First Impressions of NBA 2K17 MyCareer News

First Impressions of NBA 2K17 MyCareer News

A look into news regarding NBA 2K17's newly revamped MyCareer mode, from the story to new features.

A look into news regarding NBA 2K17's newly revamped MyCareer mode, from the story to new features.

Just a week before the release of "The Prelude," Ben Bishop, a Senior Producer at Visual Concepts, has released long-awaited information regarding NBA 2K17's MyCareer mode in the form of a four-page blog post on Sports Gamers Online.  

To say there is hype within the community would be an understatement as YouTubers and gamers alike now find themselves anxiously awaiting for what now could be the best iteration in the series since the NBA 2K11, which many consider the greatest basketball game of all-time. 

There's plenty of information to go dive into, so without further ado, let's see we have on our hands with the NBA 2K franchise's newest installment of one of the most popular game modes in sports gaming history, as well as my first impressions.  

Player Creation

Bishop confirmed nearly all my thoughts on player creation from my analysis of "The Prelude" trailer. In summary, the physicals such as height, weight, and wingspan, as well as an archetype, determine a player's abilities.  For example, adjusting the height of a player, say, from 6'8" to 6'7" may decrease a MyPlayer's dunking, but may increase three-point shooting.  I mistakenly said there was an option to change hand size, but this is not the case. 

The creation menus of previous years have always had a screen explaining to the player's height will determine the attribute cap.  The problem with this was that there was never an explanation of the compromised or enhanced attributes.  It was common sense that a 6'7" Point Guard, the outside shooting would not be as high as that of a 6'3" Point Guard, for example, but other skill sets were a mystery.  Since the MyPlayer/MyCareer mode's inception, the ceiling for a particular attribute was not discoverable until after the MyPlayer's creation. Although a player could assume what traits were subject to be increased or decreased, there was never actual knowledge.  In addition to physical attributes, the franchise took out the ability to choose a playstyle, starting with NBA 2K15, forcing gamers to start from scratch.

In 2K17, this is no longer the case because now we will know the type of player we are creating from the jump.  Changing the cap based on height and wingspan will serve as a way of keeping gamers from cheesing, especially in MyPark.  Choosing a particular archetype is a multilayered decision, as it also decides playstyle.  For instance, a Sharpshooter will not only have to play the game different than a Slasher, but he'll have different attribute groups which can be maxed out.  Revamping the customization menu is just one of the many steps in the right direction, and gives gamers the much-needed freedom of choice.

While on the topic of freedom of choice, let's head into the storyline. 

The Story

Every year, the 2K crew takes a different approach to the storyline, with the latest iteration being a disappointing Spike Lee Joint, which focused the attention on off-the-court matters and didn't give gamers the chance to make decisions.  2K is once again starting fresh this year, but this year, they're doing a complete 180 with the direction of the storyline.

"We wanted to bring the emphasis back on the court to the game of basketball, and with a  much more dynamic and interactive story element," writes Bishop.

Anyone who played NBA 2K16's MyCareer mode knows the storyline followed a linear path, eliminating the freedom of choice, aside from college destination, despite having the tagline "Be the Story."  Due to a predetermined story line, every gamer experienced the same cringe-inducing and tiresome cutscenes.  

NBA 2K17 is doing their best to remedy the mistake that was Livin' Da Dream, giving the player the opportunity to control their destiny, both on and off the court.  Those who play well in college will watch different cutscenes than those who did not perform as well.  The same concept with games in the NBA, as one's MyPlayer will act accordingly after the game based on what occurred it.

The combination of off-the-court and on-the-court action is the first time the 2K series has attempted to mold a story in this particular fashion.  For all the freedom of choice in NBA 2K14 and NBA 2K15, it was somewhat linear in its way.  The extent of the different paths players can take unknown, so it will be interesting to play the game hands on, then share experiences with others and see how the story lines match up.

Bishop then introduces the idea of a Dynamic Duo, which plays into the storyline. "One of the ideas that most resonated with us was the concept of a dynamic duo," writes Bishop.  "Seeing what two young stars can do as they rise together is very intriguing."  The idea of a dynamic duo is a refreshing concept, but not just any player on a current NBA roster can become a MyPlayer's partner in crime.  Thus, Justice Young was born, played by award-winning actor Michael B. Jordan.  

