The Best PlayStation 2 Basketball Games
If you owned a PS2 at any time during your life, then it's safe to say there were probably a few basketball games in your collection. With so many great options to choose from, there was never a shortage of games to play for fans of the genre. Since some games were much better than others, we've decided to rank the best PS2 basketball games of all time.
This list features the most popular and best-selling basketball games that were released for the PlayStation 2. While many of these games were console exclusive, we're allowing non-exclusives to be a part of the list as well. This poll features NBA Street, NBA 2K, and more.
Vote for your favorite video games below.
- 1Apr 28 2003
- Developer: EA Canada
Just like jam on your morning toast, NBA Street Vol. 2 spread thick an addictive blend of hip-hop culture and over-the-top street basketball action. The game didn't pursue an intricate storyline, focusing more on fast-paced gameplay with emphasis on tricks and dunks that made you feel like a bona fide baller. Its flashy graphics, funky soundtrack, and the 'Gamebreaker' mechanic left an indelible mark on arcade-style sports gaming.
- 2Jun 18 2001
- Developer: EA Canada, Electronic Arts
The first dance into the limelight, NBA Street pooled in the thrill of alley-hoops and pick-up games, wrapped in a 3-on-3 basketball format. Without a profound story to narrate, it used its robust gameplay mechanics to facilitate a gritty, raw version of basketball, providing gamers with a unique experience. It caused a real splash in the sports gaming genre, setting the tone for future installments and arcade-style games.
- Developer: EA Canada
NCAA March Madness 06 brought the heat of the college basketball season to your fingertips; no specific story here, but a showcase of rising talent. The gameplay introduced the ground-breaking "Lockdown Stick," amplifying defensive strategies. It managed to capture the palpable, electric atmosphere of the college basketball scene, influencing how later college sports games presented themselves.
- 42004
- Developer: Visual Concepts
ESPN NBA 2K5 navigated the full-court press with its simulated take on NBA culture, a somewhat neutral narrative, but impressive gameplay. Besides improved graphics, the addition of the '24/7 mode,' blending RPG elements with sports, scored it major kudos. It slammed-dunked into the heart of sports gamers, setting a new standard for future editions of the franchise.
- 52004
- Developer: EA Canada
NBA Live 2005 packed a punch, introducing 'Freestyle Air' and the 'All-Star Weekend,' changing the landscape of NBA simulated games. Though story wasn't its strongest suit, gameplay fidelity drove its appeal with a strategic depth experienced in shooting, dribbling, and player control. It raised the bar for future NBA game installations with these gameplay mechanics.
- 62003
- Developer: Acclaim Studios Austin
NBA Jam turned up the heat, meshing irreverent humor with exaggerated gameplay, void of a detailed storyline. Its 2-on-2 format and iconic "on fire" mode made it a slam-dunk with fans. Its touch of whimsy shot hoops around other games, rejuvenating the basketball genre with its over-the-top action.
