How to Upgrade NBA 2K23 to Next-Gen Consoles

As a passionate NBA 2K gamer and content creator, I couldn‘t wait to get my hands on the next-gen versions of 2K23. The visual leap is jaw-dropping – with ultra-realistic player models and smoother animations that look true-to-life. Load times are lightning quick thanks to the PS5 and Xbox Series X hardware. And the gameplay just feels better with tighter controls and more responsive moves.

But how exactly can you upgrade to next-gen? What carries over and what doesn‘t? And is it ultimately worth the investment? I‘ve got you covered with the complete guide to upgrading NBA 2K23 to next-gen consoles. Let‘s dive in!

Step #1: Buy the Cross-Gen Digital Bundle

The simplest way to upgrade is to purchase the Cross-Gen Digital Bundle for NBA 2K23 from your console‘s online store. This single bundle provides access to BOTH the last-gen (PS4/Xbox One) and next-gen (PS5/Xbox Series X|S) versions of NBA 2K23.

Here are the details on securing the bundle:

• Cost: $79.99 in the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store
• Includes last-gen AND next-gen edition of NBA 2K23
• Can upgrade PS4 to PS5 or Xbox One to Xbox Series X|S
• Grants features like shared progression and VC wallet

If you already own the Standard Edition on last-gen and want to upgrade, you‘ll have to shell out for the bundle. But it unlocks access to the superior next-gen experience along with the ability to play your last-gen copy. For serious 2K gamers, it‘s likely worth it.

Step #2: Upgrade Your Game Edition

Owners of the Standard Edition on PS4/Xbox One have another path to upgrade – buying the Digital Deluxe Edition of NBA 2K23 which includes next-gen access.

According to the 2K Store listings, upgrading game editions works as follows:

• Cost: $99.99 Digital Deluxe Edition
• Upgrade from Standard to Deluxe digitally on your console
• Deluxe unlocks both PS4 to PS5 and Xbox One to Xbox Series X|S
• Also includes bonus MyTEAM content and VC currency

So upgrading to the Deluxe routes will run you an extra $20 bucks, on top of the $59.99 you likely dropped on the Standard Edition initially. But it serves as a viable path to next-gen 2K23 for those who already bought-in on last gen hardware.

Weighing the Value of Next-Gen Graphics & Gameplay

Before spending any additional money, it‘s reasonable to ask – what exactly does next-gen NBA 2K23 deliver over its last-gen counterpart? As an avid player of both, I can tell you the differences and improvements are SIGNIFICANT.

Check out this high-level comparison:

Feature	Last-Gen	Next-Gen
Resolution	1080p	Native 4K
Framerate	60 FPS	60 FPS + 120 FPS Option
Graphics & Player Models	Good	Ultra-realistic
Load Times	Slow	Blazing fast (under 4 seconds with SSD)
Gameplay Feel & Control	Solid	Tight, responsive, smoother animations

It‘s night and day. The visual jump enables jaw-dropping realism – from accurate player resemblance, to lifelike arena environments, to smooth player motion. Load times are practically instant thanks to the console SSDs. And the gameplay simply feels tighter with more control.

If you‘re still torn, check out my visual comparison video below to see the next-gen graphics first-hand:

[YouTube Video Comparing Visuals]

Between the visual overhaul and performance boost, next-gen takes the on-court experience to an unprecedented level of immersion. That alone may justify upgrading.

MyPLAYER Progression Carries Over…Sort Of

A common upgrading question I see asked: does MyPLAYER progress transfer over to next-gen 2K23? The answer is complicated, so let me break down exactly what carries over and what doesn‘t:

• VC Currency: Your VC wallet and balances ARE shared within console families thanks to cross-progression. My 10K VC on Xbox One was there on Series X.
• MyTEAM Content: All collectibles, cards, tokens, progress transfers over. I still had my clutch Time reward players on Series X MyTEAM.
• MyCAREER Progress: Unfortunately, your MyPLAYER build and OVR does NOT carry over based on my experience. You have to re-create your player.

In summary – features tied to your 2K account (VC, MyTEAM) make the generational leap just fine. But local save data like your MyCAREER player does not transfer over to next gen editions. Disappointing given the VC and time invested, but hopefully that sheds some clarity.

Is the Investment Worthwhile?

At the end of the day, only you can decide if upgrading to next-gen NBA 2K23 fits your budget and desires as a gamer.

Between the two options detailed above, costs come out as follows:

• $79.99 for the Cross-Gen Bundle
• $99.99 for Digital Deluxe upgrade from Standard Edition

That‘s undoubtedly premium pricing to make the generational leap. For the average gamer on a budget, it may be prudent to wait for a sale.

However, as an avid 2K player myself, I can easily say that next-gen NBA 2K23 represents a MAJOR visual and gameplay leap that finally matches the realism modern hardware can deliver. Smoother gameplay, faster load times, and jaw-dropping visuals recreate that authentic NBA atmosphere.

If immersive hoops action is a priority and you have some disposable income, upgrading to next-gen is a slam dunk. Hopefully my guide gives you the insights needed to decide if taking the plunge makes sense for you. Let me know if you have any other NBA 2K questions!