NBA 2K All Star to launch at the end of next month, bringing the top-flight basketball sim to mobile

With the ever-growing prowess of mobile gaming, it's no shock to see sports simulators, a staple in AAA gaming, making their mark on mobile platforms. However, the collaboration between Tencent and the NBA to launch NBA 2K All Star on mobile devices specifically in China is a noteworthy development. Scheduled for release on March 25th, this mobile adaptation aims to deliver a live-service experience of the beloved series to fans in the East.

The partnership between Tencent and the NBA might not come as a surprise given their prominence in the gaming and sports worlds, respectively. What might intrigue you, though, is the significant basketball fanbase in China, where Tencent is based. The country boasts a huge audience for the sport, making the introduction of NBA 2K All Star to mobile a strategic move.

Given the popularity of basketball in China, the arrival of NBA 2K All Star on mobile platforms feels less unexpected. What's intriguing, however, is the game's departure from the traditional year-based branding seen in previous NBA 2K titles (like 2K24, 2K25). Could this signal a shift towards a long-term live service model? Only time will tell as we await the game's launch on March 25th in China.

Shoot for the hoopUntil we get more concrete details about NBA 2K All Star, much of what we can discuss remains speculative. Yet, this speculation is insightful, especially considering the NBA's increasing focus on mobile gaming. Another example of this trend is the release of Dunk City Dynasty, also developed in collaboration with the NBA. While there have been setbacks, such as NBA All World's gradual decline after a highly anticipated launch, the overall trajectory suggests that mobile gaming is becoming a crucial avenue for the NBA to engage with its fanbase.

If you're keen on staying ahead in the gaming world, don't miss out on our regular feature, "Ahead of the Game," where we spotlight the top upcoming releases you can dive into early.