NBA 2K21 Will Be 'A Vastly Deeper Basketball Experience' on Next-Gen Consoles

Published: October 7, 2020 3:13 PM /

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NBA 2K21 next-gen features cover

NBA 2K21 next-gen features have been detailed in the first of three developer blogs, highlighting how the PS5 and Xbox Series X controllers will allow players to use more precision when facing tough competition.

Although NBA  2K21 has already launched on PC and current-gen consoles, many fans are likely holding out for the next-generation release on the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Now, it looks like that might be a good idea — 2K has revealed that it has some seriously game-changing improvements in store.

NBA 2K21 next-gen features slice

What Are the NBA 2K21 Next-Gen Features?

Many of the new NBA 2K21 next-gen features detailed in today's blog post are centered on the capabilities of next-gen controllers. For example, pulling down on the Pro Stick will start a jump shot, but players can now control the arc of the jump shot by adjusting their stick speed. The enhanced precision of the newer analog sticks will also allow players to more easily control bank shots with fast flicks on the stick.

This enhanced precision does come at a price, however. The Shot Meter is getting some upgrades to make it much more visible, but players will have to hit the window just right. If you miss the ideal timing window, you'll miss the shot entirely on next-gen consoles.

These new challenges will also be reflected in optional changes to layup timing. Layup timing is disabled by default on next-gen consoles, but skilled players can opt to turn it on. Making this choice will give you even greater control over your layups, but you'll also have to hit the correct timing window or you'll miss these shots, too.

Not all of these improvements are about the controller, though. The more powerful tech in the PS5 and Xbox Series X has allowed 2K to enhance the precision of the game in certain areas. The next-gen version of NBA 2K21 will have better 3-point line detection and improved ball physics code will make passes and alley-oops behave more realistically.

Mainly, these improvements are centered on improvements to the game if players can manage good enough precision. Ball handling, signature moves, park handles, and more have all benefitted from the new hardware and software tech available on the PS5; you can read about all of the NBA 2K21 next-gen features in detail in the first of three developer blog posts. You'll be able to enjoy all of these new features by pre-ordering NBA2K21 for PS5 or Xbox Series X starting at $69.99 or your regional equivalent.

What do you think of the NBA 2K21 next-gen features? Do you think 2K will port these changes to the PC at a future point? Let us know in the comments below!

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A photograph of TechRaptor Senior Writer Robert N. Adams.
| Senior Writer

One of my earliest memories is playing Super Mario Bros. on the Nintendo Entertainment System. I've had a controller in my hand since I was 4 and I… More about Robert N