NBA 2K24’s PC version yet again lacks next-gen console features

Why it issues: The final three PC editions of NBA 2K have been lackluster in comparison with consoles, which have obtained graphical enhancements and new gameplay features. Offering last-gen updates on PC is probably going essential to accommodate customers with low-end programs, however FIFA on PC reached current-gen parity final yr, whereas Madden will accomplish that this yr.

Visual Concepts and 2K Games have revealed particulars for NBA 2K24, and it’ll seemingly be one other disappointment for PC gamers. Upgraded graphics, new gameplay components, and cross-play shall be unique to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series variations. The webpage highlighting this yr’s content material and upcoming features avoids mentioning the PC version solely. The recreation’s main addition is ProPLAY, which can use actual NBA footage to offer a generational leap within the recreation’s animation high quality.

Although this would be the fourth entry to launch on current-gen consoles, NBA 2K24 would be the first to incorporate cross-play between PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series in all recreation modes. This performance did not make it to PC. Moreover, final yr’s PC port lacked a few of the profession mode features from the current-gen consoles, and the newest version will seemingly be no totally different in that respect.

Whenever sports activities simulation franchises transition between console generations, the developer often waits an additional yr or two to deliver new features to the PC version, basically treating them like last-gen console homeowners. When the improve does come, it causes a dramatic improve in minimal system necessities, negatively affecting the numerous variety of customers enjoying on modest {hardware}.

For the NBA 2K collection, this final occurred with 2K15, and 2K24’s necessities are similar to its nine-year-old predecessor. The really helpful spec lists decade-old chips just like the Intel i5-4430 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 770. The solely doubtlessly important hurdle is the 110 GB storage requirement. The upside is that, like 2K23, this yr’s entry shouldn’t have any bother operating on the Steam Deck or different current handheld gaming PCs.

However, holding the PC version again for 4 years is extreme. Even NBA 2K15 system parity with the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One variations just one yr after these consoles debuted. More lately, EA’s FIFA 23 ended its two-year lag final yr, and Madden 24 will catch up this yr.

NBA 2K24 launches September 8 for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series consoles, and Nintendo Switch. The PC version prices $59.99, whereas the PS5 and Xbox Series editions are $69.99.