In the second attempt from Acclaim, they brought a perfect simulation version of the NBA basketball tournament in 2002. Compared to the previous version of NBA Jam 2001, this game has a number of improvements in the map and motion processing technology to enhance the user experience, albeit on a handheld system. However, the rules of the tournament do not remain 100%. It is complete with an enormous player system with 29 famous teams from all around the world.
Do you know Michael Jordan or Allen Iverson? They are only 2 in 140. Obviously, in terms of design, they have a very different appearance, height, and techniques. The factors that decide whether he was that good or not are totally based on the indicators of techniques, speed, as well as fitness. However, it could not be evolved during the game, because NBA Jam 2002 is not about RPG.
In terms of gameplay, you will control your basketball team on the field, with the goal of putting the ball into the opponent’s basket to score. When the time is up, the score will be the measure to determine the result of the whole match. Available skills include moving, passing, and pitching. Of course, if you want to steal the ball, you need to use tricks, combine with teammates, and even knock the opponent down. Overall, we can see that this simulator is not so close to reality, because the number of people on a pitch is reduced to a maximum of 4.
Regarding modes, there are six options for gamers to choose from, consists of Practice Mode, Jam Mode, Horse Mode, Quick Game, Season Game, and Playoffs. But not every aspect is worth the attention. If you have never played the previous versions before, then spend some time in Practice and Horse modes. They can help you to become a professional player through typical situations, which you might encounter on the playing field. Meanwhile, Jam and Season are the places that bring more than 28 seasons, making up the majority of the game.
If I have to choose one prominent feature to mention in, then it definitely is the ability to enhance the accuracy of a shot for characters. It adopts two mechanisms, either using items or using the accumulated energy bar when it is fully charged. Meanwhile, in terms of lack, it must be the connection feature. This left the NBA Jam 2002 isolated, unable to process transactions with other equipment, only stuck in matches with AI.
