NBA 2K13 Video - Erick Boenisch Producer Interview (GamerLiveTV)

[VDusen04]

Quote: Originally Posted by I Djm

yes a game's main attraction is a gimmick. 2k simply played the nostalgia card with jordan and the other legends

So hypothetically, if 2K's main attraction this year is significant gameplay improvements, that'd also be a gimmick?

[I Djm]

Quote: Originally Posted by VDusen04

So hypothetically, if 2K's main attraction this year is significant gameplay improvements, that'd also be a gimmick?

yes, whether it's good or bad. to me anytime you put a lot of emphasis on a feature it's a gimmick like what EA is doing. like how 2k put the emphasis on the move when kobe was using it was just a gimmick to get people to buy the move

[VDusen04]

Quote: Originally Posted by I Djm

yes, whether it's good or bad. to me anytime you put a lot of emphasis on a feature it's a gimmick like what EA is doing. like how 2k put the emphasis on the move when kobe was using it was just a gimmick to get people to buy the move

Fair enough. I think we're talking about two different types of gimmicks here. On one hand, the given dictionary definition of "gimmick" is merely "An ingenious or novel device, scheme, or stratagem, especially one designed to attract attention or increase appeal." That seems closer to what you're referring and to be honest, I'm not sure I see anything wrong with something of that manner.

On the flip side, as referenced by JerzeyReign on the previous page, in this case (and in most cases when the word "gimmick" is used in an unflattering manner), it can be defined as follows, "A unique or quirky special feature that makes something "stand out" from its contemporaries. However, the special feature is typically thought to be of little relevance or use."

Therefore, in this case, I'd very much object to the inclusion of Jordan and classic teams (or gameplay improvements) having little relevance or use. As such, when someone cites classic teams as a gimmick, then asks why 2K hasn't brushed up on core game modes that matter, like Association, I find that to be a matter of taste, not a matter of gimmick vs. non-gimmick. I find the legends to be just as much of a core to the game as Association.

[Ramboooo]

I think seeing how sports games evolved, the main ingredients have been gameplay, a league mode, graphics, presentation... pretty much? Even tecmo bowl had these core elements. League turned into Association then online leagues and online associations. With online it's evolved even more, my player than multi-player my player. I think the next step with that will be a league or association version of Crew.

A gimmick to me is something that really doesn't have much importance as far as replay value or realism to the NBA. Like sock color vs signature moves... I think I can live with a sock being aqua instead of teal or something lol, as opposed to signature moves which is core gameplay and help bring the game to life and uniqueness to each player. Problem with NBA Live was they were pushing gimmicks like shoes at the expense of functioning gameplay. That's when gimmicks are a problem is when they take away from other modes that need attention. That's not been a problem for 2K cuz they get the core stuff right and then add on cool features that bring replay value.

[aloncho11]

I just realized this is perhaps the first time I've seen a video where Erick has allowed a question and mentioned something about Charles Barkley.