Does 2k8 for the ps2 go out w/ a bang?
Probably the most important improvement is the AI. Teams play more like themselves, and unlike past versions where 2k stated teams play like themselves, teams actually do this time around. Point guards don't seem to carry the bulk of the scoring but at the same time, shoot-first point guards will score if left open and need be(think Bibby, Terry, Baron, etc.). Another nice touch is the fact that pgs don't bring the ball up every time. Shooting guards and forwards will run the offense as well (Lebron, AI2, Odom). The out of bounds glitch is gone and your team will move a bit more on offense. Defense has improved as well despite lacking the Lock on D feature.
Other improvements include the new animations. There are now more shots, dribbles, layups, passes, collisions, and dunks. The dunks are perhaps one of the most most impressive animations as there's now a wide variety of dunks ranging from windmills to tomahawks. The stat overlay has improved dramatically thanks to the new scoreboard presentation which now displays stats in the scoreboard such as showing how many timeouts are remaining and who the top scorers, assist man, etc. For shoe lovers as well, there are Jordans!
However, cons of the game include a similar Association mode that has received some cosmetic improvement but nothing like the 360/ps3, frequent miss layups (can be changed by sliders however but there is still the occasional wide open blown layups), CAP is the same, and no new modes. Some players are missing as well, such as Yi.
In conclusion, the game warrants a purchase if you're looking for an improved AI and new animations. Despite some of the shortcuts 2k takes, game play is as solid as ever, if not the best it has ever been and should keep veterans and rookies satisfied.