'NBA 2K17' release date news: New trailer highlights gameplay and design improvements

Shooting guard Paul George seen with his Team USA uniform in the cover photo of the 'NBA 2K17.' 2K Sports

"NBA 2K17" is shaping up to be the most realistic hoops sim title in the franchise to date.

Publisher 2K Sports has dropped a new trailer highlighting the new franchise installment ahead of its release next month. The video footage, while showcasing the new in-game details for the upcoming title like player switches, jerseys, and courts, is also garnering favorable first impressions. The new trailer also gives fans an early peek on what to expect from "NBA 2K17."

According to Popular Science, one highlight of the new video is that players – both computer- and player-controlled – now have to joust for the ball more accurately, since the game physics now allows that ball to actually ricochet off player limbs. This makes for more realistic plays since the AI for the game has also been revamped, so players will need to jostle for good positions in the court.

Meanwhile, Bleacher Report praises the new game's "jaw-dropping graphics" and fluid visual transitions, as it clearly showcases players able to interact with each other while vying for the ball. The industry follower also mentions developer Visual Concepts' attention to detail, as seen in different players' trademark poses and on-court habits.

With a new trailer showcasing the title, 2K Sports has also surprised fans by confirming an early peek for the game. Prior to its full-version release, "NBA 2K17" will have a free download demo that will serve as early access for hoops fans. Dubbed as "The Prelude," the demo will be available for download on Sept. 9 and will let gamers on the PS4 and Xbox One play the introduction of the single-player MyCareer mode. This means that players will be able to create and customize their own superstars, and the characters may even have the likeness of the player via the face-scanning mobile app to be release on Sept. 8.

"NBA 2K17" will be released Sept. 20 for the current-gen PS4 and Xbox One, older consoles PS3 and Xbox 360, and Windows PC.

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