All new gameplay features in NBA 2K25

The latest installment in the franchise, NBA 2K25, was highlighted in the Courtside Report which showcased all the new gameplay features that players can look forward to.

In its latest version, 2K has implemented various modifications to key gameplay elements such as dribbling, shooting, and defensive techniques. These adjustments, along with the addition of new features, are intended to revitalize the NBA 2K experience.

With that being said, there are some exciting new gameplay features to anticipate in NBA 2K25.

NBA 2K25 Gameplay Changes

New ProPlay animations
Dribble Engine
Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting
Shot Canceling
Defensive Movement

New ProPlay Animations

Jayson Tatum shooting in NBA 2K25 — 2K Games

NBA 2K25 features Signature Shot animations for stars like Jayson Tatum.

NBA 2K24 marked the introduction of ProPlay, an innovative animation system that shifted from motion-captured animations to authentic movements directly replicated from real NBA footage. In NBA 2K25, the developers are taking ProPlay to the next level with the addition of 9,000 new animations, comprising of 1,500 dribbling animations, 1,100 signature shot animations, and over 1,300 off-the-ball animations.

The goal of these new animations is to enhance the realism of the game, with players moving in a manner that closely resembles real-life movements. From their free throw technique to their dribble moves, each player will have a distinct and authentic presence on the court.

Dribble Engine

The upcoming NBA 2K25 will showcase an entirely new Dribble Engine that has been developed from scratch. The developers have gone as far as referring to this new addition as the “most incredible enhancement”to the gameplay engine in the past 15 years.

The latest system capitalizes on the capabilities of ProPlay to generate animations that closely resemble real-life dribbling techniques used by players. In the past, dribble movements were controlled by manually programmed, pre-scripted animation transitions. But with the enhanced use of ProPlay in NBA 2K25, players can expect a more genuine and realistic dribbling experience.

The Dribble Engine utilizes actual NBA footage to produce realistic movements that mimic those seen in real games. Whether it is a gradual advance down the court or quick bursts into open spaces, dribbling feels natural and dependable.

Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting

Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting is a recently introduced shooting technique where players must synchronize their inputs with the corresponding animation. Rather than simply pressing and releasing the shot stick, the player is required to initially pull the stick downwards to initiate the shot. From there, the animation must be closely monitored and the stick pushed upwards when the player reaches their designated point.

The timing of the shot’s release must align with the up-down motion of the shot stick. This innovative shooting technique allows for a more intuitive replication of your favorite star’s signature shooting form. It also pairs perfectly with the newly added Signature Go-To Shots for players such as Jayson Tatum, SGA, Steph Curry, and others.

The Dribble Breakdown and triggering of the Signature Shot should feel even more engaging than they did previously.

Shot Canceling

The addition of the Shot Canceling feature allows you to interrupt any advanced shot and smoothly transition into other moves, leaving your opponents disoriented. For example, you can begin with a stepback jump shot, halt it in the middle, and seamlessly switch to a drive with a juke incorporated.

Utilizing Shot Canceling is an effective offensive strategy that allows players to showcase impressive plays.

Defensive Movement

Victor Wembanyama in NBA 2K25 — 2K Games

When on defense, you’ll have more tools to use.

The latest installment of NBA 2K, NBA 2K25, introduces a new defensive cutoff system. Similar to offensive players, defenders are now able to use the right stick to dynamically alter their direction.

Using the right stick to control players on defense allows for more efficient positioning. It enables you to anticipate the opposing player’s movements and cut them off, or use their ball handling to create a turnover. Mastering the right stick movement on defense can bring successful results by anticipating and countering the offensive player’s actions.

The addition of these new gameplay features is expected to heighten the excitement surrounding NBA 2K25.