Definition
NBA ShootOut 98 is a basketball simulation video game developed by Sony Interactive Studios America (later 989 Sports) and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation console. It is the second installment in the NBA ShootOut series and features licensed National Basketball Association (NBA) teams and players from the 1997–1998 season.
Overview
Released in North America in November 1997 and subsequently in other regions in early 1998, NBA ShootOut 98 offers a realistic representation of professional basketball. The game includes multiple modes such as Exhibition, Season, Playoffs, and a Player Creation system. It supports single‑player and multiplayer gameplay, allowing up to two players to compete simultaneously. NBA ShootOut 98 received mixed to positive reviews, with critics noting improvements in graphics and player animation over its predecessor but also pointing out occasional performance issues.
Etymology / Origin
The title combines “NBA,” the abbreviation for the National Basketball Association, with the term “ShootOut,” which suggests a focus on shooting and scoring—a common motif in sports video games. The “98” suffix denotes the season year the game’s rosters and statistics are based on (1997–1998).
Characteristics
- Platform: PlayStation (original generation).
- Developer/Publisher: Developed by Sony Interactive Studios America, later operating under the 989 Sports label; published by Sony Computer Entertainment.
- Licensing: Official NBA license, providing authentic team logos, colors, and player names.
- Gameplay Modes:
- Exhibition: Single games with selectable teams.
- Season: Full 82‑game regular season simulation with statistical tracking.
- Playoffs: Post‑season bracket based on season performance.
- Create-a-Player: Tools for designing custom athletes.
- Graphics & Animation: Utilizes polygonal 3D models with Motion Capture technology to improve player movement realism. The game features dynamic camera angles and real‑time replays.
- Audio: Includes commentary from sportscasters and crowd ambience; the soundtrack consists of contemporary hip‑hop and R&B tracks typical of the era.
- Controls: Supports the PlayStation DualShock controller, providing analog stick movement for player navigation and button combinations for shooting, passing, and defensive actions.
- Multiplayer: Split‑screen play for two participants, with optional tournament modes supporting multiple consoles via link cable (limited to certain regions).
Related Topics
- NBA ShootOut series – The broader franchise, including titles such as NBA ShootOut (1996) and NBA ShootOut 99 (1998).
- 1997–1998 NBA season – The professional basketball season whose rosters and statistics are represented in the game.
- Competing NBA video game franchises – Notably NBA Live (EA Sports) and NBA Jam (Midway Games), which were contemporary releases targeting similar audiences.
- 989 Sports – The sports game development division of Sony Computer Entertainment responsible for several basketball titles during the late 1990s.
Note: All information presented is based on documented releases, developer statements, and contemporary reviews from reputable gaming publications.