NCAA Basketball 09 Image
Metascore

Mixed or average reviews - based on 23 Critics What's this?

User Score

Mixed or average reviews- based on 8 Ratings

  • Summary: NCAA Basketball 09 operates on a new gameplay engine with over 1,000 new animation sequences that deliver a more responsive experience with improved ball physics and more intelligent AI. The new animation system enables gamers to apply pressure defense with new full-court presses and traps. Plus, improved AI and animations enable quicker players to get up and down the floor faster and make better decisions running the lanes and driving to the rim. Animations can be interrupted at any time, enabling you to read and respond to the action on the floor, just like real life. Feel the excitement of game night with the band playing fight songs, the student section leading the cheers and popular ESPN college basketball broadcasters Dick Vitale, Brad Nessler, and Erin Andrews providing the commentary. [Electronic Arts] Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 23
  2. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. The revamped NCAA Basketball 09 does a nice job of giving bracketheads what they want, despite some freshman jitters with its new engine. Even though NCAA Basketball 09 may not be a Final Four lock, it’s clear that the franchise has a winning road ahead of it.
  2. The dedication to simulating college hoops will entice veterans and push away newcomers.
  3. NCAA Basketball 09 may not offer the wealth of options or polished gameplay of its former competition, but it’s still a decent baller worthy of a look from hardcore college hoops fans.
  4. 72
    Overall, while the game is a significant improvement over last years version, it's disappointing that many of the problems with the game weren't ironed out.

See all 23 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 1 out of 3
  1. MattH
    10
    I think this game looks amazing. The graphics are so frickin amazing! Best AI I have ever seen in my life. I love that Blue Ribbon is teamed up with EA. Plus, Erin Andrews is one fine piece of meat! Expand
  2. JobA
    9
    Wow,I'm all about 2k.I have played all the 2k games,All OF THEM!From the Dreamcast to now and I have never felt the college atmosphere like this game and EA's football.I love college hoops 2k6,2k7,2k8 but this has changed the way I look at college basketball and the way i play it.Even if 2k still made there college basketball game I would still prefer this game in a heartbeat unless there was some major improvements.This game screams greatness all over it.I haven't played there march madness edition or ncaa basketball 10 but I'm loving this right now.Great job EA!!!9.2 Expand
  3. CordiaL
    1
    Worst basketball game I ever played. If you were a fan the NCAA 2K series, just accept you will not be playing an NCAA b-ball game anytime soon. EA mailed it in. Expand