Why is it Called 2K Games?
The name “2K Games” directly originates from the 2K series of sports games, particularly the NBA 2K franchise. This seemingly simple moniker encapsulates the core of the company’s identity. The ‘2K’ initially referred to the year 2000, tying back to the initial release of the series. The company, initially a label for publishing and sports games, was formed around the very series that gave it its name and remains their flagship product, and became an easily recognizable brand that would expand to other gaming genres. Essentially, the name signifies the legacy and continued evolution of the 2K Sports line of games.
The Origins of 2K and the 2K Series
The Dreamcast Connection
The story of 2K Games begins with Visual Concepts, a developer known for creating high-quality sports simulations. Their sports game lineup, frequently referred to as the 2K series, first gained significant attention when published exclusively for the Dreamcast console. This early success established the foundation of the franchise, and its strong reputation. It is essential to understand this historical background to see why 2K Games came into being.
From Sega to 2K Sports
Initially, these 2K series games, including the very first NBA 2K in 1999, were published by Sega. However, in 2005, Take-Two Interactive acquired Visual Concepts from Sega, including the studio’s Kush Games subsidiary and the intellectual property of the 2K series. This acquisition marked the creation of 2K, first as a sub-label named 2K Sports, and eventually the entire label 2K Games. Beginning with NBA 2K6 in 2005, the series transitioned to the newly formed 2K label, which would grow into one of the biggest names in sports and gaming.
The Evolution Beyond Sports
While 2K’s roots are firmly planted in sports simulations, primarily through the NBA 2K franchise, the company has expanded significantly. They are now a major publisher of a diverse catalog, extending to different genres with titles such as Borderlands, XCOM, and Mafia, while retaining the 2K brand name. The evolution of 2K Games shows that the name which started as a series marker for sports simulation has now come to represent a very large, diverse, and very successful gaming company.
FAQs About 2K Games
1. What was the first game in the 2K series?
The first game in the 2K series was NBA 2K, released in 1999 for the Dreamcast console. It was developed by Visual Concepts and published by Sega Sports before 2K existed. The cover athlete for the initial release was Allen Iverson.
2. When did 2K become a publisher of the NBA 2K series?
2K Games began publishing the NBA 2K series in 2005 with the release of NBA 2K6. Prior to that, the series was published by Sega. This marked a pivotal point for the franchise.
3. What is 2K Games best known for?
2K Games is predominantly known for its sports simulation titles, most notably the NBA 2K franchise. However, they also publish games in various other genres, including Borderlands, XCOM, and Mafia, all under the 2K umbrella.
4. What does the “2K” in 2K Games mean?
The 2K is a reference to the year 2000, when the original games in the series were launched for the Dreamcast. The initial “2K” was part of the naming trend at the time and became associated with the company, even when the 2K Sports label was established.
5. Who owns 2K Games?
2K Games is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. They operate as a publishing label under this parent company.
6. Did Jay-Z have a role in any NBA 2K game?
Yes, rapper Jay-Z was the executive producer for NBA 2K13. He not only curated the game’s soundtrack but also had a significant role in the overall design of the game.
7. Who is the most featured player on the NBA 2K covers?
Kobe Bryant leads the way with the most appearances on NBA 2K covers, having been featured on six different editions: NBA 2K10, NBA 2K17, two editions of NBA 2K21, and NBA 2K24.
8. Has LeBron James ever received a 99 rating in NBA 2K?
Yes, LeBron James is one of only five players to have ever received a 99 overall rating in the game, while still actively playing. The other players are Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, and Kevin Garnett.
9. How many different NBA 2K titles have been released?
As of 2022, the NBA 2K series consists of twenty-four main installments and several spin-off titles across eighteen different platforms. The series has grown exponentially since its inception.
10. Has Shaquille O’Neal ever received a 100 rating in NBA 2K?
Yes, Shaquille O’Neal is the only player in NBA 2K history to have achieved a perfect score of 100, which he received in NBA 2K2. This makes the achievement a unique milestone in the game’s history.
11. What happened to NBA 2K21 servers?
The servers for NBA 2K21 were discontinued on December 31, 2022. This is a standard practice for older games in the series in order to dedicate resources towards the newest titles.
12. What does “Y2K” stand for, and does it have anything to do with 2K Games?
The term “Y2K” is an abbreviation for the Year 2000 software problem. The “2K” in 2K Games is indeed derived from this abbreviation, directly referencing the year 2000.
13. Does 2K also own Rockstar Games?
2K Games and Rockstar Games are both owned by Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. They both operate as major publishing labels under this parent company.
14. Who was the first cover athlete for NBA 2K?
The first cover athlete for NBA 2K was Allen Iverson of the Philadelphia 76ers. He appeared on the cover of the first five editions of the game.
15. What was the original motivation for the creation of the NBA?
The NBA was founded in June 1946 in New York City when Walter Brown, owner of the Boston Garden, decided that major hockey arenas, which were mostly empty on many nights, could be used to host basketball games. This became the very beginning of what we now know as the NBA.
Conclusion
The name “2K Games” holds a significant history rooted in the 2K series of sports games. Initially referencing the year 2000, it became the brand for the company’s growing library of titles, expanding its reach far beyond just sports. From its origins with Sega, and then its acquisition by Take-Two Interactive, to the establishment of the 2K label, the name has come to stand for a very large and very successful gaming empire that remains at the forefront of the gaming industry.