NBA 09: The Inside

NBA 09: The Inside is a sequel to NBA 08 in which the player can experience a new narrative in “The Life” mode. This time, the player can take control of a manufactured superstar (five in all), who can interact with three distinct characters and constantly change the scenario. The Team Progression System reappears, rewarding the player for exploring the game and earning individual achievements assigned to them throughout the game. Completing these objectives will allow them to acquire various accouterments for their constructed persona, allowing them to flaunt their rank. Players can also associate with different teammates and coaches; how they interact with these characters will determine their place on the team (being a team player and helping others will have the coaches play you more and create a more extensive fan base, whereas being an individual loner will alienate them from the team and build a smaller fan base). This version includes the basic game modes (Franchise, Exhibition) and updated NBA rosters with every NBA franchise available. For this edition, the Havok engine is introduced, which gives the game a more realistic feel when combined with new animations and better character models. NBA Replay is also back, allowing players to relive memorable moments from the 2007/08 season and participate in the 2008/09 season by downloading them from the Playstation Network (five every week during the season). Players can also upload and exchange statistics, display their created superstars, track their progress through leaderboards, and even compete in online demonstration games. Kevin Calabro of the Seattle Supersonics and Kenny “The Jet” Smith of the franchise provides audio commentary.