NBA 2K26

About

NBA 2K26 is a single player and multiplayer sport game. It was developed by Visual Concepts and was released on September 4, 2025. It received mostly positive reviews from players.

NBA 2K26 offers an immersive basketball experience featuring multiple modes like MyCAREER, MyTEAM, MyNBA, The W, and Play Now. Players can build their legacy with skill boosts, virtual currency, and exclusive content including packs and special edition items. Competitive play and customization are at the core, delivering authentic NBA action and community challenges.

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70%

Audience ScoreBased on 5,174 reviews

gameplay112 positive mentions

optimization52 negative mentions

The gameplay feels smoother and more responsive compared to previous iterations, making it enjoyable for both casual and competitive players.
MyCareer mode has a more engaging storyline and offers a variety of challenges, making it fun to progress through the game.
The graphics and animations have improved, providing a more immersive basketball experience.

The game is plagued by constant crashes and performance issues, especially on PC, making it frustrating to play.
Microtransactions are heavily emphasized, with a pay-to-win model that forces players to spend money to compete effectively.
The AI teammates often make poor decisions, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences in both MyCareer and online modes.

gameplay
316 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
35%
56%
9%
Overall, NBA 2K26 has received mixed reviews regarding its gameplay, with many players noting significant improvements in smoothness, responsiveness, and shooting mechanics compared to previous iterations. While some enjoy the engaging and dynamic gameplay, others criticize persistent issues such as unbalanced mechanics, AI problems, and the influence of microtransactions on player progression. Despite these drawbacks, many agree that the game feels more enjoyable and rewarding when it functions properly, making it a notable step up from NBA 2K25.
- “The gameplay feels smoother, more responsive, and more rewarding compared to recent years.”
- “The gameplay is extremely fun and satisfying; I love the variation of moves used in different scenarios.”
- “Nba 2k26 delivers the most enjoyable gameplay in years: faster, more dynamic, with improved shooting mechanics and animations.”
- “Pretty much a loading simulator, and when you get past the loading, the gameplay is pretty average, leaning toward the bad side.”
- “If it weren't for the die-hard sellout fans, this game would have little to no player count because of its terrible mechanics.”
- “Gameplay is the same thing over and over and over.”
story
151 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
38%
54%
8%
The "story" aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising the improvements in the MyCareer storyline, noting it as more engaging and immersive compared to previous iterations. However, many also criticize it for being clichéd, linear, and at times frustrating due to gameplay mechanics and character design choices. Overall, while some players find the story enjoyable and a significant upgrade, others feel it lacks depth and originality, leading to a divided reception.
- “The best game I have ever played; the story mode is amazing and should be game of the year.”
- “As a MyCareer lover, I'm so happy that MyCareer has improved so much; the story feels immersive, and the cutscenes make it feel like you’re actually living a career.”
- “The story is engaging, and I like the characters.”
- “The mycareer storyline is garbage and clichéd.”
- “The 'story (if you can even call it that)' is so bare bones.”
- “The mycareer story mode is still completely stupid, uninteresting and an absolute joke!!!”
optimization
135 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
13%
48%
39%
The optimization of NBA 2K26 on PC has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with many players reporting severe performance issues such as stuttering, crashes, and low frame rates, even on high-end systems. While some users noted slight improvements over previous iterations, the consensus is that the game remains poorly optimized, making it nearly unplayable for many. Overall, players are frustrated with the lack of support from the developers in addressing these persistent issues.
- “Overall, if you can look past the optimization issues, this is still one of the better 2K games in years.”
- “Optimization is already good, but it can still be improved further in 2K27.”
- “The combination of smooth performance, great visuals, and the flexibility to tweak settings exactly how I want has completely won me over.”
- “Despite the insanely bad optimization on PC, this is still one of the best 2K games I’ve played.”
- “So poorly optimized for PC that if you don't have the best of the best system, I've crashed 10-15 times now and had the game for 20 hours, even with low settings.”
- “This game is probably the worst optimized game of all time; when your game isn't freezing 12 times in a park game, you'll have the glitch where your settings all change that has been in 2K on PC for years.”
