Play NBA Jam Online
NBA Jam is one of the most beloved and iconic basketball video games of all time. Developed by Midway Games in 1993, it was originally released for arcades and then ported to home console systems such as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and the Sega Genesis. In 1995, NBA Jam was released for the Nintendo Game Boy, allowing players to take their game on the go.
The premise of NBA Jam is simple: two-on-two basketball with over-the-top action and no rules. Players can choose from any team in either the Eastern or Western Conference, as well as several secret teams such as a team featuring Bill Clinton and Al Gore. The rosters were up-to-date at the time of release, so players could play with their favorite NBA stars of that era such as Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Hakeem Olajuwon, Patrick Ewing, etc.
One of the best aspects of NBA Jam is its unique gameplay style. Instead of playing a realistic simulation game like other basketball titles at that time (such as Electronic Arts’ NBA Live), this game emphasizes arcade style fun with outrageous dunks and slams that defy physics and gravity. Players have access to a variety of power ups including turbo boosts which allow them to run faster than normal; super shots which increase shot accuracy; fireballs which make shots unblockable; and more!
In addition to its fast paced action and unique power ups, what really sets NBA Jam apart from other basketball titles are its humorous sound effects and catchphrases uttered by announcer Tim Kitzrow throughout each game session. Phrases such as “He’s on fire!” when a player makes three consecutive baskets without missing; or “Boomshakalaka!” when a player completes an especially impressive dunk; have become staples in pop culture due to their inclusion in this classic title.
Though it has been over 25 years since its original release, NBA Jam remains an incredibly popular title even today thanks to its vibrant graphics; easy to learn controls; wacky yet balanced gameplay; humorously quotable sound clips; nostalgic appeal; and lasting legacy within both sports gaming circles and mainstream pop culture alike. It has been rereleased multiple times over the years on various platforms including iOS devices, Xbox Live Arcade & PlayStation Network services, Wii Virtual Console service, Android devices & more recently on Nintendo Switch Online service in 2020 - proving that sometimes simple can be timelessly enjoyable!
