Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

NBA Live 96 builds on the solid foundation of its predecessors by offering a robust suite of modes that keep you engaged for hours. Whether you’re jumping into a quick Exhibition match or committing to a full-length Season campaign, the game’s pacing and depth cater to both casual pick-up-and-play fans and stat-driven basketball strategists. The inclusion of the new Vancouver Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors rounds out the league to 29 teams, giving you the chance to relive the expansion era or build a dynasty from day one.

One of the standout features is the comprehensive team management system. You can draft new talent, negotiate trades, and even edit player attributes—allowing you to craft an all-star roster tailored to your style. The AI does a commendable job of challenging you both on the court and in the front office, as computer-controlled GMs will aggressively pursue star players, forcing you to think twice before making blockbuster moves.

On the court, the control scheme strikes a nice balance between accessibility and depth. Passing, shooting, and defensive maneuvers feel responsive, and a handful of signature moves—such as spin-drives and no-look passes—inject the right amount of flair. Special moves are unlocked through momentum and timing, rewarding players who master their timing. All told, NBA Live 96 excels at making every possession feel meaningful, whether you’re running a pick-and-roll or executing a full-court press.

Graphics

For a mid-’90s basketball title, NBA Live 96’s visuals hold up remarkably well. Player sprites are detailed enough to distinguish stars from role players, and the court environments showcase realistic hardwood textures, team logos, and arena backdrops. Lighting effects and dynamic shadows add depth, making every dunk and three-pointer pop off the screen.

Animations are fluid without being overly flashy. You’ll see smooth transitions on jumpshots, layups, and defensive blocks, and the motion capture work helps replicate the real-life mechanics of NBA athletes. Crowd animations—while not individual—shift in unison to simulate the thrill of a packed arena, heightening the sense of immersion during tight playoff games.

Menu screens and stat overlays are well-designed, offering quick access to box scores, standings, and player bios. Although the color palette leans into bright primary hues, this choice keeps the court and UI elements distinct and easy to read, even in the heat of fast-paced gameplay.

Story

While NBA Live 96 doesn’t feature a traditional narrative campaign, it tells its story through the ebb and flow of a full NBA season. Each victory and defeat carries significance as you jockey for playoff seeding, chase individual accolades, or attempt a mid-season turnaround. The franchise mode acts as a living storyline, with every trade rumor or breakout rookie performance adding new twists.

The in-game commentary and play-by-play announcements help bring each match to life. Although repetitive after long sessions, the voice lines are generally on point, capturing the excitement of a buzzer-beating three or the intensity of a 4th-quarter defensive stand. Between quarters, quick replays of highlight-worthy plays reinforce the feel of watching a live broadcast.

In the absence of cutscenes or scripted events, the narrative emerges organically from your decisions. Will you keep your veteran core intact, or trade aging stars for draft picks? Every choice shapes the trajectory of your virtual franchise, making your journey feel uniquely personal.

Overall Experience

NBA Live 96 stands as a high point in mid-’90s sports gaming, delivering a complete package that balances on-court action with off-court management. The ability to play through a full season, dive into the playoffs, or simply jump into an exhibition ensures there’s always a mode that fits your mood. With 29 teams to choose from, including two fresh expansion squads, variety is baked right into the experience.

Its depth of customization—from creating dream teams to editing player stats—means you’re never stuck with a static roster. Combine this with responsive controls and solid AI, and you have a title that rewards both skillful play and strategic thinking. Whether you’re a longtime basketball fan or someone looking for an accessible sports sim, NBA Live 96 offers something for everyone.

In the end, NBA Live 96 captures the excitement of NBA basketball in a way that still resonates decades later. It may lack a conventional story mode, but its blend of management options, engaging gameplay, and solid presentation make it a timeless entry in the series. For anyone seeking a classic hoops experience with ample replay value, this mid-’90s gem is well worth adding to your collection.

Retro Replay Score

8/10