REVIEW: ‘Dunk City Dynasty’ Combines Streetball And NBA Stars

Dunk City Dynasty is an officially licensed streetball game that brings the stars of the NBA to the streets in thrilling matchups. It is free to play on Android and iOS and allows players to enjoy quick games on the go. It is an enjoyable experience that harkens back to the days of the NBA Street franchise.

The main appeal of Dunk City Dynasty is the ability to fully control real-life players in a less professional setting. Countless current NBA players can be unlocked by playing and completing objectives to earn rewards. Players have to start with some lesser-known names, like Seth Curry, the brother of superstar Steph Curry, and can work their way towards unlocking elite players like Kevin Durant and Luka Doncic.

The primary game is online 3v3 action, specifically the first-to-11-points mode. 3v3 pits two teams of three against each other, and the first to score 11 points wins. This mode is used as a tutorial to explain the different movement mechanics.

Offensive buttons include passing, a step move to get around defenders, and two different types of shots. Defensively, players can defend, steal, go for a block, or attempt to box out the other players. Every player also has a special move that is unlocked as the game progresses, and they almost always guarantee a made shot.

Focus is more on 3v3 action, making it super easy to pick up.

These mechanics combine to make 3v3 incredibly simple to pick up, bringing players into the action as quickly as possible. Games go by fast, too, making it perfect for a quick session on the go. You don’t have to dedicate serious time to find enjoyment, which is excellent for people who can only play in short bursts.

Classic 3v3 takes the gameplay of the first-to-11-points but makes it a scoring free-for-all. It is less controlled than first-to-11 but does make it easier to mount a comeback and can make the games a bit longer. It is a happy medium for players with a little more time but don’t want to dedicate themselves to a full game.

There is plenty for Dunk City Dynasty players who have more time to dedicate. Full court 5v5 games bring extra players and extra time, with the highest-scoring team after two two-minute halves declared the victors. Players get to bring in their own lineup of five players that they can swap between. It’s as close to a real NBA game as Dunk City Dynasty gets, and it is plenty of fun.

Dynasty mode is 3v3 action, but the players control their whole team. There is some offensive and defensive strategy involved, too. That strategy isn’t too in-depth, but it is something Dunk City Dynasty could expand on in the future. It won’t scratch the itch like NBA 2K does, but there is a nice balance between arcade and realistic play.

Dunk City Dynasty finds a happy balance between real-time basketball and arcade gaming.

Dunk City Dynasty also offers plenty of customization. Courts and shoes can be customized to bring your dream team to life. While this isn’t the most attractive part of the game, it is nice to have some options to play around with the visual aesthetic of the game.

Speaking of visuals, Dunk City Dynasty looks quite good in action. The art style gives players an arcade look that makes it clear this isn’t a “serious” basketball game while still making them look like their authentic selves. The player designs and beautiful court settings work great in tandem, too, delivering an enjoyable and smooth visual experience while playing. Visual cues, like when a player starts their jump shot, are vital for timing your moves, so it’s great that there are so many details to the movements while still feeling like an arcade game.

Dunk City Dynasty is an enjoyable arcade game, and it is easy to lose track of time in the fast-paced game sessions. There is plenty to enjoy for NBA fans and those new to the game, even if it doesn’t offer the most in-depth experience.

Dunk City Dynasty is out now on iOS and Android.