We've reached an inevitable crossroad now, though the signs should have been seen a while back. You pay for a full price game that also integrates the business model of a free to play/pay to win title. Paying gives advantages over those who won't, or can't afford to. And the enjoyment you get from it suffers because of it.

Where other sports games have stepped up their games to provide a comprehensive experience, NBA 2K18 has taken a huge step back, and seems more focused on getting more money out of players than doing anything else. Stay far, far away.