While lacking the modes the console version has, NBA Jam is pure arcade action, and for only $1, you can't go wrong.
NBA Jam on the iPod Touch is simply arcade action. No extra modes besides Classic Campaign, but it hardly mattered to me, because I was never really a big fan of the extra modes on the consoles anyways. Gameplay is arcade basketball at it's best, no fouls, no complications, just get to the basket and get the ball in, or, preferably, you can slam the baby home in a high-flying funk. Score three times in a row with the same person without the other team scoring a "legit" basket (thank god for goaltending, the only "foul" in the game) and that person will be on fire. When on fire, your shots are harder to block, you have unlimited turbo, and you can perform extremely high-flying dunk that will surely put you oppenet down and give you a boost of confidence. It's just like the arcade.
Controls are simple. There are three buttons, green, turbo (red), and blue. Green and blue have different uses depending to the situation. They are very easy to learn.
The sound is great. Tim Kitzrow does a great job as the announcer, with so many things to say, including the classic "Boom-shaka-laka!!!". He is very energetic and full of great catchphrases, which is perfect for this game. My only problem with the music is the fact that there are only a few tunes, and there is no option to use your own songs.Other than that, the music is great.
The graphics honestly look as good as they do on the 360 or Wii. That's quite an accomplishment, but even if it was like the original arcade graphics, I wouldn't give a crap.
There are heaps of unlockables in this game. You can earn then by completing many challenges. Or, you can just buy the "Big Man Pack" for $3 and unlock everything. Your choice.
THE VERDICT!
Pros:
Simple, addicting, arcadey, and very fun gameplay (+6.5)
Simple and great controls (+1.0)
Great sound (+0.5)
Nice graphics (+0.5)
Heaps of unlockables (+1.0)
Cons:
NOTHING!!!
Overall, NBA Jam on the iPod is a must-buy. It's even better than the original arcade version, better than the console version, and only $1. For half the price of a toothpaste tube, what how can you go wrong with this amazing game? If you own a iPod and have a dollar to spend, you have to get this game.
FINAL SCORE:
9.5 out of 10 (Superb, highly reccommend, must buy)