The latest installment in the long-running basketball simulation series reveals its cover stars and edition tiers, giving players clear choices before launch. Buyers now know which athlete represents their preferred version of the game, and how early they can start playing based on their budget. The Standard Edition arrives on September 4, while the Deluxe Edition unlocks access six days earlier for those willing to pay more.
Victor Wembanyama, Caitlin Clark, and Derrick Rose headline three distinct editions
2K Sports has assigned Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs to the Standard Edition cover. Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever appears on the Deluxe Edition, marking the first time a WNBA player has held a global cover spot. Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls is the face of the Ultra Edition, which is available for purchase only until September 6.
- Standard Edition Price: $69.99 / £59.99
- Deluxe Edition Price: $99.99 / £89.99
- Ultra Edition Price: $149.99 / £129.99
- Standard Edition Release Date: September 4
- Deluxe Edition Early Access: August 28
The game launches on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and PC. Pricing for the Standard Edition sits at $69.99 in the US and £59.99 in the UK. The Deluxe Edition costs $99.99 or £89.99, while the Ultra Edition is priced at $149.99 or £129.99. These figures reflect the tiered access model that defines the release strategy.
Wembanyama described the game as a court that never locks up, emphasizing its role for studying basketball and sharpening IQ. He noted that being the face of a game that immortalizes all-time greats is a dream come true. Clark highlighted the significance of women's basketball appearing on that global stage, expressing pride in being the first WNBA player to achieve this.
The release window spans from the Deluxe early access on August 28 to the global launch on September 4. The Ultra Edition remains available for purchase only until September 6, after which it may become unavailable. Players can choose their preferred platform and edition based on their interest in the featured athletes.
Source: VideoGameChronicles
