Preview: NBA Ballers: Chosen One

The arcade hoops franchise that isn’t NBA Street returns with plenty of bling and gravity defying moves. But unlike the grandpappi of the series, NBA Jam, you’re following along with Chuck D and some sort of story. Really…can’t we just hurl our flaming balls at the net?



You play as an up-and-coming baller who tests his mettle against NBA pros in their off time. If you’re looking to highlight your court skillz (notice the “z,” for we are hip and happening at Blend Games) you may want to look elsewhere. NBA Ballers: Chosen One is firmly entreanched in the fighting game genre. You may not uppercut an opponent and then throw a spear through his chest, but there are “Shut ‘Em Down” moves that employ a timed button press. Yes, there’s nothing like going for an easy layup and having to hit “X” followed by “B” and then tap “A.”

Personally I’ve lost interest in any sports game that does not include “NHL” somewhere in the title. But if you’re looking for something a little less intense on the simulation side of things, NBA Ballers: Chosen One just might be worth a look.