NBA Live 15 Hands-On Impressions – Night and Day

For the past several years if anyone mentioned playing an NBA game, chances are they were referring to 2K. Neck and neck in 2010, EA Sports released NBA Live 10 while 2K Sports dropped NBA 2K10. But it was the next move that pulled NBA Live out of the limelight; cancelling NBA Elite 11.

NBA 2K rapidly became “the” household name for basketball fans while others tried holding on to an ounce of hope that Live would make its triumph comeback; EA fans, that year has come. Now I know that may seem rather hard to believe, but the product will definitely speak for itself in less than a month.

I had the opportunity to play NBA Live 15 and it truly screams for well-deserved recognition. The very first thing that pushes NBA Live 15 to the next level is graphics. NBA Live 14 and 15 in comparison embodies the phrase night and day. Playing as the Cavilers taking on the L.A. Lakers, Lebron was Lebron! The facial details were genuine; tattoos were spot on with much better lighting (similar to Madden NFL 15) and the shoe game is on point, increasing its overall realism and authenticity.

It’s all well spotted as new camera angles bring the player closer to the court. And with over 1000’s of new animations, including post-play celebrations, prepare to indulge and embrace NBA Live 15.

The in-game experience has also been revamped. Dribble animations are much smoother in NBA Live 15 giving you better control and responsiveness. In addition, you can sense weight detection as you utilize certain players. Don’t be surprised if it one up 2K15 this year.

A gift and a curse in NBA Live 15 to some may be shooting free throws. While there are new indicators to help you fine tune each player shot during gameplay, NBA 2K gamers will have a challenge transitioning at the line. In NBA 2K free throws are timed based on when the player begins to release the ball, feeling quite natural. In Live 15 however, the release is based on when your player bends his elbows right before shooting. Just remember, practice makes perfect!

Also, at least in the build I played, commentary has been improved; but just not as fluid as NBA 2K’s. Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy is a great duo, but at moments the awkward silence began to creep in. And to those that may have been looking forward to Game Face 2.0 and playing as you, I’m sorry to say this year is a no go. We will at least get much more customization options than Live 14.

I had the opportunity to talk to NBA Live Producer, Greg Rinaldi. A lot of questions may be answered here, so read in close!

NBA Live 15 did recently decide to change the release date from October 7^th to October 28^th. Believe me as I’ve had time to play Live 15, it’s just about ready to hit stores. But with the sole purpose of wanting to deliver the best experience this year and earning the loyalty of NBA fans and gamers all over, the Live team wishes to polish a few areas and release right in time for the NBA Season.

If you’re looking to get your hands on NBA Live 15 mark your calendars for October 23^rd; you will be able to fully experience NBA Live 15 five days prior to release via EA Access, exclusively on Xbox One.

If you’ve seen the trailer for NBA Live 15, know that gameplay is physically just as genuine. I am thoroughly excited to pick up NBA Live 15 this year, a decision that I probably wouldn’t have been as easy a few ago. Rinaldi mentioned NBA Live 15 is “the game that’s meant to be.” I’d second that. NBA Live is Back!

Let us know what YOU think below.

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