Something to look forward to: Compared to other sports simulation franchises, NBA 2K has waited an unusually long time to bring its PC version up to par with the latest consoles. The gap ends this year, introducing PC users to numerous technical and gameplay-related additions. Although the system requirements have dramatically increased, the game remains playable on Steam Deck.
This week, 2K Games unveiled NBA 2K25, confirming that the PC edition supports the same graphics and features as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles for the first time. The shift has caused a considerable jump in minimum system requirements compared to last year, but the game still isn't particularly demanding.
Aside from visuals, ProPLAY was the main feature that last year's PC version missed out on. The technology uses footage from real-life matches to improve in-game animation quality significantly.
The PC version also gains access to multiple gameplay modes for the first time, including MyNBA Eras management mode, The W, and The City. The PC and current-generation console versions also receive enhancements to these modes and a new environment to explore. The only downside for PC is that crossplay remains exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series.
Additionally, the series sees its first significant increase in minimum system requirements in a decade due to the updated graphics. The title's minimum requirements land close to 2K24's recommended specs. It supports old 4 GB graphics cards like the GeForce GTX 960 and the Radeon RX 570. Furthermore, 2K optimized the game to run on Steam Deck and other PC-based handhelds.
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The game's only notable technical burdens are its 150 GB storage footprint and SSD requirement. Most games strongly recommend an SSD nowadays, but 2K indicates that NBA 2K25 isn't playable on HDDs.
This year's cover art is another first. The All-Star and WNBA editions feature Las Vegas Aces Forward A'ja Wilson as the franchise's first female cover athlete. The move is unsurprising given the recent attention the WNBA has received due to stars like Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink.
Waiting to bring the PC versions of sports games in line with next-generation consoles to accommodate low-spec systems is normal, but waiting until the fifth game on those consoles isn't, and customers have responded with harsh Steam reviews of previous entries. For comparison, FIFA (now called EA Sports FC) transitioned two years ago, and Madden upgraded last year.
The PC version also raised its base price to $69.99 this year, aligning with the $10-higher pricing trend seen with recent triple-A games. NBA 2K25 hits storefronts on September 6 for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series consoles, and Nintendo Switch.