When the Nintendo Switch was first released, people were a little unsure as to whether or not there would be quality basketball games of any kind on the console.
While some sports translated well, basketball was one that seemed a little bit troublesome at first. However, those looking for a more traditional experience found that they could still get their basketball fix.
These are the four best basketball games on the Nintendo Switch right now. Some of these games are very familiar to players, and are available on other consoles as well. From simulation to casual play, having something for everyone makes basketball very much represented on the system.
1. NBA 2K Playgrounds 2
The arcade-style of NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 is perfect for people who want to play basketball, but don’t necessarily want a simulation. There is a lot of over-the-top moves people can learn to make it a challenge, and the two-on-two streetball is pretty intense against the computer or online.
One of the great things about this game is that it is fully licensed, so players can currently use their favorite NBA players or in the past. There’s even an opportunity to create players and build them up to challenge all types of opponents.
With the versatility of the Switch, this game is perfect for picking up and going just about anywhere. It doesn’t take long to complete games, and can be enjoyed by casual and serious gamers. Now that it’s available for a cheap price, it’s worth picking up for any person who likes basketball.
Pros
- Quick games
- Fully licensed by the NBA
- Competitive fun
Cons
- Too unrealistic for some basketball fans
- Could use a roster update
2. NBA 2K22
There were a lot of NBA basketball fans who were not sure whether or not they would get the 2K series on the Nintendo Switch. The good thing is that the company decided to launch the game so that players can enjoy it on all consoles, and it is definitely one worth checking out on the Nintendo Switch.
NBA 2K22 seems to be a much more refined version of NBA 2K21 currently. The downside is that since it is a brand new game, it’s going to cost the most amount of money.
Some people are fine with paying that amount of money since they will get the most accurate rosters and all the latest graphics and updates. Others are just going to settle for something less expensive.
As time goes on, the 2K series is likely to improve the current generation of video game consoles. It’s a yearly release, and NBA 2K22 seems to be showing that they are going in the right direction. It will be interesting to see where the 2K series will be in a few more years on the Nintendo Switch, but this latest release is as good as it gets now.
Pros
- Excellent graphics
- Improved gameplay compared to 2K21
- Fully updated rosters
Cons
- Very expensive compared to other basketball games
- Might not be catered towards casual players too much
3. NBA 2K21
NBA 2K 21 was the first release on Nintendo Switch that actually seemed like it was going in the right direction as far as realism is concerned. There are a lot of people who are casual gamers on the Nintendo Switch, but the company wanted to make sure that they were catering to all types of players. That’s when this option came to the table.
Who would actually buy the older version of the game when NBA 2K22 is out? It mostly comes down to price.
People who don’t need the latest rosters and some of the subtle upgrades will be just fine with a much cheaper option that still plays extremely well. There are not a ton of upgrades from year to year, so it makes sense to go in this direction.
Pros
- Excellent graphics
- Inexpensive
- Full slate of offline and online modes
4. Sports Party
Although not exclusively a basketball game, Sports Party is a slew of games under one umbrella that is meant to be casual and fun for all ages. Basketball is one of the sports included, and actually makes for some competitive fun.
Those loving simulation-style basketball games certainly won’t get what they are looking for with this game. However, it’s still worth picking up since it’s very cheap and has many different games to try out. It’s always great to throw in when there are people over, as it is very easy to learn and have competitive face-offs.
With a limited number of games available on the Nintendo Switch for basketball fans right now, this is at least a catch-all option that most people will be able to get the hang of. It’s not the craziest game in the world, but it’s still worth giving a try.
Pros
- Simple controls
- Fun for all skill levels
- Other games included
Cons
- Very simplistic graphics
- Controls are not realistic in some instances
Our Top Pick
Although it is the most expensive, NBA 2K22 is the best investment right now for basketball fans. It just recently came out, and has the latest upgrades so that it will age pretty well. Some people who really love the sport will buy the new NBA 2K game every year, but that’s unnecessary for everyone.
Even for people who don’t regularly buy the newest NBA 2K game, early reviews have shown that NBA 2K22 is one of the best versions in a while. They have listened to some of the feedback from players over the years and implemented some changes that have been very well received.
It seems like for a lot of people, this could be a game that they hold onto for a while. Being able to play a full version of simulation basketball on the Nintendo Switch is something a lot of people seem to enjoy at this point. Having the chance at home or on the road is also an added plus other consoles are unable to offer.
Here are the best basketball games on other platforms: