Crew mode returns in NBA 2K14

2K Sports announced today that the Crew game mode will return this year in NBA 2K14. It will be exclusive to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the game.

The cooperative multiplayer mode was introduced in NBA 2K10, but was not featured in NBA2K12 or NBA 2K13.

2K Sports said it was the "single-most requested" game mode for this year's game.

In NBA 2K14, players will be able to face off against other Crews in 5-on-5 matches. Leaderboards and statistics are also supported.

2K Sports also announced today that Euroleague teams will be supported in NBA 2K14. Fourteen of the "top" European teams, along with authentic uniforms and players, will be featured.

Some of NBA 2K14's other features include a soundtrack chosen by cover star Lebron James, "dynamic living rosters" powered by Stats, Inc., and a MyTEAM mode with single- and multiplayer tournaments.

In addition, NBA 2K14 boasts new Pro Stick gameplay control, allowing players to pull of no-look passes and "intricate" passes with "deadly accuracy." On top of this, a new Smart Play Button will let players quickly call the most suitable play for the context of the game.

In all, NBA 2K14 features more than 3,000 new animations.

Some general gameplay upgrades in NBA2K14 include additional "signature skills" for each player, as well as enhancements to the game's playbook and play systems. On offense, 2K Sports said players will see more realistic footwork on jump shots, a new branching system for dribbling, and more accurate targeting for passing.

Defense in NBA 2K14 has also been improved, according to 2K Sports. New defensive AI will see where the offense is being successful and adjust accordingly. In addition, the blocking system has been "completely revamped," 2K said, and will feature more realistic physics. Players will also have expanded defensive commands, able to use the right stick to contest shots and passes, and deny or pressure an incoming ball.

Developed by Visual Concepts, NBA 2K14 launches October 1 for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The game will also release for PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4 later this year. A Wii U version is not in development.