Visual Concepts knows how to make a great basketball game. Of course, it's been producing them for years, starting way back on the Sega Dreamcast and eventually moving on to more complex game machines. However, this year's NBA 2K8 feels like its most complete basketball experience yet, a game that just misses being a perfect digital recreation of the sport.

First off, the 24/7 mode has been done away with. However, before you write that letter of complaint, be sure to check out its replacement, the NBA Blacktop mode. Here you take part in a number of all-star activities. The dunk contest in particular deserves attention, if only because it's done so damn well. Set up props, go for a stylish approach (you have the option to rebound the ball to yourself off the backboard ala Tracy McGrady) and finally, get the dunk with the help of a multi-directional analog stick push or twirl and trigger executions. It takes practice -- lots of practice, in fact, since there's no visual demonstration -- but once you get the hang of it, it's a blast. Three-point shoot-outs and pick-up games are also available, playable both off-line with friends and through Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network.

Those who prefer the simulation side of the sport should check out the game's Association Mode. You have to struggle with all kinds of difficulties -- annoying owners, players with unique personalities, etc. -- upon building the next great NBA Dynasty. Scouting players, courting free agency, associating "labels" to particular players depending on their approach to the game and other small things really play a part here, as you feel every aspect of control from behind the scenes. If you're a casual player, you may want to stick with Season or Playoffs mode instead, as Association demands a whole lot of time and confident decisions to make something click. If you're eager to learn the aspect of the creation of the ultimate team, though, get your shoes on and hit the court. You'll love it here -- especially the online draft, where you'll compete with others for free agents. Aside from these four modes, 2K8 also provides a fun Rookie Challenge straight out of the All-Star Weekend, a helpful Practice mode and a Situation mode, where you set up positions, time-outs and such to customize the ultimate comeback win.

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