The NBA 2K name typically comes attached to a hardcore simulation that is largely impenetrable to casual basketball fans, but NBA 2K13 for iPhone and iPad dials back the realism to offer something more accessible. There’s still plenty of depth for the diehards — though not quite on the level of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 console outings -- but even those with only a rudimentary understanding of the sport could soon be dribbling and dunking with the best of them. It's a bit cramped on an iPhone, but NBA 2K13 feels ideally suited to the iPad.
The one-finger control scheme makes great use of the touch screen, with gestures and taps for calling plays and passing, shooting, or stealing the ball. It handles a lot of the positional play for you, too, making it ideal for both newbies and expert basketball fans hoping to play basketball as it looks on the TV. Those after more hands-on controls can switch to using a joystick and buttons, although that sometimes leaves you in the lurch because of slow responsiveness. You can handle substitutions and timeouts yourself, or leave it to the A.I., while you have just three plays to choose from on offense or defense.
There’s incredible replay value in the Multi-Season Mode, which lets you play 29, 58, or full 82-game seasons, making trades and figuring out rotation policies along the way. You can also pop right into a quick game, learn the fundamentals in Practice mode, test your mettle as one of the all-time greats during one of their pivotal moments in Greatest Games, or play against a friend via Bluetooth or Game Center. Excellent commentary and visuals round out the top-notch presentation.
The bottom line. NBA 2K13 for iOS offers a fun and accessible basketball simulation that slams home in style despite occasional control issues.
iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad running iOS 5.0 or later
Stunning presentation, with great commentary, music, and graphics. Control schemes cater to different play styles. Deep-yet-accessible simulation of the NBA. Multiple game modes offer great replayability.
Minor responsiveness and fidelity issues with touch controls. Lacks much of the customizability of its console siblings.