graphics
125 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
30%
65%
5%
The graphics in NBA 2K26 receive mixed reviews, with some players praising the improved realism and detail, particularly in player models and arenas, while others criticize the optimization issues that lead to poor performance on PC, especially for those without high-end hardware. Many users note that while the visuals have seen some enhancements compared to NBA 2K25, they still feel underwhelming and similar to previous iterations, with persistent graphical bugs and compatibility problems, particularly on AMD graphics cards. Overall, the game showcases impressive graphics for those with capable systems, but struggles significantly for players with lower-end setups.
- “The graphics are outstanding, with incredible attention to detail in player models and arenas, and the in-game atmosphere perfectly captures the intensity of real NBA games.”
- “The gameplay’s smoother, the graphics look insane, and the new animations make every drive and shot feel more realistic.”
- “The graphics have improved a lot – the players, lighting, and on-court movements look much more realistic.”
- “The graphics are ridiculously blurry.”
- “Graphics look like they're from 2007.”
- “Game has not really changed graphically in like 5 years; how are brand new dev teams outperforming you?”
stability
114 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
6%
1%
93%
The stability of the game has been widely criticized, with numerous users reporting frequent crashes, freezes, and various glitches that render it nearly unplayable, especially on PC. Many players have experienced issues such as black screens, phantom inputs, and significant performance drops, leading to frustration and a lack of confidence in the game's optimization. While some users noted minor improvements, the overall consensus is that the game is plagued by technical problems that need urgent attention from the developers.
- “Also, it runs great on my ROG Ally running SteamOS.”
- “No cheats, no glitches, nothing.”
- “The game feels and runs great on my PC.”
- “I can't even play the game for longer than 5 minutes before random glitches start happening. Whenever I finish the MyCareer intro, the game either goes to a black screen or crashes to desktop. I gave up on trying to play MyCareer. Additionally, when I'm in a game after 3 minutes, I can't even pass the ball through the air; I can only bounce pass, and the NPCs are constantly getting out of bounds violations, making the game borderline unplayable.”
- “Do not get this game on PC; it is very buggy. When I say buggy, I 100% mean it. The game freezes all the time, and I lose constant progress due to crashes.”
- “This game is probably the worst optimized game of all time. When your game isn't freezing 12 times in a park game, you'll have the glitch where your settings all change. There are way too many bugs that don't get fixed, and the game literally freezes constantly, like every third possession for 5 seconds. It has been in the game for like 3 years, and it would be good if they actually cared about 2K on PC, but they don't.”
monetization
54 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
9%
45%
46%
The monetization in the game has been widely criticized for its heavy reliance on microtransactions, which many players describe as predatory and excessively costly. Users report that the in-game currency, VC, is difficult to earn through gameplay and can be easily purchased, leading to a frustrating grind for those who do not want to spend additional money. Overall, the monetization strategy is seen as a significant detractor from the gaming experience, overshadowing the enjoyment of the gameplay itself.
- “Monetization is straight-up demonic—first there’s one meta, you grind builds and dump cash, then boom, patch drops, meta shifts, and suddenly your three builds are garbage.”
- “While the on-court gameplay is good and some offline modes such as MyNBA and Eras are good, the microtransactions and forced online elements of MyCareer are disgusting.”
- “However, the game is predatory with microtransactions as the main currency in-game is hard to grind for and can be purchased easily.”
- “It's unfortunate because it's maybe the greediest game in human history in terms of in-app purchases.”
- “It's a predatory tactic to lure people in for the even more extremely unrealistic offline modes where you are constantly manipulated to spend money on microtransactions just to not have a miserable time.”
grinding
30 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Reviews on the aspect of "grinding" highlight a mixed experience, with some players appreciating the reduced grind compared to previous iterations, while others find it still excessively tedious and time-consuming. Many express frustration over the necessity of grinding for upgrades and badges, often feeling compelled to spend real money to avoid the grind. Overall, while some enjoy the grind as part of the gameplay, others see it as a barrier to immersion and enjoyment, particularly in modes like MyCareer.
