NBA 2K22 channels their inner GTA V with The City

NBA 2K22 revealed tons of features this week that fans are looking forward to trying, but none seems more intriguing than the return of The City.

This unique online mode was added just last year on next gen, and it looks like they're taking some cues from GTA V when it arrives in NBA 2K22.

NBA 2K22 is giving off GTA V vibes with The City

Last year, NBA 2K21 released the first next-gen version of the game on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S with the debut of The City.

This basketball-fueled online open-world RPG experience was nothing short of groundbreaking for sports gaming, and they're going a step further this year.

While players sorta just existed on the street last year, a depressingly ironic thought considering the amount of players who had NBA aspirations and may be homeless today, things will be different in NBA 2K22.

This time, not unlike GTA V, your MyPLAYER will have their own house in The City, and it's not one that will be set in stone or remain stagnant throughout your NBA 2K22 journey.

As your MyPLAYER character levels up and grows to superstardom in the NBA, you'll be able to improve your living situation and get an even better house to return to as your home base in The City.

On top of that, players will be able to seek endorsement deals and even side ventures to make extra cash, such as a hip-hop label or fashion line, which are sure to also help you upgrade things.

The City is a sprawling open-world environment with pickup basketball games at every turn, but you can speed up your travel with a trusty skateboard.

We know that item is returning because of one of this year's pre order rewards, as anyone who gets the NBA 2K22 75th Anniversary Edition will receive a custom-design skateboard for their MyPLAYER.

You can find more details on rewards with each edition and pre order today by clicking here.

Open-world RPG experience will be next gen exclusive again

Unfortunately, this exciting way to play will only be available to gamers with who have NBA 2K22 on PS5 or Xbox Series X|S.

Meanwhile, users on PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and PS4 can enjoy a delightful cruise ship which is attempting to cover for all of current gen NBA 2K22's missing features.

In The City, you'll also get the first taste this year of proper matchmaking options, making it easier and quicker to get in on a game with other players online than ever before.

The City will be integrally linked to MyCAREER this year, carrying over progress between both game modes and allowing you to level up in either spot.

Unfortunately, we haven't gotten any footage yet of what The City and MyCAREER will look like in NBA 2K22, but we're expecting to hear more details about both modes in early September.