NBA Hangtime: A Classic Arcade Basketball Experience
A Trip Down Memory Lane
NBA Hangtime, released in 1996 by Midway, is a beloved basketball arcade game that captured the hearts of many sports and gaming enthusiasts. Building on the success of the NBA Jam series, NBA Hangtime introduced several new features that set it apart from its predecessors. Though the name changed due to Acclaim Entertainment acquiring the rights to “NBA Jam,” Hangtime carried the torch with pride.
Innovative Features
One of the standout features of NBA Hangtime is the “Create Player” option, allowing gamers to customize their basketball avatar with unique attributes such as height, weight, power, shooting, and defensive skills. This customization added a personal touch and increased replayability as players could enhance their custom player by earning attribute points through victories.
The game also expanded on the signature NBA Jam gameplay by introducing new mechanics like spin moves, alley-oops, and double dunks. These additions not only enriched the gameplay but also introduced the “team fire” mode, where both team members could be “on fire,” bringing an extra layer of excitement to each match.
Home Versions and Reception
NBA Hangtime was released across multiple platforms, including the Nintendo 64, PlayStation, Super NES, Sega Genesis, and Microsoft Windows. Despite the game’s success in arcades, home versions received mixed reviews. Critics appreciated the create-a-player feature and multiplayer matches but felt the game offered little innovation beyond what NBA Jam had already provided.
Notably, the Nintendo 64 version was praised for retaining the arcade’s essence, though it didn’t fully utilize the console’s capabilities. In contrast, the PlayStation version suffered from long loading times, and reviewers recommended the N64 version for a smoother experience.
NBA Maximum Hangtime
In late 1996, Midway released an arcade update titled NBA Maximum Hangtime, which featured updated rosters and minor gameplay tweaks, such as hidden “hot spots” on the court for more accurate shooting. This update kept the game fresh and engaging for returning players.
Conclusion
NBA Hangtime is a testament to the golden age of arcade gaming, offering a mix of nostalgia and innovation. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer looking to experience retro gaming, NBA Hangtime is worth a shot. Its blend of classic two-on-two basketball action and creative new features ensures that it remains a cherished title in the pantheon of sports video games.