NBA 2K21 will be more expensive on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X than on current-gen platforms. Along with publisher 2K’s full unveiling of this year’s annual basketball game release came the announcement that players will have to pay $69.99 for a next-gen copy of the game – a full $10 more than the $59.99 on all other platforms. The game is set to launch Sept. 4 for Google Stadia, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One at the lower price point. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions are planned to arrive as launch titles this holiday season.
Whether or not the price of 2K’s latest game signals a trend for next-gen games remains to be seen. Another fact worth noting is that the standard edition of the game will not support Xbox Smart Delivery or a similar feature with PlayStation 5, so you won’t be able to take advantage of a free next-gen upgrade.
Speaking with Kotaku, a Take-Two Interactive spokesperson clarified the reasoning behind the price increase: “We believe our suggested retail price for NBA 2K21 on next-generation platforms fairly represents the value of what’s being offered: power, speed and technology that is only possible on new hardware.”
The late Kobe Bryant will grace the cover of the special NBA 2K21: Mamba Forever Edition, which retails for $99.99. Those who purchase the special edition will receive a standard-edition copy for either a current or next-generation corresponding platform at no additional cost. Aside from a cross-gen upgrade, the Mamba Forever Edition includes special game art and other in-game goodies.
The current- and next-gen standard copies of NBA 2K21 will feature Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers and Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans, respectively.
The game was first unveiled at Sony’s PlayStation 5 conference last month, showcasing some of the improved visuals players will get on the next-gen hardware.
