NBA 2K26players can look forward to significant improvements to the game’s ProPLAY movement system when it launches later this year, though there’s a catch as this system will only be available on PC and next-gen consoles. According to 2K, the updated ProPLAY system inNBA 2K26marks the most significant change to player movement since2K21.
Thecampaign roadmap forNBA 2K26that outlines what players can look forward to leading up to the game’s release has already been shared by 2K and includes several reveals for August 2025 that delve deeper into systems like MyPLAYER Builder. 2K has also rolled out a 10% Loyalty Discount forNBA 2K25owners who pre-orderNBA 2K26Leave No Doubt Edition on the same console where they purchasedNBA 2K25.
One of the more notable improvements toNBA 2K26is its upgraded ProPLAY movement system that “directly translates NBA footage” into the game, allowing players to tap into the moves of stars likethe cover athlete forNBA 2K26, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. According to 2K, the latest version of ProPLAY inNBA 2K26will utilize new machine-learning technology in order to offer more realistic movement. However, the feature will only be available on next-gen consoles like Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5, along with Nintendo Switch 2 and PC.NBA 2K26will also be available on last-generation consoles including Xbox One and PlayStation 4, though neither will have access to the updated ProPLAY feature.
NBA 2K26 Updated Movement System Available on Select Platforms
Despite only being available on select platforms, theupdated ProPLAY system inNBA 2K26will offer a host of improvements that players are likely to appreciate. For example, dynamic lower-body pose matching will now adjust the position of players’ legs and feet in the game to help remove the “skating” observed in previous titles. Rhythm Shooting is getting a boost as well, with Shot Timing and Tempo now able to manipulate the shooter’s upper body, impacting how the shot looks in reflection to how players move the shot stick. Signature Go-To Post Shots have also been improved to be “more well-rounded and suitable for all archetypes.”
Meanwhile, Green or Miss Shot Timing will be universal inNBA 2K26to ensure each mode offers an even playing field, with shot timing windows scaled by difficulty. It’ll be interesting to see what players think of these adjustments, with previouschanges inNBA 2K25to the shot metersparking criticism. Of course, 2K will likely be keeping a close eye on player reception toNBA 2K26at launch due to its deeper incorporation of machine learning and AI technology.
For those uninterested in jumping intoNBA 2K26at launch,NBA 2K25continues to receive support from 2K, including a June 2025 update that added over 9,000 new animations to its ProPLAY system. For those that do intend to grab a copy ofNBA 2K26on September 5, player movement will almost certainly feel more responsive and lifelike thanks to its more extensive improvements to ProPLAY.