Source: NBA 2K17

Young is "a second round pick on your team that comes in with a bit of a chip on his shoulder, having passed over and second-guessed for most of his basketball career."  Joining Young and the MyPlayer is Denver Levins, an undrafted rookie who flip-flopped between Europe and the D-League, someone who "helps give MyPlayer an outlet and someone to relax with when the pressures are mounting." 

With the addition of Jordan to the team, 2K is making it loud and clear that they're busting out the big guns.  Jordan is no slouch in the acting world, having starred in movies "Fruitvale Station" and "Creed."  The 29-year-old actor is known for his work ethic and commitment to projects, whether it be turning himself into a physical beast for Creed or reaching out to Jerry Sloan as a trainer before the Celebrity All-Star Game. 

Bringing in someone of Jordan's caliber means that his supporting cast would have to be equally seasoned, and 2K has stepped up to the plate, bringing in comedian Hannibal Burris to play "Ice the Barber," and Matt Walsh to play "Hemsley Adson," as the MyPlayer's college coach.  Burris notably starred in a Foot Locker commercial with Kevin Durant, titled "Nicknames," so is a KD cameo during the storyline on our hands?

Source: NBA 2K17

In addition to Burris, Jordan, and Walsh, there will be other characters, from the expected like an agent, assistant coach, team trainer to the  unexpected characters such as a beat reporter and girlfriend."  I'm curious as to how these characters will fit into the mix and the scenarios in which one can interact with them. "All of these characters play important roles in helping him find his way," says Bishop. 

The supporting cast can only shine as bright as their writer, and 2K took no exception by signing on Aaron Covington, a writer/director who co-wrote Creed and has close ties with Jordan.  Covington is a fan of both basketball and 2K, so it would be just to assume he has played past editions of MyCareer, and he's accumulated ideas of his own in the process.

Off the court decisions have an impact on the narrative as well.  For example, "If you're a gym rat like Justice, the two of you will form a strong bond right away.  If you're more outspoken in press conferences and talking to the media, it will have ramifications down the line." I like that 2K is now adding a layer of personality to one's MyPlayer.  In previous editions, it seemed like one could do anything, whether it be putting in a lot of hours in practice or spewing arrogance nonsense in trash, but never see any consequences.  One's MyPlayer could openly diss his teammates during a halftime or post-game press conference, but never see a hit to team chemistry.  Now, every action has a purpose.

Source: NBA 2K17

Orange Juice

"Orange Juice represents the chemistry between MyPlayer and Justice Young," writes Bishop.  "As their relationship develops, Orange Juice becomes a nickname for the two of them and a key element in the story." 

At this point, the 2K crew is opening a dictionary and picking the first word they see, but despite the weird name, this concept is legitimately interesting. 

Bishop goes on to say that if the MyPlayer and Bishop are "locked in," one can not only tell Young to perform a particular action but switch over and control him entirely.  Taking over a second player in Young is a refreshing idea which will add more replayability to the game mode.  Young will most likely have a different playstyle than that of MyPlayer, so being able to switch between the two may help a player win ballgames.  There is no mention of Young's particular playstyle other than he is a raw athlete, but say for example one's MyPlayer is cold, and Young is hot.  Young may not have the tendency to shoot by himself, but by being able to determine his actions or directly play as him, a player will have more control.

Source: NBA 2K17

Off-Court AI & Endorsements

2K is building on last year's off-days with a more flexible schedule, allowing a player to choose more than one course of action per day.  Just like last year, there are the three base options, practice, endorsements, and connections.  Unlike last year, there are windows of time in which one can attend an individual event.  For example, in this screenshot, the Practice Facility is open from 8 AM to 10 AM, but there is a Stance business meeting from 9 AM to 1 PM, so it will be up to a player to prioritize.

Source: NBA 2K17

Speaking of which, 2K has also revamped the endorsement system for MyCareer.  The first bit of information that Bishop throws at us is that we, like rookies in the NBA, will get a shoe deal right from the jump instead of having to wait midway through the season.  Each company is unique and reaps different benefits.

