NBA 2K14 is a basketball simulator, and follows most of the gameplay from the rest of the NBA 2K series. Most of the gameplay takes place within basketball games. Players control the basketball players with the goal of defeating the other team before the end of the game.
Game Modes
The basic basketball gameplay is used mostly in Quick Play, a mode that simply involves one-on-one team-based games. These matches are done simply for fun, but there are other more-involved modes.
My Player
This serves as the basic customization mode. Here, like in other NBA 2K titles, players create their own character from scratch. This allows the player to choose the character's name, appearance, position, outfit, height/weight, nickname, play style, and body stats. The customizable players stats can be changed over time by playing the game. This created character is then used as the main character of My Career mode.
My Career
My Career is the basic single-player story mode of NBA 2K14. This mode has the player go through the career of a typical NBA star. This involves getting drafted intro the NBA, progressing through the seasons and playoffs, and rising to stardom. The set storyline features both on-court and off-court situations, where games played and decisions made will affect the story.
My GM
This mode has players control an NBA General Manager. This puts them in control of one team for a typical season. Each team features different budgets and restrictions. The player will have to work with the team's owner in order to be successful through choice-based communication. They will be able to make financial decisions for the team.
My Team
My Team is a mode that allows players to buy game packs using virtual points. These packs are randomly generated, and the player does not know what is in them before purchasing. The packs may contain stat bonuses, legendary players, arenas, and customization options.
Lebron: Path to Greatness
This is a story mode new to NBA 2K14. This has players controlling Lebron James and progressing throughout his career. This doesn't feature the choices and customization of the other single player modes. Instead, the player is tasked with completing certain games in tasks in order to acquire rings. This mode is only available in the PS3 and 360 versions of the game.
Training Camp
Training Camp is NBA 2K14's basic tutorial mode. This mode shows players the controls and teaches them to perform basic movements while also going into detailed tutorial breakdowns regarding the more difficult, advanced moves.
Crew Mode
Crew Mode is the main online multi-player mode. Rather than just having each player control a team like in Quick Play, this mode has each online player control a single player in a single position. With five players on each team, the online mode features ten players in each game in a team vs mode. Each player uses their customized player from My Player mode.
Gameplay Features
Rosters
NBA 2K14 features consistently updated rosters. When the statistics, rankings and rosters of real NBA players and teams change, the game will reflect them.
Pro Stick
The game features Pro Stick gameplay for the more advanced players. The Pro Stick makes the right analog stick control everything with more precision. This can be used to perform passes, shots and other moves. These are much more accurate and flashy than typical moves.
2K Smart Play Button
This feature has the opposite effect of the Pro Stick. The Smart Play Button automatically chooses what the best pass, shot or other move would be. Pressing the button performs that move. While the player can't control what the move is or where it's going, it is typically accurate.
Animations
To add to the depth of the game, the variety of the animation and gameplay has been expanded heavily. It features over 3000 new animations not present in any prior NBA games.
Player Motion System
NBA 2K14 features an expanded motion system from prior games. This new system is meant to provide much smoother control of the players while also making the controls much more quick and responsive.
