What is the best NBA 2K game?

From Jordan-era cover legends to modern MyCareer epics, every generation of the franchise squares off. Which one still rules the court?

1

NBA 2K16

A 2015 release with a Spike Lee-directed MyCareer, praised for depth and creative freedom.

1000pts

2

NBA 2K12

The 2011 game celebrated for its landmark Greatest mode featuring legends.

756pts

3

NBA 2K19

A 2018 release with a well-received MyCareer chapter and smooth gameplay.

597pts

4

NBA 2K14

The 2013 next-gen entry that solidified 2K as the dominant basketball franchise.

596pts

5

NBA 2K20

A 2019 release praised for its balanced MyCareer story and mechanics.

517pts

6

NBA 2K24

The 2023 release headlined by a Kobe Bryant Mamba Moments tribute mode.

517pts

7

NBA 2K17

A 2016 sequel that expanded MyCareer and refined the on-court gameplay.

423pts

8

NBA 2K23

A 2022 release with a refreshed Jordan Challenge and improved shooting.

423pts

9

NBA 2K18

The 2017 entry that introduced the Neighborhood open-world hub.

423pts

10

NBA 2K21

The 2020 cross-generation launch title for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

423pts

11

NBA 2K11

The 2010 entry famed for its Jordan Challenge mode, widely called the series peak.

423pts

12

NBA 2K10

The 2009 entry that added the My Player career mode for the first time.

423pts

13

NBA 2K13

The 2012 entry with a Jay-Z executive-produced presentation and a beloved MyTeam mode.

172pts

14

NBA 2K9

The 2008 entry that won awards as the best basketball sim of its year.

172pts