Game Review: NBA 2K12

As my long-suffering girlfriend will attest, I was a big fan of NBA 2K11.

From sneaking in a quick game instead of doing the dishes, to interrupting naps with howls of frustration, apologising for throwing controllers, to hearing the game's soundtrack for roughly the thousandth time.

With that in mind, I have to apologise to her in advance.

Because with NBA 2K12, she's in for another year of it.

Graphically, the players are spot on, with distinct playing styles and exceptional likenesses a highlight.

Although the gameplay can take awhile to pick up, once you've mastered the basics - there's enough on offer that will entertain rookies right through to grizzled gaming veterans.

Last year, the game hit a winner by showcasing basketball legend Michael "Air" Jordan.

Realising the appeal this retro move made - this year they've taken it up another notch with 15 legends of the game to be played and unlocked.

Then there's the modes: from creating your own player and taking him through the ranks to NBA superstar, to competing in one of the multiple online leagues, to taking control of your favourite franchise - there's a plethora of content to keep hoopheads in heaven for hours.

Although last year's version was great; this latest offering's superior graphics, animations, gameplay and content make this a serious contender for sports game of the year.

As my long-suffering girlfriend is going to find out, I'm a big fan of NBA 2K12.

NBA 2K12

Publisher: 2K Sports

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Wii, PC, iOS