NBA Live 96 (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

NBA Live 96: A Slam Dunk Classic

NBA Live 96 is a basketball video game developed by EA Sports and released in 1995 for the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and PC. It is the second installment in the NBA Live series, and was the first to feature NBA players with their real names and likenesses.

NBA Live 96 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and deep feature set. The game is still considered one of the best basketball games ever made.

Gameplay

NBA Live 96 features a variety of gameplay modes, including:

  • Exhibition: Play a single game against the computer or a friend.
  • Season: Play a full 82-game season with your favorite team.
  • Playoffs: Compete in the NBA playoffs with your favorite team.
  • Draft: Draft your own team from a pool of NBA players.
  • Trade: Trade players with other teams to improve your roster.
  • Edit: Create or edit players, teams, and leagues.

The gameplay in NBA Live 96 is fast-paced and exciting. The controls are simple and easy to learn, but the game offers a deep level of strategy and customization. You can choose to play as any of the 29 NBA teams, and you can customize your team’s lineup, playbook, and strategies.

NBA Live 96 also features a variety of innovative gameplay features, such as:

  • Dynamic DNA: This system gives each player in the game their own unique set of skills and abilities. This makes every game feel different, and it forces you to adjust your strategy based on the players you’re facing.
  • Motion capture: This technology was used to create realistic player animations. This makes the game look and feel more like a real NBA game.
  • Play-by-play commentary: NBA Live 96 features play-by-play commentary from Marv Albert and Bill Walton. This adds to the game’s atmosphere and makes it feel more like a real NBA broadcast.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in NBA Live 96 are some of the best on the Super Nintendo and Genesis. The players are well-animated and the courts are detailed and realistic. The game also features a variety of visual effects, such as lens flare and crowd reactions.

The sound in NBA Live 96 is also top-notch. The crowd noise is realistic and the music is catchy. The game also features a variety of sound effects, such as the sound of the ball swishing through the net.

Features

NBA Live 96 is packed with features, including:

  • 29 NBA teams: Play as any of the 29 NBA teams, including the expansion Toronto Raptors and Vancouver Grizzlies.
  • Real NBA players: All of the NBA’s biggest stars are featured in the game, including Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Hakeem Olajuwon.
  • Dynamic DNA: Each player in the game has their own unique set of skills and abilities.
  • Motion capture: The game’s player animations are based on motion capture data.
  • Play-by-play commentary: Marv Albert and Bill Walton provide play-by-play commentary.
  • Variety of gameplay modes: Play exhibition games, full seasons, playoffs, and more.
  • Deep customization options: Customize your team’s lineup, playbook, and strategies.

Conclusion

NBA Live 96 is a classic basketball game that still holds up today. It’s a fun and challenging game that offers a deep level of strategy and customization. If you’re a fan of basketball, then you owe it to yourself to check out NBA Live 96.

Additional Information

  • NBA Live 96 was developed by EA Sports and published by Electronic Arts.
  • The game was released on November 14, 1995 in North America and on December 1, 1995 in Europe.
  • NBA Live 96 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.
  • The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and deep feature set.
  • NBA Live 96 is still considered one of the best basketball games ever made.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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