"Some will give you more swag right away, while others will require you to work harder to move up the ladder," writes Bishop.  College play also has an effect on the situation, as the better one plays, the easier it will be to take on a bigger role within the company.

Some endorsements also depend on playstyle.  "Moutain Dew might be looking for a flashier player, while a company like Spalding is more interested in players that exhibit strong ball handling skills," says Bishop.  Players, not just companies, will notice on the court tendencies as well.  Stephen Curry may talk to one's MyPlayer sooner if he makes a lot of deep threes while putting in a lot of work in the gym may entice a phone call from Kobe.  There's more incentive while choosing a company, as some companies will have you be an exclusive to them and them only.  Contracts are also up for negotiation with these companies, whether it be fewer appearances or more VC.

2K's approach to endorsements this season is far more immersive and personal than that of last year, which is obviously a step in the right direction.  There wasn't much to do with endorsements in 2K16, as the game limited the sponsorships to pressing a button and "making appearances." Now, there's much more a dynamic; if a player wants a bigger check, one has to earn it, on and off the court.

Source: NBA 2K17

Live Practice and Doin' Work

In addition to revamping the endorsements, 2K is taking another crack at the practice system with the introduction of "Doin' Work," a meter that fills up every time one's MyPlayer practices in any fashion.  "So now whether you’re in the middle of a Team Practice, working on your shot in the Practice Gym with Justice, or even just shooting around solo in your MyCourt, the Doin’ Work meter is always there tracking your progress," Bishop states.  Live practice is also back.  2K is not only bringing back some of the drills from last year, but adding in new ones, as well as weight lifting. 

Source: NBA 2K17

The main takeaway from the Doin' Work meter is that filling it up allows one to earn more upgrade slots, which allows a user to max out his or her MyPlayer fully.  Doin' Work is a system which rewards players who grind, whether it be in practice or on one's MyCourt.  Gone are the days when a player can go to practice for five seconds before quitting, yet still receiving an attribute upgrade, or simply purchase VC.  Now if a player has a 99 overall, that means a player earned that rank.

What has gone unstated is that one can simultaneously fill the meter while getting better at the game.  For example, if one wants to see if one dribble size-up is more efficient than other, one can practice both on the MyCourt and fill up the Doin' Work meter at the same time.  The same goes for testing out jump shots, layup packages, post moves, so on and so forth.  A player does not have to improve alone, as one's MyPlayer can practice with Young, Levins, or teammates, which fills the meter up faster than a solo practice.

Source: NBA 2K17

MyCourt

MyCourt is back, and just like every other aspect of MyCareer, it's new and improved.  Just like last year, all the features, such as upgrading one's player, checking stats, and playing online with friends, are available, but there a couple of significant changes. 

For one, there are now three different courts, which are unlocked throughout the mode, compared to last season, in which we only had the one base MyCourt to customize.  In the screenshot below, we get a glimpse of one of the most lavish courts, which, just like last year, are fully customizable.

2K incorporates MyCourt into the storyline, where the storyline takes place, as well as is the setting for shootaround with Young, Levins, and other teammates.

It shouldn't be surprising that 2K made the MyCourt more a part of the MyCareer experience considering all of the additions, but it's nonetheless impressive to know that we'll have our fingerprints on the setting of a cutscene.  The court in the screenshot is beautiful, clean, and pristine, and it will be a nice feature to be able to upgrade to bigger and better courts as one's stardom rises.  There were ways last year to customize the court, but because there was only one base layout, it felt as though my design overlapped with that of others.  It still may, but with all the additions the game, I'm expecting there to be a multitude of new ways to make one's MyCourt feel like home.  

Being able to play with teammates and characters in one's MyCourt is an excellent feature as well.  In 2K16, there was a different aura between the shooting around in practice versus on one's MyCourt.  The problem was that teammates and characters could not join one's MyPlayer onto the MyCourt, leaving a lot of space just for one player.  Now, one's MyPlayer will be able to experience the MyCourt with other NPCs, further contributing to the realism and immersion.

