NBA 2k12: End the Debate
Posted on 09. Mar, 2012 by in News
NBA 2k12’s cover features three of the NBA’s most hallowed stars including Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson. Basketball fans, analysts, and even players are constantly arguing over who the greatest passer, scorer, or over overall player ever was. NBA 2k12 offers gamers the opportunity to essentially “end the debate” meaning that game modes allow these NBA legends to compete in their prime form. Developers at 2k sports captured the signature styles of these elite players from Bird’s fluid jump shot to Jordan dunking over the competition with his tongue hanging out.
Michael Jordan
Weather it was an inter squad practice or the last seconds of the 1995 NBA finals, Jordan could score at will. The 14-time NBA all star could shoot over or drive through any opponent. He was dominant on both defense and offense being second on the all time steals list and forth on the all time made field goals list. His technical skill paired with his physical talents allowed him to dominate every game he played in. He dominated every championship he played in winning a finals MVP for every one of his 6 championships.
Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson didn’t just dominate the game, he changed it as well. He was a 6 foot 9 inch point guard, making it nearly impossible for another player at his position capable of matching up with him. But more than scoring Johnson was able to make his teammates better with a pass first mentality. He leads the NBA in all time assists per game while being second on the overall assists lists. Johnson made the “pass first” style of basketball look cool to aspiring players. The 12-time all star led the “Show Time” Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships.
Larry Bird
Larry Bird may have had the greatest skill set of any NBA player. His lethal jump shot and relentless defense made him one of the most formidable competitors. The 12-time NBA All Star won three championships with the Boston Celtics and was named league MVP another three times. His clutch shooting performances are that of legend around the NBA becoming the first player to shoot 50 percent from the field and 90 percent from the foul line in consecutive seasons. His prolonged back problems finally ended his career after leading the original Olympic dream team to a gold medal in 1992.
The Debate
Part of the interest in constantly trying to rank athletes of different eras is the fact that there is no objective answer since there is no way for these players to compete at their prime physical form. There is also a lot of “what if’s” surrounding the three cover athletes that blemished their respected careers. What if Magic Johnson never contracted HIV and had to end his career early? What if Larry Bird didn’t have the nagging back injuries that dominated his career? Did Jordan leave basketball in his prime to pursue a baseball career?
So whether it be Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordon, or some other player, NBA 2k12 allows fans to end the debate.
