Introduced last year, ProPLAY in NBA 2K25 is the latest technology to arrive in the NBA 2K series. Here’s everything to know about Pro-Play in NBA 2K25.
What is NBA 2K ProPLAY?
- NBA 2K25 ProPLAY is a groundbreaking new technology that directly translates NBA video footage into NBA 2K25 gameplay
- NBA 2K25 ProPLAY delivers animations and movements via on-court NBA action for a generational leap in authenticity
- ProPLAY is exclusive to the new-gen consoles: PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S
The Effect of NBA 2K25 Pro-Play on Gameplay
- NBA realism. With the ProPLAY technology directly translating real player footage to animations, it makes the movement that much more authentic and accurate
- ProPLAY technology makes 2K’s work load more efficient in a number of way
- They can add new animations faster
- Add much more variety of movement
- Increase the number of signature movements for NBA players (including historical players)
Here’s what NBA 2K Gameplay Director Mike Wang and 2K had to say about ProPLAY in the NBA 2K Series:
“Each year, NBA 2K takes a step forward in delivering first-class results using motion capture, but ProPLAY propels the franchise even further with cutting-edge technology to directly translate movements from real NBA games into gameplay,” marking a historic achievement in sports gaming.
We’ve directed athletes for 20 years on how to recreate their signature moves with mocap, but now we can provide the truest forms of contested step backs, acrobatic layups, and more by translating actual NBA footage.
This year, you’ll see and feel the difference in shots, free throws, off-ball offense and defense—it’s present throughout the game for New Gen consoles.
The shots, motion—anytime the player is moving off-ball around the court—dribbling, rebounds, blocks, passes, and free throws feel different in the game because they’ve been captured in real-time scenarios. Previous iterations of NBA 2K have featured a variety of dribble packages and unique jumpshots, but capturing a contorting, athletic layup under the basket or an ankle-breaking step back to create separation from a lockdown defender in a pivotal moment of a game hasn’t been possible to this degree.
ProPLAY technology generates authentic movements that can only be made by some of your favorite players. For example, students of the game and avid NBA fans will recognize Kevin Durant’s unique jumpshot and free throw form, Steph Curry’s explosive dribble moves and array of off-dribble jumpers, Nikola Jokić’s methodical moves and feathery touch around the rim, and the list goes on and on. ProPLAY makes the game look and feel more believable, and reduces the amount of breaks in authenticity.”
Animations
Every aspect of the game receives an added layer of realism that’s visible in every movement and interaction. Here are some of the new animations for New Gen powered by ProPLAY:
- Jumpshots
- Dunks
- Layups
- Dribble Moves
- Pass Animations
- Signature Movement (Offense & Defense)
While the primary actions certainly benefit from the ultra-realistic tech, they aren’t the only areas you’ll notice. Casual inbound passes and otherwise unremarkable motions, that aren’t a priority during mo-cap, have now been scanned to cover even the most minute details. The totality of the movements results in an entirely new level of legitimacy; ProPLAY has allowed us to transition from manufacturing actions to fully immersing you in the entire NBA experience from the jump ball to the final whistle.
ProPLAY delivers an immersive and authentic game on New Gen, while the gameplay enhancements we’ve made across all consoles in provide an elevated experience for everyone.
Gameplay Enhancements New to NBA 2K25 ProPLAY
ProPLAY Animation Expansion:
- 9,000+ new animations from the 2023–24 NBA season.
- Includes dribble, off-ball movement, motion polish, and signature shot animations.
All-New Dribble Engine:
- Largest gameplay engine overhaul in 15 years
- Built using ProPLAY tech for more dynamic, fluid, and consistent dribble movement.
Offensive Innovations
- Signature Go-To Shots:
- Authentic NBA footage mapped to player-specific moves
- Seamless transitions from dribble combos into signature shots
Shot Canceling:
- Cancel shot animations mid-motion
- Chain dribble moves and shots creatively in real-time
Shot Timing Profiles:
- Choose between “Low Risk-Reward” (easier timing, smarter shots) or “High Risk-Reward” (tougher timing, bigger payoff)
- Tailors shot success to user skill and decision-making
Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting:
- New optional mechanic
- Rewards accurate replication of timing and tempo of real players’ signature shots
Defensive Enhancements
Defensive Movement System:
- Use Pro Stick to shuffle or move laterally.
- Better control over cutting off drives, interrupting off-ball cuts, and defending passing lanes.
Conclusion
Overall, ProPLAY in NBA 2K has enhanced the realism of the game and improved the game’s authenticity when it comes to basketball animations and movement in a huge way.
