We did it. After voting our way through a meticulously crafted tournament with 64 of the best sports video games ever, we’re left with just two — NBA 2K12 and Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2. These games have toppled some serious heavy-hitters like NFL 2K5, WWF No Mercy, and Wii Sports to stand alone as the two best, but there can only be one.
It is your duty as a reader and voter to use your reading and voting powers to make the most important decision you’ve possibly ever made in your life to determine hat is the best sports video game.
Choose wisely.
NBA 2K12
Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird graced the cover of NBA 2K12, one of the truest love letters to a sport in digital form. It bridged the gap to the next generation with a painstaking attention to detail and endless ways to play.
2K12 defeated MLB The Show ’16 in the previous round to make it to the Finals and came from behind in the voting to topple EA Sports NCAA Football ’07 in the Elite 8. Strong competition.
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2
Improving on the first Tony Hawk Pro Skater in every way, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2 was more of everything — more control (manuals) more hidden secrets, a bigger and better soundtrack, and one of the most addictive combo-chaining mechanics in gaming. The game would refine itself and add much-needed features in later years, but Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2 will always be loved forever. The level design is perfection.
Tony defeated the surging and last remaining golf game, Links 386 Pro, then knocked off fan favorite Wii Sports in the Final Four. While 2K12 has had some close moments in voting, Tony Hawk Pro Skater 2 has consistently blown its competition out of the water.
