognizable players and fluid animations, while GameCrate noted the game's attention to detail in accurately representing player tattoos, facial expressions, and signature moves. However, there were a few critics who pointed out some drawbacks in the graphics and visual design of NBA 2K20. Cubed3 mentioned that the graphics on the Nintendo Switch version were downgraded compared to other platforms, with flattened textures and omitted details. TheSixthAxis also noted that the visuals on the Switch version were not as impressive as the Xbox One and PS4 versions, although still maintaining a consistent 30fps. PlayStation LifeStyle mentioned issues with sideline cameras and awkward facial animations, while Xbox Achievements pointed out occasional bugs and weird character eyes. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the graphics and visual design of NBA 2K20 are very good. The game received praise for its realistic character models, detailed arenas, and lifelike animations, which contribute to an immersive and authentic experience. Critics like Twinfinite and GameSpew even went as far as to compare the visuals to real-life games and TV broadcasts, highlighting the frighteningly authentic presentation. While there were some criticisms regarding downgraded graphics on certain platforms and occasional technical issues, the positive feedback from the majority of the critics outweighs the negatives. NBA 2K20 is generally regarded as one of the best-looking sports games, with its attention to detail and overall visual quality being highly praised by reviewers.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K20 are generally positive. Softpedia and Cubed3 both praise the commentary in the game, describing it as rich, fantastic, and striving to make the game more realistic. They appreciate how the commentary flows well and creates a realistic conversation during matches. Switch Player highlights the inclusion of pre-match punditry featuring the voices and likenesses of basketball legends, as well as interviews with players and analysis of the action during halftime. This adds to the overall immersion and authenticity of the game. Impulsegamer also mentions the immersive sound design, with the buzzer coming out of the controller adding to the feeling of being in the game. Xbox Achievements agrees that the commentary is the best around, despite disliking the music choices. However, there are some negative opinions regarding the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K20. PSX Extreme mentions that while the in-game commentary has improved and is worth listening to, the music and crowd energy in the game could be better. This suggests that the music choices may not be well-received by all players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of NBA 2K20 are strong. TheSixthAxis praises the broadcast-aping presentation, including the hip-hop music and voice-over work, which they describe as stellar and making players feel like they are part of the action. Push Square is impressed with the in-game commentary, stating that it is lightyears ahead of other franchises and even has a separate commentary team for the newly added WNBA mode. GameCritics also commends the game for its realistic sound design and commentary. While there are some criticisms regarding the music choices and crowd energy, the overall sentiment is positive, with the majority of critics appreciating the efforts made to create an immersive and realistic audio experience in NBA 2K20.

The voice acting in NBA 2K20 has received mixed reviews from critics. On the positive side, several critics praised the inclusion of well-known actors such as Idris Elba and Rosario Dawson in the game. NintendoWorldReport mentions that the cast assembled for the story mode is eclectic and better than required, with stars like Idris Elba, Rosario Dawson, and Thomas Middleditch showing up. GameCrate also highlights the appearances of NBA players and actors like Idris Elba, Rosario Dawson, and Thomas Middleditch in the story mode, stating that the voice acting was well-produced and entertaining. Additionally, Push Square commends the in-game commentary, stating that it is lightyears ahead of other franchises and that the voice acting is impressive. Xbox Tavern specifically praises Idris Elba and Rosario Dawson's voice acting. However, there are also some negative opinions regarding the voice acting in NBA 2K20. TheSixthAxis mentions that although the game features a star-studded cast including Idris Elba and Rosario Dawson, their roles are blink-and-you'll-miss-them, suggesting that they are underused. Gaming Age criticizes the voice acting for being underutilized, stating that talented actors like Rosario Dawson and Idris Elba are given little to do. Vooks also points out that the voice acting is uneven, with Idris Elba's performance being lukewarm. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that while NBA 2K20 features a star-studded cast and some impressive voice acting, there are missed opportunities in utilizing these talented actors effectively. The inclusion of Idris Elba and Rosario Dawson is appreciated, but their roles are often brief and underused. However, there are positive aspects to the voice acting, such as the well-produced and entertaining performances in the story mode, as praised by GameCrate. The in-game commentary, including a separate team for the newly added WNBA mode, is also highlighted as a standout feature by Push Square. Despite the mixed opinions, it seems that the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment in not fully utilizing the potential of the talented cast in NBA 2K20's voice acting.

