NBA Courtside 2 Featuring Kobe Bryant

"THIS is how you make a sequel!!!"

Introduction
NBA Courtside 2 featuring Kobe Bryant is the sequel to the successful Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside. NBA Courtside 2 improves nearly everything that was lacking in the original game such as court physics, sound, graphics, AI as well as gameplay modes. The rosters have been updated to the rosters used in the 98-99 NBA season. Kobe Bryant is on the cover of the game, as usual.

Graphics: 10/10

If you're used to blocky graphics on the N64, this game will definitely surprise you. The graphics are unbelievably good. The bodies of NBA players are properly proportioned, the jerseys are no longer blurred as they were in the first game, so you can clearly read the name, number and team logo on them. Believe it or not, but this series' framerate has improved even more in NBA Courtside 2. Players move very smoothly up and down the court, their shots look a lot more realistic and dunks are more spectacular than ever. The detail on the players' faces is mind-blowing. The player's faces are shaped just like their real life counterparts, and the face itself looks as accurate as an actual picture. This is the first N64 basketball game where you can look at a player model's face and know who the player is. There are more reflections on the shiny hardwood than before. All in all, I'm very, very impressed with how well the graphics have improved in this installment of the series.

Sound: 8/10

The music in the menus has been changed from the funky beat of Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside to a more faced-paced and rhythmic beat. Although the original game's music in the menus sounded a lot more like a basketball game's music, this game's music isn't all that bad either. It's only a minor complaint. What really sets this game apart from its predecessor is that it has in-game commentary by Chick Hearn and Stu Lantz. The announcers have so many different quotes that they rarely ever get repetitive. The sound effects are also very good. The players grunt, shoes squeak, the ball swishes through the net and the crowds remain the same.

Controls: 10/10

The controls haven't changed at all from the previous game, so anyone who has played Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside will be able to play this game as soon as they get it. Since the controls are so simple, any gamer that is new to the series will be able to pick it up and learn how to play in a short amount of time.

Gameplay: 10/10

Just like in the previous game, NBA Courtside 2 featuring Kobe Bryant features a Quick Play mode, a Season mode and a Playoffs mode. In this new installment, there is also an arcade mode, where a player can score 5 pointers by standing on the flashing numbers on the court and shooting. There is also a 3 point shootout, which can be quite challenging versus the COM and a practice mode, where you can select a team and practice shooting, dunking, and free throws. The AI in this game is great, they play defense, pass to open teammates, and play with a high basketball IQ. Players have also been given signature moves, so it adds to the game's presentation.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a great sequel to Kobe Bryant in NBA Courtside or just a great basketball game for the N64, look no further. This game has everything you could ask for in a basketball game for the N64. Clearly, Left Field Productions worked hard to make the sequel much better than the original game. And just a quick word of warning, this game's predecessor will be near unplayable once you get used to the realistic feel of this game!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/08/08

Game Release: NBA Courtside 2 Featuring Kobe Bryant (US, 10/31/99)