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10 Things You Need To Know About NBA 2K14

by Julian Sonny

This year's edition of NBA 2K14 promises everything that we've been missing thus far from a basketball simulation in current generation consoles. The best-selling sports series will be pulling out all of the stops this time around, not only because LeBron James is gracing the cover, but because this will be the final chapter for the XBox 360 and Playstation 3.

The Xbox One and Playstation 4 editions are set to be released next year but for those of us who can't wait to get their basketball fix in now, October 1st is the big day. And from what we've seen so far from the game, it's looking like the best to date.

We all know how competitive playing 2K can get, which is why it's important to stay a step ahead of the competition and know what you're getting into before you even purchase the game.

Get a feel of what you can expect and be grateful for another season of basketball. These are the 10 things you need to know about NBA 2K14:

The game reflects real NBA stats

This year's edition of 2K14 will boast one of the most dynamic, up-to-date living rosters on the market. With STATS Inc. providing real data from every real-life NBA game going on, player performance will reflect right back into the game. This includes everything from trades, injuries, line-up changes and, of course, who is hot and who's cold. This year they stepped it up another level by going more in depth. If JR Smith is killing it from behind the arc, then expect his three point rating to see an instant increase. What if Dwight Howard starts hammering those boards again? Then he's going to do it in the game.

There is a new shot-blocking and flashy passing system

There is no reason why Chris Paul should be dunking on Serge Ibaka. It would just never happen. But for some reason, we saw little guys go up in 2K13 and throw down dunks with pretty much no rim protection. This year's all-new blocking improvements look to fix that. You can time your blocks, go in for the swat and finally protect that rim! To counter that, guys like Paul will have new flashy passing ability. Simply pass with the right analog stick while holding down the trigger and your skilled point guard will deliver a stylish dish worthy of a highlight reel.

Over 3,500 new animations have been added to the game

Expect a sh*tload of new dunks, passes, dribbling and crossover animations this time around. That's 3,500, to be exact. This year's edition will be fully refreshed with new moves and physics, not only to freshen up the match ups, but to add more realism.

You can play as Euroleague teams

2K Sports and Euroleague Basketball announced today an exclusive multi-year global partnership that will see top teams from the Turkish Airlines Euroleague introduced into NBA 2K14. Teams will include FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, CSKA Moscow and more.

LeBron handpicked the soundtrack

LeBron chose the entire soundtrack himself. With the help of fans of course. Tracks include Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines," Nas' "Hate Me Now," and Drake's "Started From The Bottom."

You can play as Rick Ross

Rick Ross #NBA2K RT!! pic.twitter.com/tExn8HaGBN — #NBA2K14 (@NBA2KGames) August 27, 2013

There is a mode that lets you control LeBron's future in "Path to Greatness"

Dictate LeBron's future in the all new "Path to Greatness" mode. While details are still unclear, game designer Rob Jones admits that they have built a full interactive story around the superstar and you will get to decide his choices, skills and more. Stay tuned.

LeBron is rated a 99

LeBron will, of course, have the highest rating in the game. Other top players include Kevin Durant (94), Carmelo Anthony (92) and Russell Westbrook (91).

Michael Jordan is back

There will be more classic teams, rivalries and match ups, including Magic Johnson, Allen Iverson, Hakeem Olajuwon and more. Plus Michael Jordan makes his third consecutive appearance with the series with all new classic teams from different years.

Watch full gameplay between the Lakers and Knicks

Bonus: The next gen trailer is too crazy

Top Photo Credit: 2K Sports