NBA 2K14: Newest Info and Latest Buzz Surrounding Impending Release

NBA 2K14 is set to finally hit store shelves on Tuesday, Oct. 1. It's one of the most anticipated sports games of the year and has incredible hype to live up to.

Fortunately, from what the game's creators have shown the public throughout the development process, it seems safe to say the game will live up to expectations and even exceed them.

Plenty of information and a number of videos have been leaked leading up to this week's big release, so keep reading to find out the latest and hottest buzz surrounding NBA 2K14.

Ratings Leak

One of the first things most players do after unwrapping the newest copy of NBA 2K is dive into the rosters. Fans love to see how their favorite players are rated and compare them to other stars around the league.

You can get a head start on that now, as Ronnie Singh—2K Sports' social media manager—has released a number of player ratings on Twitter.

From rookies like Trey Burke, Nerlens Noel and Anthony Bennett to superstars such as Kobe Bryant and LeBron James and veterans like Steve Nash, there are a handful of talents to whet your appetite.

Take a look and drop a line about what you think of these overall ratings in the comments.

Soundtrack

LeBron James, the cover athlete for NBA 2K14, had the unique honor of being allowed to curate the soundtrack gamers will hear up to thousands of times throughout the life of the game.

It's the first time in the series' history that developers and producers have allowed the cover star to have such a big role in something so important.

Remember, the 2K series consistently receives rave reviews for its selection of songs and often features a solid mix of hip-hop and rock from both emerging artists and established superstars.

Fortunately for the fans, it seems King James has done an excellent job of putting together 20 awesome songs to be featured in NBA 2K14.

Take a look at the list and have a listen courtesy of Spotify, via the Associated Press (h/t Sporting News).

Game Play Improvements

When it comes down to it, the meat and potatoes of the 2K series is the game play.

Many people pick up the latest edition of the series every single year just to play a handful of exhibition games against their buddies. It has never failed to deliver on making that an excellent experience, and it should only get better this year thanks to some basic improvements.

One of the various "Developer Diaries" released leading up to the game's launch focused on just that—the various enhancements implemented by the NBA 2K14 team.

Blocking dunks and other basic things have been added for all to enjoy, while court spacing, off-ball movement and other complex changes will be appreciated by advanced hoops junkies.

There's something for everyone here, which is another reason NBA 2K14 looks to be the sports game of the year in 2013.