Big Ballin'

If you're looking for an authentic game of arcade basketball, look no further: NBA Live 06 is a slam dunk. Offering a host of improvements over predecessor NBA Live 2005, it features every bit as much action, excitement and rim-rocking, trash-talking drama as the real-world sport. Boasting some of the finest five-on-five hardwood encounters ever seen, the game's sure to blow you out of your Nikes. Why? A sweeping range of seasonal upgrades ensures that the number one name in virtual jump shots easily earns its MVP status. Here's a look at the hoop dream's newest and most meaningful additions.

Yo ... I ain't messing with that!

Hot Shots
Celebrity athletes like Shaquille O'Neal, Jason Kidd, and Kobe Bryant are famous for a reason — they dominate the court. So it makes sense that these individuals shouldn't play like the average point guard. Enter the new Freestyle Superstar system.

Players who qualify for Freestyle Superstar status are grouped into half a dozen different character types. Hold the left trigger button and press one of your controller's face buttons, and they execute stunning fadeaways, monster lay-ups, and dazzling dribbles. These special moves allow you to make the most of larger-than-life personalities, who finally perform at the heightened level you expect when stacked against lesser competitors.

• High-Flyer: Capable of hopping around like a rabbit, these players enjoy enhanced dunking abilities and a decent range of passing options.
• Playmaker: These guys are passing machines that live to set up teammates for a score. They can dish out no-look and behind-the-back handoffs without breaking a sweat.
• Power: Get out of the way when these monsters come charging forward. The sultans of slam dunks, power players become nearly unstoppable once they're in the paint.
• Scorer: Most recognized for their creativity, they can switch hands, bust out behind-the-back maneuvers, reverse the ball -- these guys do whatever it takes to put points on the board.
• Shooter: Human cannons, these players look to shoot as soon as they touch the ball. Choose from set shots or bank shots to improve their accuracy, then begin nailing flashy three-pointers from way downtown.
• Stoppers: Like living walls, you won't get past them. The league's top defenders, these guys steal, block, and rebound like their lives depend on it.

Attaboy! Up and away!

Super Speed
Basketball's a fluid sport that moves at a constantly fluctuating pace. NBA Live 06 accounts for this by offering an improved tempo and sharper transitions as the rock changes hands. Fast breaks appear faster. Passes zip across the screen at a speedy clip. Convincing collisions actually make you wince. Breakaways gain greater impact. Thanks to slicker animations and improved response times, solo games and multiplayer match-ups move along at a whirlwind rate. So much for bathroom breaks.

History 101
Once again, Dynasty Mode lets you make history ... only now, the process is easier thanks to new enhancements. For example, the ability to hire supporting staff such as scouts, trainers, and assistant coaches. All help get your team in fighting shape, although you can also track and enhance athletes' skills using player evolution options. Keep chucking would-be legends the ball and help them achieve record-breaking runs, and watch fresh-faced newcomers turn into seasoned Freestyle Superstars.

See anyone you recognize?

Gorgeous George
That's right — those glittering graphics are receiving an overhaul. Look closely, and spot the shine on stadium floors or grimace on athletes' faces. Muscles ripple beneath flesh, jerseys stretch, and fingers flex as your favorite NBA All-Stars aim for the net. From crowds to character models and arenas, all visual assets have been the recipient of an extreme makeover. And it really shows, especially in 720p high-def resolution.

Smooth Talker
Play-by-play commentary gets a boost thanks to the addition of analyst Steve Kerr. Joining Marv Albert in the booth, he helps keep track of the action. Witty back-and-forth banter is a given, as is an excellent supporting performance by Ernie Johnson and Kenny Smith, who handle coverage during the All-Star Weekend.

Stomachs make great stepping stools.

Star Player
Accessible as a separate game or from within the Dynasty options, All-Star Weekend is back with a vengeance. Among the various activities: the Rookie Challenge, Three-Point Shootout, and the main event itself. But it's the Slam Dunk Contest that's most compelling, letting you create cool new maneuvers while beating the heck out of the backboard.

By Chris Zimmerman