NBA 2K15: Early-Review Roundup for Newly Released Game

I feel safe saying most people like NBA 2K15...a lot. 

After playing the game extensively for almost a week on PlayStation 4, I've come to the conclusion that this is one of the most complete sports video games ever created. I gave it a 9.3 out of 10, but I did point out that server issues could potentially derail this masterpiece. 

The game has been officially released for a little over 24 hours, and there have been a few complaints about stability, especially with the MyTeam mode.

In this day and age, games always seem to be in need of a tweak shortly after release. There won't be a cause to reevaluate the rating unless the issues persist for well over a week.

Where did that rule come from? I made it up.

NBA 2K15 is a complete gaming experience, and there's still tons to enjoy while MyTeam gets its act together. The depth of the game is perhaps its best quality.

Josiah Renaudin of GameSpot writes that "MyLeague provides unparalleled level of customization." Renaudin rated the game a nine out of 10. 

The options available in MyLeague nearly brought a tear to my eye when I initially learned about them. Altering players' motivations, the health of up to 16 body parts, rosters and draft classes is a dream come true for virtual commissioners.

In addition to MyLeague, there's also MyGM, MyPark and online leagues. Even with all those options, it would be hollow if the gameplay wasn't solid. Rest assured it is. 

USA Today Sports' Nick Schwartz also rated the game a nine out of 10. He lauded the gameplay improvements, specifically the defense.

Schwartz said:

"

Visual Concepts has added thousands of new animations to the game, making every trip down the floor feel unique, and every play call just a bit different. Players have an especially weighty feel in 2K15, and they move more realistically around the court, with far less sliding on defense. My favorite change is the rework to steals. The game rewards players who position themselves well and time their actions perfectly, rather than the ones who mash the buttons on players with a high steal rating hoping for a turnover.

"

That observation is correct, but the biggest improvement is the ratio of missed-to-made shots. Last year's game had the tendency to turn into a three-point fest. Good shooters almost never missed open shots, and that just wasn't very realistic.

Thankfully, that's been corrected, and it makes the action so much more enjoyable. Many other publications are apparently holding their reviews back while we learn more about the servers. It's an understandable approach.

Hopefully, the growing pains will be resolved so we can enjoy this awesome creation without any more hiccups.

Follow Brian Mazique, aka FranchisePlay, the Sports Video Game Journalist