It sadly didn't get a nom at The Game Awards, but honestly no game in 2025 has kept me hooked like NetEase's Dunk City Dynasty. It combines all the arcade fun of NBA Jam with ridiculous amounts of customization. By the way, it's completely free to play. If you love video game b-ball, I am begging you to join this party.
As a 3-on-3 game it's absolutely arcade, but there is strategy that most simulation games should be envious of. Blocks, for example, aren't a one-size fits all defensive move. Each player has multiple shots, with different timings. If you don't have it timed right, LeBron is posterizing you.
There are some very elaborate skill trees that determine how you build your character. My James Harden and your Harden can end up in two very different places depending on how we chose to evolve them. Don't worry, there are countless guides if you're at a loss for how to build them.
Heck, with the Season 5 release of Lebron James 2016, we have two completely separate versions of a superstar player to choose from. Do you want to be a grizzled veteran playing the game way smarter than your opponents, or would you just like to blow everybody away with your athleticism?
As with so many great games, some of the advances are small but significant. The quick phrase system for communication is an easy way to let somebody know that they hit a great shot, that your ultimate is up, or that they need to pass the ball more. We are playing online, you're probably going to use that last one a lot.
Earlier this season, Dunk City Dynasty added Dennis Rodman. As you might imagine, his kit is built around his legendary defense. He battles for rebounds and loose balls better than anyone. In one incredible game, I grabbed 8 rebounds and had five assists. I didn't register a single point, but the game recognized that my team couldn't have won without me and gave me the MVP award.
Does it have gacha mechanics? Yep, it's a mobile game in 2025. Despite not opening my wallet, I have superstars such as LeBron, Rodman, and Giannis just from in-game challenges and season passes. Whatever position my squad needs me to fill, I have a star I'm comfortable with.
Please, please try this game if you even kind of like basketball. It has eaten up countless hours of my time, and I regret nothing.