NBA Showtime – NBA on NBC (N64)

Game Overview

The gameplay focuses on fast-paced, 2-on-2 arcade basketball action where standard rules take a backseat to gravity-defying dunks, intense shoves, and high-energy momentum swings. Players can select from over 130 real NBA players across all official 1999–2000 season rosters, complete with hidden characters, mascots, and a robust Create-A-Player suite to build custom ballers with specialized attribute sliders.

Borrowing the famous gameplay engine from NFL Blitz, players can shove opponents, steal the ball with aggressive swipes, and hit consecutive baskets to trigger the legendary "On Fire" status—granting unlimited turbo, unbreakable shooting accuracy, and superhuman jumping abilities. Complete with the iconic NBA on NBC theme music and broadcast aesthetics, it remains one of the most beloved arcade sports titles on the platform.

Quick Specifications

• Platform: Nintendo 64

• Developer: Eurocom / Midway Games

• Publisher: Midway Games

• Release Date: September 1999 (North America), November 1999 (Europe)

• Genre: Arcade Sports / Basketball

• Modes: Single-player Arcade Ladder, Tournament, Multiplayer (up to 4 players)

• Peripheral Support: Nintendo 64 Controller Pak, Rumble Pak

Key Features

• Arcade 2-on-2 Action: Experience fast, exaggerated basketball featuring massive mid-air dunks, aggressive shoves, and zero strict foul penalties.

• The "On Fire" Mechanic: Chain together consecutive successful baskets and stops to set your player on fire, unlocking infinite turbo and unstoppable scoring power.

• Robust Create-A-Player System: Design custom athletes, adjust individual skill ratings, and unlock secret characters and team mascots.

• Official NBC Presentation: Enjoy authentic NBA on NBC branding, broadcast camera angles, and high-energy sports commentary.

• Four-Player Local Multiplayer: Compete against friends in chaotic two-on-two cooperative or head-to-head couch matchups.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Is NBA Showtime related to NBA Jam and NBA Hangtime?

Yes, it was created by the same creative lineage at Midway, serving as the spiritual and mechanical successor to NBA Jam and NBA Hangtime, but infused with official NBC television broadcast branding.

Can you commit fouls or get called for them?

While you can shove opponents and steal aggressively, there are no traditional referee whistles or free-throw penalty rules—physical defense is heavily encouraged!

How many players can participate in local multiplayer?

The game supports up to four players simultaneously using standard N64 controllers, allowing for full two-on-two competitive showdowns.

Does the game require a Controller Pak to save progress?

Yes, a Nintendo 64 Controller Pak is necessary to save custom created players, tournament ladder progress, user profile records, and game stats.