Users wrote

Many reviews lament that NBA 2K23's online servers are shut down, making the game unplayable for most modes. Players report that there is no offline mode, and MyCareer and other single-player elements require online access. A large portion criticize the annual release cycle and the practice of forcing players to buy a new version to continue playing older content. Crashes, bugs, and overall performance issues are also mentioned, but the dominant concerns are server dependency and monetization.

Last updated: 2026-03-06

Most Mentioned Disadvantages

• Server shutdown blocks offline play (28 mentions) - Reviewers repeatedly state that the game becomes unplayable after servers are shut down. There is no offline or single-player career mode that can run independently of online servers. Progress, saved games, and access to MyCareer are often lost or blocked, making the game feel like it can’t be finished. Many reviews describe this as a scam-like practice and express strong disappointment.
• Forced upgrade to new versions (18 mentions) - Old versions become obsolete after new versions release, forcing players to buy the latest game to play. The games are marketed as a complete product, but server shutdowns effectively make the prior titles obsolete. This has been described as money-grabbing and anti-consumer by several reviewers.
• Frequent crashes and instability (8 mentions) - Reviewers report frequent crashes and instability across platforms. After updates or over time, the game can crash within minutes of play, interrupting matches and progression. This disrupts both single-player and online play.
• Aggressive monetization and pay-to-win (6 mentions) - Monetization is aggressive, with VC and microtransactions pushing players to spend more. This pay-to-win perception is highlighted as a core frustration and leads to a less satisfying experience for many players. Some reviews note that progression and enjoyment are hindered by the constant monetization demands.