"Just like real basketball!"

Epiphanies are a rare occurrence for me, but last night I had a pretty big one. It involved NBA Jam and how amazing it is. I was playing it with a friend, when suddenly it hit me: "I need to write a review for this beautiful game." So here I am.

PRESENTATION:
One or two players can play two-on-two basketball. And that's about it. And it's awesome.
PRESENTATION: 9/10

GRAPHICS:
NBA Jam has very crisp graphics that really capture the images of the players in it. That is, on the Team Select screen. When you're actually playing, it's difficult to tell the difference between the players if they are the same race. Nonetheless, the animations are fun and the figures really do look nice.
GRAPHICS: 8/10

SOUNDS:
"BOOM-SHACKA-LACKA." "HE'S HEATING UP!!" "HE'S ON FIRE!!!" "OVERTIIIIIIME!!" What more needs to be said?

Oh, the music is awesome. There are like three tracks and they consist of bouncy basslines and cool melodies. It makes my ears tickle with delight.
SOUNDS: 10/10

GAMEPLAY:
This is the type of old school game that ages beautifully. The gameplay is incredibly simple but you get drawn into it within seconds.

It's two v. two, and you and a friend can either play against each other or on the same team. You can also play alone, which isn't quite the same, but hey, it's there just in case.

When dribbling, you can pass and shoot. Dunking is a big part of Jam, and if you work your turbo mode right you will do the most beautiful slam dunk you have ever seen. Defensively, you can steal, push and block. There are no free throws--just back and forth basketball with two people on a team. I love it.

You also have a turbo meter, which enables better luck with your shots and prettier dunks. Similarly, if you get several baskets in a row, the announcer shouts "HE'S ON FIRE!" This outcry means you're kicking ass--unlimited turbo and better chances at making your baskets. But be careful, because you lose it the moment anyone else makes a basket.

It takes only seconds to get the hang of, but the competition is so intense that it never gets stale. Whether you're playing with or against a friend, a good time is guaranteed.
GAMEPLAY: 9/10

LASTING APPEAL:
Well let's seeeeee.... It's been 16 years and we're still playing NBA Jam. It speaks for itself.
LASTING APPEAL: 10/10

OVERALL:
Simple, intense and addictive gameplay make NBA Jam a true classic. THIS GAME'S ON FIRE!!!
OVERALL: 9.4/10

Thanks for reading =)

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/28/09

Game Release: NBA Jam (US, 1993)