This is a faithful port of the DC game in every way, right down to the fans in the stands. The only difference is of course the controller, but everything else plays true to the original release. Even though it is an identical copy of the original, this should be considered a god-send for video game enthusiasts who passed up the DC.

AI in sports games has always been a toss-up. NBA2K2 features well-balanced AI, with slight mishaps every once in awhile. For example, goaltending or passing the ball out of bounds (while passing it in) is a frequent problem if you are not attentive to your players, but nothing too distracting. The computer is tough on defense and tough on offense, even on the rookie level. On the harder difficult levels, there is absolutely no room for mistakes. Not only are they tough, but the computer is smart. Don't try sneaking in a play twice if it worked well the first time - they learn from their mistakes just as fast as you do. If you are looking for a challenging sports sim, NBA2K2 delivers this in spades.

The one shortcoming of this game is its graphics. It is a port of DC game, so the textures are not as sharp as they should be on the GCN. While playing on the Street Courts, there is an overabundance of solid colors and minimal use of shading. It looks like a DC game, but I am hoping the next game in the series will take advantage of a console's strengths. The facial features and distinctive looks of players are fairly accurate, right down to the various armbands Allen Iverson actually wears. If you play as one of the "blast from the past" teams (70s East, etc.), their uniforms are what would now be considered a fashion faux-pas (i.e. shorts above the knee). The fans in the stands are relegated to grainy pixels that move up and down, simulating the excitement of a real crowd. I have yet to see a game that shows Jack Nicholson at the sidelines of a LA Lakers game.

NBA2K2 is filled to the brim with options. Not only is there an Exhibition Mode, but you can play a full season, practice (where you can work on your shots with commentary on how to improve, run plays, and practice your free-throws), tournament, playoffs, and fantasy league. The most interesting feature is an inclusion of a Street Ball mode. Visual Concepts has recreated several street/playground courts that have attained legendary status due to NBA players who played on them. If you do not want to feel the pressure of a full game, Street Ball is a great feature for just a quick matchup. Just like in real life, pick-up games are usually unplanned, primarily for fun, and a nice breather to gauge your skills.

The control scheme is intuitive, and is much easier on the hands this time around with the GCN controller. They have even utilized the C-stick to pass the ball to the player closest to the basket, as well as use it to call plays. The game and control flow together nicely and form a very cohesive relationship. I have had less trouble performing an alley-oop, performing a cross-over past a defensemen, and make a dunk from the top of the key in this game than any other basketball sim.

Sound and music is acceptable, nothing too revolutionary. There is commentary in the game, but like any sports game, it get tiring. Besides the usual crowd noises and sneakers, it does a decent enough job to reproduce an arena environment.

NBA2K2 is a great basketball game, and overall, a sports game that is a solid addition to a relatively small GCN library. The responsive control and challenging AI make it a complete basketball experience. There is enough difficult there to satisfy those die-hard players, while at the same time, it is based on a series with a solid foundation in the basics: creating the fun and exciting atmosphere of an NBA game. NBA2K2 does not back down, and brings the Big Show to you. I am looking forward to the next game of the series, where I am sure Visual Concepts will tailor to the GCN's hardware - providing the player with an even more complete experience. Unlike your Air Jordans, play some NBA2K2 because this series just gets better with age.