NBA 2K24, the latest installment of the highly popular basketball video game franchise, has made a significant announcement by selecting the late Kobe Bryant as its poster boy for the fourth time. This decision solidifies Bryant’s status as an iconic figure not only in the world of basketball but also in the realm of gaming.
Having previously appeared on the covers of NBA 2K10’s Mamba Forever Edition, NBA 2K17, and NBA 2K21, Bryant will now grace the cover of NBA 2K24. The choice to feature him repeatedly demonstrates the lasting impact and reverence he holds in both sports and gaming communities.
Since its establishment in 1999, the NBA 2K series has garnered praise for its ability to faithfully recreate each NBA basketball season in video game form, providing an immersive and realistic experience for players. While specific details about NBA 2K24 are still limited, the recent announcement on the official NBA 2K Twitter account has offered fans some insights into what they can expect from the upcoming release.
The game will be available in two editions: the Kobe Bryant Edition and the Black Mamba Edition. The cover art for both editions has been unveiled, with the former featuring Bryant executing a dynamic dunk against a vibrant kaleidoscopic background, and the latter showcasing a close-up profile of his determined and sweat-covered face.
Releasing multiple editions has become a customary practice for the NBA 2K series, and this tradition continues with NBA 2K24. The announcement also mentioned that pre-orders for the game will commence on July 7th, building anticipation among eager fans.
The reveal generated a wave of excitement on social media, with fans expressing their enthusiasm through an influx of heart and snake emojis in the comments section. The official Xbox account also expressed approval, subtly hinting at the game’s availability on its consoles. Speculation arose about which players might appear on other editions, and some fans voiced their desire for cross-play compatibility between different versions of the game. A few users also expressed disappointment that the cover art featured Bryant wearing his number 8 jersey instead of his iconic number 24, which had been accurately depicted in previous iterations of the game.
Kobe Bryant’s unquestionable status as a basketball legend made him an obvious and fitting choice for the NBA 2K series. His tragic and untimely passing left a profound impact on people worldwide, transcending the boundaries of the basketball community. Honoring him within the game franchise serves as a meaningful tribute, one that has been executed multiple times to commemorate his enduring legacy.
As NBA 2K24 prepares to hit store shelves and online platforms, fans eagerly anticipate how the game will further celebrate Bryant’s remarkable career and the lasting imprint he left on the sport.