NBA The Run launches June 9 as arcade basketball revival from Play by Play Studios
Developed by Play by Play Studios, the game features a roster of over 30 real players and a global knockout tournament, marking a shift away from simulation depth toward fast-paced 3v3 action.
NBA The Run is set to launch globally on June 9, offering a distinct alternative to the simulation-heavy approach of modern sports titles. Developed by Play by Play Studios, the game positions itself as a spiritual successor to the beloved NBA Street and NBA Jam series, prioritising style and arcade gameplay over the detailed mechanics found in franchises like NBA 2K26. This focus aims to fill a significant gap in the market for new arcade sports games that carry official sanctioning from both the National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Players Association.
The title features a roster comprising over 30 real NBA players, including high-profile names such as Steph Curry, Luka Dončić, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid. Players can choose to control these licensed athletes or opt for fictional characters within the game's framework. The core experience revolves around smaller, 3v3 matches rather than traditional five-on-five court battles, delivering a more over-the-top and fast-paced action style that appeals to fans of the original arcade era.
Development of the project was overseen by Mike Young, an artist who contributed to the original NBA Street series, according to a report from Game Informer. The game's structure includes a global knockout tournament spanning four rounds, taking place on courts located around the world. The journey culminates in a boss battle set within one of four specially designated final courts, adding a unique narrative element to the competitive structure.
NBA The Run offers three primary modes designed to cater to different play styles. Knockout Squads allows a single player to control one member of a three-person team, while Knockout Solos lets the player act as the entire team. Additionally, the Knockout Friends mode enables users to create custom private tournaments for local or online play with friends. This variety ensures flexibility whether players are engaging in quick matches or organising larger events.
Pricing for the launch is set at $30 for the standard edition, which will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam. A Deluxe Edition is also offered for $40, providing access to three additional unlockable players and specific in-game currency. The project traces its origins back to 2024, when it was known as The Run: Got Next, before being retooled following the acquisition of the official NBA licence by Play by Play Studios.
While sports games remain as popular as ever, the industry has seen a relative lack of new arcade titles officially sanctioned by the league. NBA The Run aims to address this underserved segment, potentially marking the beginning of a renaissance for arcade-style basketball games. By combining official licensing with the nostalgic feel of classic arcade sports, the title seeks to attract both long-time fans of the genre and new players looking for a different kind of basketball experience.
