GAME REVIEW: NBA Live 08 for Xbox 360

By Lex Eskobar “The Game Bud”

Sports games are not the first choice for this game bud when sitting back in my smoky living room firing up one of my many video game systems. It’s rare that I can find a sports game that actually holds my interest for more than a few plays. I do, however, enjoy a good game of basketball. When I was younger I couldn’t get enough of the EA Sports basketball series on Sega Genesis. Bulls vs Lakers, Lakers vs Celtics, and the rest of them were all really fun to play. Other than those, I enjoyed the original NBA Jam series and the first release of EA’s NBA Street.

When the Xbox 360 first came out, one of the first titles to be released was NBA Live 07. Graphically it looked impressive but control wise and just plain playability, Live 07 was lacking. I played it, had some good times, cursed at how annoying it was to play online, and definitely noticed how choppy it looked. In all honesty, the best part of that game was the practice screen that loaded up right when the game starts - the futuristic gym setting that allowed you and up to 3 other players to shoot hoops with no scoring or rules was an easy-to-access, fun thing to do while stoned. Those of you who played it know what I’m talking about.

It’s a new year, and a new opportunity for EA to answer the prayers of the many NBA Live fans all over that voiced their opinions about EA’s previous release. Good news gamers; EA has heard your complaints and went out of their way to address them. So much in fact, that they even made a 4 part miniseries that can be downloaded off of Xbox Live that points out all the new features and how much better they are.

To go through a list of everything that is new in this game would be way too boring but let me just say that if you played previous versions on the 360, you will notice a major difference. The players move way more smoothly and the game feels like it could be called a simulation. The sounds and the TV style presentation are all there in a shiny package that looks great on an HD Television.

One new addition worth noting is the “hot spots” feature. With the press of a button, the player can bring up a color-coded chart over the court that shows where their player is the strongest when it comes to shooting. It shows their “hot spots.” Another new addition is the “go-to moves” which work like mini special moves for certain characters who have signature movements and mannerisms.

Overall the game’s pace and effects made it really fun to play high. Getting 4 people on the same team is an excellent way to chill after hitting the bong and the season mode is great for 1 to 4 people also. Slow load times aside, this game is fun for anybody who remotely likes console basketball. I give it 4 out of 5 pot leaves.