In terms of the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch, the majority of critics had positive opinions. Cubed3 commends the remarkable performance of NBA 2K20 on the Switch, with only a few frame-rate dips during cut-scenes. NintendoWorldReport also praises the smooth gameplay and minimal issues, aside from a few lengthy loads. Vooks further supports this sentiment, stating that the Switch version runs excellently with no technical performance or stability issues mentioned. The overall consensus for the Switch platform is that NBA 2K20 delivers a solid performance, providing an enjoyable gaming experience. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by critics regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Gameplanet highlights the inconvenience of requiring a constant online connection for the My Career mode, which can lead to disconnections if the Switch is put on standby during a game. TheSixthAxis mentions that moving between menus and gameplay is not as nippy on the Switch. These criticisms suggest that while the technical performance on the Switch is generally good, there are some minor issues that may affect the overall experience. Moving on to the PlayStation 4 platform, the critics' opinions regarding the technical performance of NBA 2K20 are mixed. COGconnected states that multiplayer games functioned without connection issues, indicating a positive experience. Cheat Code Central also mentions fewer connection issues and bugs compared to the previous year's release, which is seen as an improvement. However, God is a Geek points out that load times in MyCareer can be a pain, suggesting a potential negative aspect of the technical performance. Impulsegamer's review lacks specific details about technical performance or stability, making it difficult to gauge their opinion accurately. Twinfinite mentions loading issues, which could be seen as a drawback. We Got This Covered mentions technical issues and bugs present in the game, further indicating potential problems with the technical performance on the PS4. For the Xbox One platform, the opinions of critics regarding the technical performance of NBA 2K20 are generally negative. Game Informer mentions technical issues at launch, such as progress not being awarded and challenges not being accessible. GameCritics highlights clipping and tearing issues, especially during intense moments. GameSpew acknowledges bugs and issues, including crashes and lost progress, but mentions that a patch has been released to address them. Xbox Achievements points out issues with broken servers and long loading times, which negatively impact the overall experience. Xbox Tavern also mentions a spotty online connection, further supporting the notion of technical issues on the Xbox One platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is that NBA 2K20 performs well on the Nintendo Switch, with only minor issues mentioned. The PlayStation 4 platform receives mixed reviews, with some positive aspects such as improved multiplayer functionality, but also negative aspects like long load times and technical issues. On the Xbox One platform, the technical performance of NBA 2K20 is generally seen as problematic, with several critics highlighting issues such as broken servers, long loading times, and technical glitches.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of NBA 2K20 are varied. Many critics highlight the positive aspects of the game that contribute to its replayability. The MyLeague and MyGM modes are frequently praised for their long-term replay value, offering flexibility, variety of options, and deep gameplay experiences (Cubed3, NintendoWorldReport, TheSixthAxis, GameCrate, Gaming Age). These modes allow players to manage and simulate their own basketball teams, providing hours of gameplay. Additionally, the improvements made to the MyTeam mode, such as daily log-in bonuses and natural growth, are mentioned as factors that keep players returning (God is a Geek, Nintendo Life). However, there are some negative aspects of the game that impact its replay value. Several critics mention the presence of microtransactions, particularly in modes like MyCareer and MyTeam, which limit the rewards and push players towards spending real money (Cheat Code Central, Xbox Achievements). The My Team mode is also criticized for resembling an app store game with microtransactions (Gameplanet). Some critics express concerns about the game being too dependent on microtransactions (GameCritics). Additionally, certain modes like MyTeam may not appeal to everyone (Game Revolution). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that NBA 2K20 offers a significant amount of replay value through its various game modes and features. The MyLeague and MyGM modes are consistently praised for their flexibility and depth, while the improvements made to the MyTeam mode are also well-received. The presence of multiple character builds, challenges, and play modes further contribute to the game's replayability (TheSixthAxis). However, the game's reliance on microtransactions and certain modes not appealing to everyone are mentioned as drawbacks that may impact the overall replay value. Despite these criticisms, the overwhelming amount of content and options available in NBA 2K20 is acknowledged as a strong selling point (We Got This Covered, Push Square).