NBA 2K25 for PlayStation 4

I’ve been playing NBA 2K25 on my PS5 for a few weeks now, mostly because I’m obsessed with the idea of living out a pro career - you know, dunking over real legends and making clutch shots in front of a packed arena. If you’re like me and just want to play as your own dream player, this game delivers. The MyCAREER mode still feels like the heart of the experience, and honestly, the new Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting mechanic? It’s tough at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s satisfying to nail a fadeaway off the dribble like it’s second nature.

The good stuff

ProPLAY™ makes a noticeable difference. The animations feel less stiff, especially when you’re spinning past defenders or transitioning into a jump shot. The dribble engine is smoother than in previous years - I actually felt like I was controlling a real player, not a robot doing button combos. And the AI? It’s smarter. Defenders react more realistically, and they don’t just stand there waiting to be pushed around. I had one game where I faked a drive, spun back, and hit a turnaround jumper - the defender actually bit on the fake. That kind of moment made me pause and go “damn, that was cool.” Also, the City mode still holds up as a fun way to blow off steam. Playing streetball in different neighborhoods feels like a proper escape from the grind of regular season games.

The not-so-good

And then there’s the money stuff. You can spend a ton of cash on cosmetic upgrades, better chemistry items, or even unlock entire player packages. I didn’t mind buying a few things early on, but after a while, I started feeling like I was paying for advantages that shouldn’t matter in a simulation game. Like, why should I need to shell out $20 for a ‘rare’ jersey if I’m just trying to play a few games? It’s not a dealbreaker, but it does make the experience feel uneven. And if you’re not into grinding for in-game currency, it gets frustrating fast. Also, the WNBA mode is there, which is nice, but it’s underdeveloped compared to the main NBA roster. Not a huge issue, but worth noting.

Bottom line

If you’re a hardcore NBA fan who wants to live out their dream on the court, NBA 2K25 for PlayStation 4 on PS5 is still one of the best options out there. It’s not perfect, and the microtransactions are a constant reminder that this isn’t just a game - it’s a business. But if you can ignore the pay-to-win vibe, the gameplay is tight, the visuals are sharp, and the modes are deep enough to keep you hooked. Worth downloading, but only if you’re okay with spending extra cash to fully enjoy it.