Play by Play Studios is gearing up to release its new game, NBA The Run, on June 9th, positioning it as the spiritual successor to the iconic NBA Street series. The game is being developed by Mike Young, the artist who previously contributed to the original series, giving the new project a classic feel infused with a modern vision.
At its core, the game departs from the complex, realistic simulations of games like NBA 2K26, focusing instead on fast-paced, arcade-style 3v3 matches filled with dazzling action. Players will compete in elimination tournaments that take them to various basketball arenas around the world, culminating in grand finals in dedicated arenas that will truly test their skills.
The experience allows users to choose from three main game modes: Knockout Squads for individual team play, Knockout Solos for complete team control, and Knockout Friends for organizing private tournaments. The game’s roster also includes more than 30 real NBA stars, led by Stephen Curry, Luka Doncic, and Kevin Durant.
The project’s roots trace back to 2024 under the title “The Run: Got Next,” before it was officially launched after the developers obtained the necessary licenses from the National Basketball Association (NBA). This move aims to fill a significant gap in the sports arcade game market, with expectations that the game will usher in a new era for this type of digital competition.
The company will release the game for $30 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam, with a premium edition available for $40 that includes exclusive add-ons and unlockable content. It will be officially released to the public in early June.
