NBA 2K23 developer Visual Concepts has revealed new details for changes to dribbling, shooting, defense, and more in the upcoming iteration of the world’s preeminent basketball sim.
“The main pillar for us this year can be summed up with one word: Authenticity,” Visual Concepts wrote in a blog post on gameplay enhancements.
NBA 2K23 introduces a bevy of minor changes, from hanging on the rim after dunks to more realistic shot blocking, but perhaps the biggest changes come in the form of upgraded pro stick dribbling, signature jump shots, and on-ball defense.
The Pro Stick will “introduce a lot of new weapons for both shooting and ball handling,” per Visual Concepts.
Signature jump shots will allow players to control shot speed, release height, defensive immunity, and timing impact.
On-ball defense is being overhauled via a “shading” system that will reward or punish players for biting to the right or wrong side.
It doesn’t sound like NBA 2K23 is trying to reinvent the wheel, but rather refine a tried and true system.
NBA 2K23 is set to launch for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, and PC on September 9th.