Source: NBA 2K17

Texting

It pales in comparison to other features, but there will now be a texting feature in MyCareer.  This texting feature allows for two-way communication with various characters and helps build relationships.  

Source: NBA 2K17

Just a week before the release of "The Prelude," Ben Bishop, a Senior Producer at Visual Concepts, has released long-awaited information regarding NBA 2K17's MyCareer mode in the form of a four-page blog post on Sports Gamers Online.  

To say there is hype within the community would be an understatement as YouTubers and gamers alike now find themselves anxiously awaiting for what now could be the best iteration in the series since the NBA 2K11, which many consider the greatest basketball game of all-time. 

There's plenty of information to go dive into, so without further ado, let's see we have on our hands with the NBA 2K franchise's newest installment of one of the most popular game modes in sports gaming history, as well as my first impressions.  

Player Creation

Bishop confirmed nearly all my thoughts on player creation from my analysis of "The Prelude" trailer. In summary, the physicals such as height, weight, and wingspan, as well as an archetype, determine a player's abilities.  For example, adjusting the height of a player, say, from 6'8" to 6'7" may decrease a MyPlayer's dunking, but may increase three-point shooting.  I mistakenly said there was an option to change hand size, but this is not the case. 

The creation menus of previous years have always had a screen explaining to the player's height will determine the attribute cap.  The problem with this was that there was never an explanation of the compromised or enhanced attributes.  It was common sense that a 6'7" Point Guard, the outside shooting would not be as high as that of a 6'3" Point Guard, for example, but other skill sets were a mystery.  Since the MyPlayer/MyCareer mode's inception, the ceiling for a particular attribute was not discoverable until after the MyPlayer's creation. Although a player could assume what traits were subject to be increased or decreased, there was never actual knowledge.  In addition to physical attributes, the franchise took out the ability to choose a playstyle, starting with NBA 2K15, forcing gamers to start from scratch.

In 2K17, this is no longer the case because now we will know the type of player we are creating from the jump.  Changing the cap based on height and wingspan will serve as a way of keeping gamers from cheesing, especially in MyPark.  Choosing a particular archetype is a multilayered decision, as it also decides playstyle.  For instance, a Sharpshooter will not only have to play the game different than a Slasher, but he'll have different attribute groups which can be maxed out.  Revamping the customization menu is just one of the many steps in the right direction, and gives gamers the much-needed freedom of choice.

While on the topic of freedom of choice, let's head into the storyline. 

The Story

Every year, the 2K crew takes a different approach to the storyline, with the latest iteration being a disappointing Spike Lee Joint, which focused the attention on off-the-court matters and didn't give gamers the chance to make decisions.  2K is once again starting fresh this year, but this year, they're doing a complete 180 with the direction of the storyline.

"We wanted to bring the emphasis back on the court to the game of basketball, and with a  much more dynamic and interactive story element," writes Bishop.

Anyone who played NBA 2K16's MyCareer mode knows the storyline followed a linear path, eliminating the freedom of choice, aside from college destination, despite having the tagline "Be the Story."  Due to a predetermined story line, every gamer experienced the same cringe-inducing and tiresome cutscenes.  

NBA 2K17 is doing their best to remedy the mistake that was Livin' Da Dream, giving the player the opportunity to control their destiny, both on and off the court.  Those who play well in college will watch different cutscenes than those who did not perform as well.  The same concept with games in the NBA, as one's MyPlayer will act accordingly after the game based on what occurred it.

The combination of off-the-court and on-the-court action is the first time the 2K series has attempted to mold a story in this particular fashion.  For all the freedom of choice in NBA 2K14 and NBA 2K15, it was somewhat linear in its way.  The extent of the different paths players can take unknown, so it will be interesting to play the game hands on, then share experiences with others and see how the story lines match up.

Bishop then introduces the idea of a Dynamic Duo, which plays into the storyline. "One of the ideas that most resonated with us was the concept of a dynamic duo," writes Bishop.  "Seeing what two young stars can do as they rise together is very intriguing."  The idea of a dynamic duo is a refreshing concept, but not just any player on a current NBA roster can become a MyPlayer's partner in crime.  Thus, Justice Young was born, played by award-winning actor Michael B. Jordan.  

