Graphically NBA Live 07 scores very well. The character models look more realistic than they did last year and the basketball arenas are something to be drooled over. Once again EA brings us a game that really shows off the power of the Xbox 360, the sweat literally pours off tired players. Digitally inserting every NBA players tattoos was something that, while it might be a gimmick to some, to me really adds to the realism of the game. When you are on the free throw line and everything looks identical to that of an actual television game there is just something that screams next-gen. The score would have been higher had there not been some animation problems that make some players look like they should be in Mech Warrior instead of shooting hoops. One thing I cannot forget to mention is the menus, giving players the ability to shoot around while loading is simply brilliant. The transition from shooting around to being in-game is simply amazing and the other aspects of the introductions are right on. This is the best-looking basketball game out there for the Xbox 360.
The audio department in a sports game is always hard to talk about. There is never usually that much innovation with sound and the music is always the same old rehash of popular hip hop or alternative music that EA decides to throw in the game. This year though EA has thrown me a curve ball and included something that by itself is worth mentioning. The relationship that EA has with ESPN has finally paid off because as soon as you boot up NBA Live you are greeted with ESPN Sports Center radio (if your 360 is connected to the internet) where you get updated scores or the latest news in the sports universe. There is nothing like reviewing a video game and hearing (in game) that TO tried to commit suicide, classic. The other sound effects, music, and ambient noises are there in NBA Live 07 and are just average. But they do the job.
Overall NBA Live 07 is my pick for the basketball game to get this season. Many others may be loyal to one franchise or another, but for me it is about the overall experience and what features are new to the game. The game modes, including my personal favorite the All Star weekend, are a joy to play and you will not get bored fast with Live 07. Taking the game online with 3 of your buddies is something that you have to try, even if just renting this game. Graphically the game is better than last year and the control scheme tries something new that adds to the fun factor of every match up. Throw in the insanely smart AI and the ESPN connections and NBA Live 07 adds up to a good but not great basketball title.
