NBA Hangtime
Reviewed by Brian Taylor
NBA Hangtime is the first basketball game to be ported to the
N64. Overall, it succeeds at what it tries to do, but it will not appeal
to everyone. In case you've never played the arcade smash hit, NBA
Hangtime features all 29 of the NBA teams. You choose from limited
rosters from each team and you play a shortened game with unbelievable
dunks, no fouls (except goaltending), which gives you an incredible
arcade experience.
The N64 version is virtually identical to the arcade, which is a
plus on its own. This review is divided up into 5 categories for
simplicity. Each category will be multiplied by 2 and the total score
will be out of a hundred points.
Graphics - 8.5
Pretty decent player sprites and animation. However, the graphics are not
mind boggling and there is some slowdown. Overall, a very good port from
the arcade. The graphics are solid if not spectacular.
Sound - 9
An excellent job by the team at Midway. One of the major faults in past
versions of NBA Jam was the failure to recreate the brilliant arcade
sound. The N64 version provides clear speech and kickin' original music.
These tracks will be easily remembered and are a good complement to the
game. The in-game sounds are pretty well done, although at times it can
be hard to hear.
Control - 7.5
The game lacks a little bit here. The Control Stick isn't quite as
responsive as you might like. However, you usually have no trouble doing
what you want to do, so it isn't really that bad. There are several new
moves and techniques that are fun to use, especially in multiplayer
games.
Fun Factor - 8.5
One player mode is quite disappointing because of the cheap computer AI.
It will always find a way to catch up with you and you will find yourself
chucking up 3's just to get ahead. In that respect the fun factor takes a
severe hit. However, the multiplayer modes more than make up for that,
especially if you have 4 players on hand. Get ready to rumble! When
there's no computer players, you can really have a great time with this
game. Also, there are a wide assortment of fun codes for outrageous play
and secret characters. Great fun!
Replay Value - 7.5
The multiplayer mode is really the only thing that will keep you coming
back to this one. Since the single player mode isn't really all that fun,
you won't be playing much after you beat all 29 NBA teams. However, in
this game you can create your own player, which is a very nice feature.
Even better, as you win games you can add new attribute points and spend
them on various upgrades.
TOTAL SCORE - 82 / 100
Bottom line, if you loved NBA Hangtime in the arcades, you'll love the
N64 version. If you love multiplayer sports games, you'll want to check
this one out. If you enjoyed Wayne Gretzky's 3D Hockey and like
basketball, this game could be for you. Otherwise, give it a rent before
you buy. An overall good effort by Midway.