Source: NBA 2K17

Young is "a second round pick on your team that comes in with a bit of a chip on his shoulder, having passed over and second-guessed for most of his basketball career."  Joining Young and the MyPlayer is Denver Levins, an undrafted rookie who flip-flopped between Europe and the D-League, someone who "helps give MyPlayer an outlet and someone to relax with when the pressures are mounting." 

With the addition of Jordan to the team, 2K is making it loud and clear that they're busting out the big guns.  Jordan is no slouch in the acting world, having starred in movies "Fruitvale Station" and "Creed."  The 29-year-old actor is known for his work ethic and commitment to projects, whether it be turning himself into a physical beast for Creed or reaching out to Jerry Sloan as a trainer before the Celebrity All-Star Game. 

Bringing in someone of Jordan's caliber means that his supporting cast would have to be equally seasoned, and 2K has stepped up to the plate, bringing in comedian Hannibal Burris to play "Ice the Barber," and Matt Walsh to play "Hemsley Adson," as the MyPlayer's college coach.  Burris notably starred in a Foot Locker commercial with Kevin Durant, titled "Nicknames," so is a KD cameo during the storyline on our hands?

Source: NBA 2K17

In addition to Burris, Jordan, and Walsh, there will be other characters, from the expected like an agent, assistant coach, team trainer to the  unexpected characters such as a beat reporter and girlfriend."  I'm curious as to how these characters will fit into the mix and the scenarios in which one can interact with them. "All of these characters play important roles in helping him find his way," says Bishop. 

The supporting cast can only shine as bright as their writer, and 2K took no exception by signing on Aaron Covington, a writer/director who co-wrote Creed and has close ties with Jordan.  Covington is a fan of both basketball and 2K, so it would be just to assume he has played past editions of MyCareer, and he's accumulated ideas of his own in the process.

Off the court decisions have an impact on the narrative as well.  For example, "If you're a gym rat like Justice, the two of you will form a strong bond right away.  If you're more outspoken in press conferences and talking to the media, it will have ramifications down the line." I like that 2K is now adding a layer of personality to one's MyPlayer.  In previous editions, it seemed like one could do anything, whether it be putting in a lot of hours in practice or spewing arrogance nonsense in trash, but never see any consequences.  One's MyPlayer could openly diss his teammates during a halftime or post-game press conference, but never see a hit to team chemistry.  Now, every action has a purpose.

Source: NBA 2K17

Orange Juice

"Orange Juice represents the chemistry between MyPlayer and Justice Young," writes Bishop.  "As their relationship develops, Orange Juice becomes a nickname for the two of them and a key element in the story." 

At this point, the 2K crew is opening a dictionary and picking the first word they see, but despite the weird name, this concept is legitimately interesting. 

Bishop goes on to say that if the MyPlayer and Bishop are "locked in," one can not only tell Young to perform a particular action but switch over and control him entirely.  Taking over a second player in Young is a refreshing idea which will add more replayability to the game mode.  Young will most likely have a different playstyle than that of MyPlayer, so being able to switch between the two may help a player win ballgames.  There is no mention of Young's particular playstyle other than he is a raw athlete, but say for example one's MyPlayer is cold, and Young is hot.  Young may not have the tendency to shoot by himself, but by being able to determine his actions or directly play as him, a player will have more control.

Source: NBA 2K17

Off-Court AI & Endorsements

2K is building on last year's off-days with a more flexible schedule, allowing a player to choose more than one course of action per day.  Just like last year, there are the three base options, practice, endorsements, and connections.  Unlike last year, there are windows of time in which one can attend an individual event.  For example, in this screenshot, the Practice Facility is open from 8 AM to 10 AM, but there is a Stance business meeting from 9 AM to 1 PM, so it will be up to a player to prioritize.

Source: NBA 2K17

Speaking of which, 2K has also revamped the endorsement system for MyCareer.  The first bit of information that Bishop throws at us is that we, like rookies in the NBA, will get a shoe deal right from the jump instead of having to wait midway through the season.  Each company is unique and reaps different benefits.

