Basketball games tend to fall into two camps: the serious simulations that cater to die-hard fans, and the lighthearted arcade experiences that focus on fast fun and flashy moves. With NBA Bounce, Outright Games and Unfinished Pixel are clearly aiming for the latter. Designed to be accessible to all ages while still offering a surprising amount of depth, the game brings NBA flair to a colorful arcade package. It’s a different approach than the hyper-realistic sports titles we usually see, and it immediately stood out at Gamescom as a family-friendly way to bring the sport to consoles and PC.
What we know
NBA Bounce gives players the chance to step onto the court with one of 30 official NBA teams, from legends like the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics to modern champions like the Denver Nuggets. While the game is officially licensed, it’s important to note that it doesn’t feature real players past or present. Instead, the focus is on mascots, themed courts, and an accessible pick-up-and-play style that embraces the fun side of basketball.
Modes include everything from full seasons and playoffs to training sessions and quick matches. There’s also a dedicated Party Mode, where mascots take the spotlight and mini-games like Ball Pop add a playful twist to the action. Unlockables such as jerseys, sneakers, and basketballs can be earned through play, encouraging progression and customization. Local multiplayer supports up to four players, making it a natural fit for couch co-op. The game is being positioned as a basketball title that anyone – whether a rookie or a seasoned gamer – can enjoy.
What we saw
During Gamescom, we joined Outright Games for a hands-on session with NBA Bounce. With the option to freely select teams, we played through a full match, testing the controls, mechanics, and flow of the game while getting a feel for its arcade-inspired take on basketball.
What we thought
It only took a few minutes for NBA Bounce to bring back memories of classics like NBA Jam and NBA Hangtime. The pace is quick, the controls are simple to pick up, and there’s an immediate sense of fun that makes it easy to get into. While the basics are straightforward, pulling off trickier moves like alley-oops or timed blocks adds a layer of skill that rewards practice and keeps matches lively. It’s the kind of game that works well for casual players but still gives veterans a reason to dig deeper.
The absence of real NBA players is bound to divide fans. On one hand, the mascots and team branding create a playful and approachable atmosphere that works for the game’s target audience. On the other, anyone hoping to slam dunk with their favorite star might feel a bit shortchanged by the focus on teams and mascots rather than actual rosters. Still, the official license lends credibility, and the vibrant mascot antics add a unique personality to the experience.
Visually, the game leans into a cartoonish art style that feels both accessible and appealing. Courts are colorful, mascots are full of energy, and the overall presentation is clearly built with families in mind. At the same time, there’s an open question about how well NBA Bounce can capture the intensity of a real NBA broadcast through its audio-visual package. Commentary, crowd noise, and on-court effects played a big role in the success of arcade staples like NBA Jam, and it remains to be seen if this game can replicate that same spark.
All told, NBA Bounce is shaping up to be a strong family-oriented contender in the arcade sports genre. It offers variety through its game modes, it’s easy to pick up but has room to master, and it nails the fun factor that’s so important for party play. Whether it becomes a long-term favorite will depend on how well it balances its family-friendly presentation with the deeper thrills of NBA-style spectacle, but our hands-on time left us optimistic about its potential.
Press Play Media 