NBA Live 2000 (1999)

by Christopher April 17, 2024

written by Christopher April 17, 2024 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Simulator, Sport
Platforms: Nintendo 64, PlayStation
Developers: EA Sports
Publishers: EA Sports, Electronic Arts

NBA Live 2000: A Legendary Basketball Simulation

Released in 1999, NBA Live 2000 is a groundbreaking basketball simulation game that set new standards for the genre. Developed by EA Sports, the game features realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and a deep roster of legendary NBA players from different eras.

Gameplay

NBA Live 2000 offers a wide range of gameplay modes, including:

Exhibition: Play a single game against the AI or a friend.
Season: Manage your favorite NBA team through a full 82-game season.
Playoffs: Compete in the NBA playoffs for a chance to win the championship.
Dynasty: Take control of an NBA franchise and guide it to success over multiple seasons.

The gameplay in NBA Live 2000 is smooth and responsive, with players moving and reacting realistically. The game features a variety of offensive and defensive moves, allowing players to execute a wide range of plays. The AI is also challenging, providing a realistic and engaging experience.

Graphics and Presentation

For its time, NBA Live 2000’s graphics were some of the best in the industry. The player models are detailed and well-animated, and the arenas are rendered with impressive accuracy. The game also features a variety of camera angles and replays, allowing players to experience the action from different perspectives.

The presentation in NBA Live 2000 is also top-notch. The game features commentary from legendary sportscaster Marv Albert, and the menus and interfaces are easy to navigate. The game also includes a variety of music tracks that add to the atmosphere.

Rosters

One of the most unique features of NBA Live 2000 is its roster of legendary NBA players. The game includes over 150 players from different eras, including:

Michael Jordan
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Magic Johnson
Larry Bird
Wilt Chamberlain
Bill Russell

These players are divided into five All-Star teams, representing the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. Players can use these teams instantly, but to use the players as regular players (e.g. traded, played on regular NBA Teams) they needed to be unlocked.

Legacy

NBA Live 2000 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and deep roster of legendary players. NBA Live 2000 is considered by many to be one of the greatest basketball simulation games of all time.

The NBA Live series has continued to grow and evolve over the years, but NBA Live 2000 remains a classic that is still enjoyed by many fans today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and deep roster of legendary players make it a timeless classic that is still worth playing today.

Conclusion

NBA Live 2000 is a legendary basketball simulation game that set new standards for the genre. The game’s realistic gameplay, stunning graphics, and deep roster of legendary players make it a must-play for any fan of basketball video games. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the NBA Live series or a newcomer to the genre, NBA Live 2000 is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.