NBA Jam
In short: NBA Jam is a sports game released in 1993 by Midway, available on Arcade, SNES and Sega Genesis. Our score: 9.0/10 (highly recommended).
NBA Jam is a basketball arcade game developed and published by Midway. It is the first entry in
NBA Jam is a classic arcade basketball game released in 1993 by Midway. It revolutionized sports video games with its exaggerated, over-the-top 2-on-2 gameplay, iconic announcer, and memorable catchphrases. Players could perform gravity-defying dunks, push opponents, and even ignite the ball on fire after scoring three consecutive baskets, leading to the famous "He's on fire!" commentary. The game's appeal lies in its fast-paced, accessible action that prioritizes fun over realism. It features digitized versions of NBA players from the 1993-94 season, allowing fans to play with their favorite stars in a caricatured style. The simple controls and immediate gratification made it a hit in arcades, and its successful ports to home consoles like the SNES and Sega Genesis brought the excitement to a wider audience. Beyond its initial success, NBA Jam has had a lasting cultural impact. Its unique blend of humor, arcade-style gameplay, and authentic NBA licensing created a formula that many subsequent sports games attempted to emulate. The iconic voice of Tim Kitzrow, with his energetic and often humorous commentary, remains synonymous with the game and is still quoted by fans today, cementing its status as a beloved classic in video game history.
Game details
- Developer: Midway
- Publisher: Midway
- Release year: 1993
- Platforms: Arcade, SNES, Sega Genesis
- Category: sports
Our review
NBA Jam remains a timeless classic that perfectly captures the excitement and exaggerated flair of arcade basketball. Its 2-on-2 gameplay is incredibly addictive, offering quick, exhilarating matches that are easy to pick up but hard to put down. The iconic commentator, over-the-top dunks, and the unforgettable 'He's on fire!' mechanic create an unparalleled sense of fun and spectacle. While the graphics are dated by modern standards, they retain a charming retro appeal. The lack of a deep story or career mode is understandable given its arcade origins, but the sheer joy of playing with friends keeps it endlessly replayable. NBA Jam is a must-play for anyone who appreciates arcade sports or just wants to experience pure, unadulterated gaming fun.
Pros
- Addictive 2-on-2 gameplay
- Iconic commentary and catchphrases
- Over-the-top, fun mechanics (on fire, dunks)
- Great multiplayer experience
- Easy to learn, hard to master
Cons
- Graphics are dated
- Limited game modes
- Can feel repetitive over long sessions
FAQ
- What platforms was NBA Jam originally released on?
- NBA Jam was originally released in arcades and later ported to home consoles like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Sega Genesis.
- Who is the announcer in NBA Jam?
- The iconic announcer for NBA Jam is Tim Kitzrow, known for his memorable catchphrases like 'He's on fire!' and 'Boomshakalaka!'
- Can I play NBA Jam in multiplayer?
- Yes, NBA Jam is best known for its excellent 2-player local multiplayer, allowing you to team up or compete against a friend.
- Are there any hidden characters in NBA Jam?
- Yes, many versions of NBA Jam feature a variety of hidden characters, including developers, mascots, and even some politicians, often unlockable with specific button inputs.
- What does 'He's on fire!' mean?
- When a player scores three consecutive baskets without the opponent scoring, they become 'on fire!'. This grants them unlimited turbo, enhanced shooting accuracy, and more powerful dunks until the opponent scores.
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Last updated: 01/04/2026