- “It breaks all immersion, it breaks the fantasy, it makes it a tedious experience.”
- “And if someone wanted to try the story mode (my career), they'd be forced to endure excruciating grinding and a cringe-worthy, stupid, and horrible story.”
- “Be prepared to either spend 4-8 hours a day grinding for rewards that provide marginal improvement to your gameplay experience or spending hundreds if not thousands.”
music
16 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
56%
25%
19%
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising the soundtrack for its variety and quality, highlighting tracks like "Blinding Lights" and other popular songs. However, others criticize the audio levels, noting that the music can be excessively loud and that certain tracks, including a fully Chinese song, feel out of place in an American basketball game. Overall, while there are standout tracks, many players feel the soundtrack could benefit from further improvement.
- “The music is amazing this year.”
- “Love it, amazing song list.”
- “This game has bangers; there are so many good songs in the main menu where you choose the mode you want to play in.”
- “The first hour's music and audio is so loud that you can't turn it down.”
- “I found the music atrocious, so I turn it off as soon as possible.”
- “The soundtrack makes my ears bleed with tone-deaf rappers.”
humor
7 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor in the game is often derived from its absurdities and the community's reactions, with players finding amusement in its instability and the exaggerated scenarios, such as facing oversized opponents. While some critiques highlight the game's flaws, they also acknowledge its comedic elements, making for a mixed but entertaining experience. Overall, the humor is a blend of situational comedy and player interactions, despite the backdrop of microtransactions and industry concerns.
- “This game is very good and funny, until a 7'4" center is guarding you :)”
- “Shot release is funny ...”
- “I mean MP is a little too cocky, but it's funny to watch it.”
replayability
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
17%
33%
50%
The game's replayability is significantly impacted by the need to invest in character upgrades, which can create barriers for players. However, those willing to engage deeply and spend money may find substantial replay value, especially with recent improvements in gameplay performance on platforms like the Steam Deck. Overall, while some players express frustration, others appreciate the enhancements and ongoing support for the PC version.
- “Gameplay on the Steam Deck has also improved and is now much smoother and more playable.”
- “The replayability of the game is heavily diminished without that.”
- “There is definitely replayability and length if you get into it and invest some money to get past the money barriers.”
- “-replayability/length:”
emotional
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Reviews highlight a lack of emotional engagement in the game, criticizing it as a mere casino simulation that may negatively impact emotionally vulnerable players. The gameplay is described as overly focused on mechanics rather than genuine emotional connection, leading to frustration and disappointment. Overall, the emotional experience is deemed unsatisfactory, with players feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.
- “Because that's what you do, when someone makes you feel as alive as you've made me feel.”
atmosphere
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
75%
25%
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its outstanding graphics and attention to detail, effectively capturing the intensity of real NBA games. While the offline modes enhance the immersive experience, online play and microtransactions detract from it. Additionally, smoother animations contribute positively to the overall atmosphere.
- “The graphics are outstanding, with incredible attention to detail in player models and arenas, and the in-game atmosphere perfectly captures the intensity of real NBA games.”
- “What a truly nice atmosphere this game brings to the table.”
- “The animations are also smoother and better, which really adds to the atmosphere.”
- “Its atmosphere and offline modes shine, but online play and microtransactions undermine the experience.”
character development
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Character development in the game has been criticized for poor design choices, which detracts from the overall experience. While the story mode and gameplay have their merits, issues such as bugs and pay-to-win mechanics overshadow the potential for meaningful character growth.
- “The character development feels shallow and uninspired, making it hard to connect with any of the protagonists.”
- “I was disappointed by the lack of meaningful choices in character progression; it feels like a missed opportunity.”
- “The characters are one-dimensional and fail to evolve throughout the game, leaving me feeling disconnected from the story.”