Alright, let’s do it—NBA Live 14 vs. NBA 2K14.
This is obviously something that’s been near impossible to do in quite awhile, since NBA Live has been non-existent since 2009, according to ASternWarning.com.
NBA Live 2010 was the last time we saw an NBA-themed video game from EA Sports. After that, Electronic Arts produced a bunch of duds.
They tried to change the game’s name in 2011 with the release of “NBA Elite 11,” which failed. There was no attempt at an NBA Live/Elite 12 and “NBA Live 13 was called off before its release.
EA Sports seems to be serious about rebuilding its reputation. They have brought in Executive Producer Sean O’Brien who was previously working in mobile gaming for EA. O’Brien knows he has a ways to go before NBA Live gains back the respect it lost.
"Even as a developer now, when I say I'm working on NBA Live, people kind of snicker at that. Because there are some people that say, 'Oh, that's the game that EA can't make.' We're here to change that," said O’Brien according to GameIndustry International.
NBA 2k14 on the other hand has been on top of his game for the past several years. So it was only right that they partner with the man that has been on top of the NBA for the past several years, LeBron James.
"My friends, family and fans all know how much I love NBA 2K," said the four-time and reigning MVP in a statement according to ESPN.com. "I remember, as a kid, getting so excited for the game to come out and see who was on the cover, and it's amazing to be a part of this great tradition. I love partnerships and opportunities that connect me directly with fans."
As far as comparing the games there might not be much to go on just yet. However we can try to analyze the games using both of their E3 presentations.
The NBA 2k14 e3 trailer featured a digital version of LeBron James. The graphics seem to have gotten even better since last year. Also fan to preorder the game now receiving King James bonus pack. However, it doesn't seem to be anything in terms of new technology-- as opposed to NBA Live 14.
During the e3 presentation of NBA Live 14 Sean O'Brian introduced BounceTek. This new feature allows more creativity in the more authentic feel as you're playing the game.
As far as graphics go for the game it seems the players were a little bit unrealistic in the trailer. DeAndre Jordan and Kyrie Irving seem to be almost the same height and weight.
Fans should not be too worried about NBA 2K14’s lack of a display of its new features. However, it would be nice to see what the game's going to bring later this year.
On the other hand it’s 2K Sports is the company that has the comfort. There is no reason for them to show display their whole hand.
On the subject of cover athlete’s it appears each franchise made the right choice. NBA 2K14, being the best NBA videogame, picked the best player in LeBron James. NBA Live 14, attempting to be the up and coming franchise that wants to return to greatness, picked Kyrie Irving—the up and coming young star who is trying to return the Cleveland Cavaliers to greatness.
This is just the beginning of what we hope will one day be fierce battle for the best NBA videogame on the planet. For now, NBA Live has some catching up to do. Here’s a look at their trailers.
