Summary
- Release Year: 1998
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Nintendo 64
- Developers: Left Field Productions
- Publishers: Nintendo
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside: A Nostalgic Look Back at the Lakers Legend’s First Signature Game
Released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside was a groundbreaking basketball simulation game that captured the excitement and energy of the NBA. Featuring a young Kobe Bryant on the cover, the game was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies and earning a Player’s Choice designation.
Gameplay
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside features fast-paced, 5-on-5 basketball gameplay. Players can choose from a variety of teams and players, including all 29 NBA teams and their 1997-1998 rosters (with the exception of Michael Jordan, who was not in the players’ association at the time and is renamed “Roster Player #98”).
The game offers three main game modes: Exhibition, Season, and Playoffs. In Exhibition mode, players can select two teams and play a single game. In Season mode, players can simulate an entire NBA season, or they can play each game individually. In Playoffs mode, players can compete in the NBA playoffs, starting with the first round and working their way through the Eastern and Western Conference Finals to the NBA Finals.
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside features a variety of gameplay options, including the ability to adjust the game difficulty, the quarter length, and the game rules. Players can also choose to play with or without commentary from Marv Albert and Steve Kerr.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside featured impressive graphics and sound. The character models were well-animated, and the game’s environments were detailed and realistic. The game also featured realistic sound effects and commentary from Marv Albert and Steve Kerr.
Legacy
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside was a major success for Nintendo and helped to establish Kobe Bryant as one of the most popular players in the NBA. The game was also a critical success, with many reviewers praising its gameplay, graphics, and sound.
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside is still fondly remembered by many gamers today. It is considered to be one of the best basketball games ever made, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers.
Kobe Bryant’s Legacy
Kobe Bryant was one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He was a five-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, and 18-time NBA All-Star. Bryant tragically died in a helicopter crash in January 2020, but his legacy continues to live on.
Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside was a fitting tribute to a young player who was on the cusp of greatness. The game captured Bryant’s energy and excitement, and it helped to introduce him to a new generation of fans.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
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