NBA Ballers: Phenom [PS2]

When the original NBA Ballers hit shelves two years ago, it was a breath of fresh air in a genre that had been stagnant since the heyday of NBA Jam. Its focus on one-on-one play was notably different and the story mode brought an unusual amount of depth, even spawning a few copycats in the process. For the sequel, Midway has buffed up the story mode and added a two-on-two match to the mix, but the core game hasn't changed much.

This time around, the zero-to-hero story centers around you and your rival, Hot Sauce. A one time friend, Hot Sauce sold you out for fame, fortune, and the affections of your foxy lady. You've still got the mad b-ball skills, but without a chance to prove it on the court, you'll never get what's coming to you. As luck would have it, the NBA Finals are being held in LA this year -- and a shot at the big time along with it. You've got one week to compete on the courts and win the big prize. Do well, and you'll walk away as a NBA Superstar and Hollywood maven; screw up, and you'll be living out of your car forever.

Because the game is all about you, the first step in the story mode is creating a custom character. Phenom doesn't skimp on the options, giving players plenty of ways to pimp out your player to the max. You also have 480 points to spread across 16 different stat categories, which cover everything from shooting skills to defensive ability to performance under pressure.

Although it's possible to start with a balanced character, most players are better served by specializing. After all, if you primarily play a mid-game or always shoot close to the post, there's little reason to waste ability points on the 3-point shot. As you win tournaments, more ability points are awarded and can be distributed as you choose.

Tournaments play out in the one-on-one match-ups that characterize the Ballers franchise. Matches are fought in a "best-of-three rounds" structure. Rounds are won by reaching 13 points (and leading by at least two points) or simply having the highest score when the timer hits zero. Special rules, such as unlimited goal tending or no time limit, occasionally appear to mix things up.

On-court play is very similar to the original game. Inspired by Midway's fighting game heritage, Ballers combines arcade-styled b-ball with the crazy super moves made famous by the likes of Mortal Kombat. The basic commands of passing, shooting, and dunking are the core of the game, but show-off moves, jukes, taunts, and specials make up a large portion of play. By throwing down your game and getting flashy for the camera, you can not only confuse your opponent but you'll also start racking up bonus points, which contribute to prize money at the end of the match.

Your choice of moves is limited at first, but the more advanced specials can be unlocked by purchasing them or by playing through the story mode. Temporary abilities can be gained by purchasing food and stats can be modified by purchasing clothes. In some ways, it's similar to equipping a character in a role-playing game or trying to be popular in high school -- it's all about having the right threads.