"Some will give you more swag right away, while others will require you to work harder to move up the ladder," writes Bishop.  College play also has an effect on the situation, as the better one plays, the easier it will be to take on a bigger role within the company.

Some endorsements also depend on playstyle.  "Moutain Dew might be looking for a flashier player, while a company like Spalding is more interested in players that exhibit strong ball handling skills," says Bishop.  Players, not just companies, will notice on the court tendencies as well.  Stephen Curry may talk to one's MyPlayer sooner if he makes a lot of deep threes while putting in a lot of work in the gym may entice a phone call from Kobe.  There's more incentive while choosing a company, as some companies will have you be an exclusive to them and them only.  Contracts are also up for negotiation with these companies, whether it be fewer appearances or more VC.

2K's approach to endorsements this season is far more immersive and personal than that of last year, which is obviously a step in the right direction.  There wasn't much to do with endorsements in 2K16, as the game limited the sponsorships to pressing a button and "making appearances." Now, there's much more a dynamic; if a player wants a bigger check, one has to earn it, on and off the court.

Source: NBA 2K17

Live Practice and Doin' Work

In addition to revamping the endorsements, 2K is taking another crack at the practice system with the introduction of "Doin' Work," a meter that fills up every time one's MyPlayer practices in any fashion.  "So now whether you’re in the middle of a Team Practice, working on your shot in the Practice Gym with Justice, or even just shooting around solo in your MyCourt, the Doin’ Work meter is always there tracking your progress," Bishop states.  Live practice is also back.  2K is not only bringing back some of the drills from last year, but adding in new ones, as well as weight lifting. 

Source: NBA 2K17

The main takeaway from the Doin' Work meter is that filling it up allows one to earn more upgrade slots, which allows a user to max out his or her MyPlayer fully.  Doin' Work is a system which rewards players who grind, whether it be in practice or on one's MyCourt.  Gone are the days when a player can go to practice for five seconds before quitting, yet still receiving an attribute upgrade, or simply purchase VC.  Now if a player has a 99 overall, that means a player earned that rank.

What has gone unstated is that one can simultaneously fill the meter while getting better at the game.  For example, if one wants to see if one dribble size-up is more efficient than other, one can practice both on the MyCourt and fill up the Doin' Work meter at the same time.  The same goes for testing out jump shots, layup packages, post moves, so on and so forth.  A player does not have to improve alone, as one's MyPlayer can practice with Young, Levins, or teammates, which fills the meter up faster than a solo practice.

Source: NBA 2K17

MyCourt

MyCourt is back, and just like every other aspect of MyCareer, it's new and improved.  Just like last year, all the features, such as upgrading one's player, checking stats, and playing online with friends, are available, but there a couple of significant changes. 

For one, there are now three different courts, which are unlocked throughout the mode, compared to last season, in which we only had the one base MyCourt to customize.  In the screenshot below, we get a glimpse of one of the most lavish courts, which, just like last year, are fully customizable.

2K incorporates MyCourt into the storyline, where the storyline takes place, as well as is the setting for shootaround with Young, Levins, and other teammates.

It shouldn't be surprising that 2K made the MyCourt more a part of the MyCareer experience considering all of the additions, but it's nonetheless impressive to know that we'll have our fingerprints on the setting of a cutscene.  The court in the screenshot is beautiful, clean, and pristine, and it will be a nice feature to be able to upgrade to bigger and better courts as one's stardom rises.  There were ways last year to customize the court, but because there was only one base layout, it felt as though my design overlapped with that of others.  It still may, but with all the additions the game, I'm expecting there to be a multitude of new ways to make one's MyCourt feel like home.  

Being able to play with teammates and characters in one's MyCourt is an excellent feature as well.  In 2K16, there was a different aura between the shooting around in practice versus on one's MyCourt.  The problem was that teammates and characters could not join one's MyPlayer onto the MyCourt, leaving a lot of space just for one player.  Now, one's MyPlayer will be able to experience the MyCourt with other NPCs, further contributing to the realism and immersion.

Source: NBA 2K17

Texting

It pales in comparison to other features, but there will now be a texting feature in MyCareer.  This texting feature allows for two-way communication with various characters and helps build relationships.  

Source: NBA 2K17

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