8.0

Review: NBA 2K26

With NBA 2K26, Visual Concepts returns with an ambitious follow-up aiming at refinement over revolution. The game builds on the foundations of its predecessors and delivers a visually stunning, technically improved basketball experience. However, well-known pain points such as microbusinesses and AI-problems continue to dampen the overall experience.

The most striking innovation in NBA 2K26 is the expansion of the Proplay system, using real NBA images to generate animations. This technology ensures:

• Natural movements: Players no longer slide unnaturally across the field, but move with weight and intention.

• Improved off-ball AI: Teammates position themselves smarter, anticipate screens better and make room for drives.

• Physical interactions: Box-outs, rebounds and contact moments feel tangible and credible.

The shooting system Has been taken care of. The renewed shotmeter provides clear visual feedback and responds better to timing and position. The result is a more satisfying shooting experience, especially for players who find their rhythm.

Where the attacking gameplay shines, the defensive AI Back. In situations with fast ball rotation or pick-and-rolls, the AI sometimes reacts slowly or imprecisely. Help defense is inconsistent, and switches are not always logical. This can lead to frustration in competitive matches, especially online.

However, the gameplay offers sufficient depth for players who are willing to adapt. Manual control and positioning are rewarded, and the game feels more responsive than ever.

NBA 2K26 offers a rich range of game modes, each with their own focus and target audience:

This year's storyline in MyCAREER is more focused on choices and consequences. Your carrièThe Commission is proposing toïBetween interviews, sponsors and team dynamics. Integration with The City is smoother, with less loading times and more seamless transitions between story and online gameplay.

This online hub is optimized with:

• Faster matchmaking

• New events and seasonal content

• More social interaction and team functions

Yet The City remains overwhelming for new players, and emphasis on VC makes progression slow without purchasing

.

MyTEAM introduces new maps, challenges and seasonal goals. The draft mode has been improved and there are more single player options. Unfortunately, the system remains heavily dependent on Virtual Currency, making competitive decks hard to build without paying.

For strategists, MyNBA is a highlight. With 30 unique storylines per team, dynamic contract negotiations and deep scouting this is the most extensive franchise mode so far. The interface is clearer and simulation results are more realistic.

Graphical NBA 2K26 is a pearl. The PS5 uses its power optimally:

• Player models are detailed and expressive

• Stadiums vibrant atmosphere, with dynamic audience effects

• Exposure and shadows create a cinematic look

The soundtrack is energetic, with a mix of hip-hop, pop and electronic music. Comments are extensive and dynamic, although some phrases remain repetitive during longer sessions. The ambient sounds sneakers on the parquet, the cheers of the audience reinforce the immersion.

Despite all the improvements, it remains VC model A tricky point. Whether you want to upgrade your MyPLAYER or build a competitive MyTEAM, you can quickly get to virtual currency. The earning ratio is low, making gravel or purchases inevitable.

Thisëers an unfair gap between players who pay and those who do not. It undermines the sense of reward and accessibility, especially in online modes.