NBA 2K13 Cover Revealed: Durant, Rose & Griffin!
Is it a bold move or a stroke of genius? The cover of NBA 2K13, released in 2012, boldly showcased not one, but three of the NBA's rising stars: Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, and Blake Griffin. This marked a significant departure from the series' history, opting for a trio of contemporary talents over a single, established icon or a nostalgic nod to the past.
The announcement, made by 2K Sports, sent ripples through the gaming and basketball communities. The choice, unveiled on a Tuesday, signaled a shift in philosophy, a conscious effort to spotlight the league's present and future. While the allure of legends remains strong, the decision to feature Durant, Rose, and Griffin, all in their early twenties at the time, was a clear statement about the direction of the NBA and the 2K franchise. The game itself was developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Sports.
This was a pivotal moment, the fourteenth installment in the NBA 2K series. It was released in North America on October 2, 2012, for a variety of platforms including Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows, and Wii. A version for the Wii U was also released as a launch title in North America, and in December for the PAL region. This release signified a changing of the guard, the series taking a gamble on youth and potential. The game also wasn't released for the Playstation 2, which made it a first in the series.
| Player | Key Information | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kevin Durant |
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| Derrick Rose |
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| Blake Griffin |
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Official NBA Website for More Information
The game, however, was not without its critics. Some felt that it lacked significant new features compared to its predecessor, NBA 2K12, and the removal of the League Play online feature disappointed many. Even with these drawbacks, the decision to showcase the future of basketball on the cover proved to be a commercial success. While the exact numbers might vary, it is worth noting that NBA 2K12, the game preceding 2K13, shipped five million units, setting a high bar for the follow-up.
The release of NBA 2K13 was also marked by specific editions and regional variations. The practice of creating unique collector's editions continued in subsequent years. NBA 2K16, for example, featured seven different cover stars, with some exclusive to certain regions. Canada, for example, received a custom edition of NBA 2K18. These localized versions added an extra layer of collectibility and personalization for fans around the world.
Looking back at the series' trajectory, the choice of cover athletes reflects the evolution of the NBA itself. From Allen Iverson in 1999 to Luka Doni in 2021, the NBA 2K series has consistently spotlighted both established legends and emerging stars. This strategic approach helps to connect with the fans. The cover of NBA 2K13 serves as a snapshot of a league in transition, the changing of the guard from established names to a new generation of talent.
The cover of NBA 2K13 wasn't just a marketing strategy; it was a statement. It was a bet on the future, a declaration that the game was not just about reliving the past but also about embracing the excitement and potential of the present. For Kevin Durant, gracing the cover was a dream come true, he said being crowned as one of the NBA 2K13 cover athletes is a huge honor and something i always dreamt about.
The impact of NBA 2K13 extended beyond the virtual court. The cover image, featuring Durant, Rose, and Griffin, became an iconic image of the era. It was a visual representation of the league's young talent, a symbol of hope and excitement for the future. The game also marks the first time that multiple players appear on the same cover. In this case, it showcased that the game was breaking away from previous games. The game aimed at the fans, showing the fan the exciting new chapter, also signaling that this game is all about moving forward and not looking behind.
The game's release also coincided with a period of change in the NBA. The lockout, which affected the 2011-2012 season, had recently ended, and the league was eager to rebuild and promote itself. The choice of young, dynamic players for the cover of NBA 2K13 aligned perfectly with this goal. It was a way of signaling to fans that the league was in good hands.
The anticipation for the game was palpable. Fan reactions ranged from excitement to slight trepidation, with many wondering if the new focus on younger players would pay off. Social media buzzed with discussions, predictions, and opinions. The release of the cover art itself became a significant event, generating headlines and sparking debates.
Beyond the players on the cover, the game itself offered an immersive basketball experience. From updated rosters to improved gameplay mechanics, the developers worked to deliver a realistic and engaging simulation of the sport. The game's online features allowed players to compete against each other. The game also incorporated some new features in 2K13.
The decision to feature multiple athletes on the cover was a gamble, but a well-calculated one. It acknowledged that the future of the NBA was in the hands of a new generation of stars, and the cover was a way of celebrating their achievements. The choice of these three athletes offered a glimpse into the evolution of the game, and also signaled the changing of the guard, from the old legends to the new stars. The series was moving to a new phase.
The legacy of NBA 2K13 goes far beyond its technical specifications and gameplay features. It served as a reflection of the era, a celebration of the NBA's rising stars. It was a bold move, but it perfectly encapsulated the changing of the guard in the NBA, heralding a new era in the sport and the gaming franchise.
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