'NBA 2KVR' release date, gameplay, news: devs release standalone VR mini-game

Developer Visual Concepts and publisher 2K surprised fans of the "NBA 2K" franchise with the release of a standalone virtual reality (VR) game called "NBA 2KVR" that contains several mini games and challenges.

This week, the "NBA 2KVR" was made available for players of the basketball simulation game. It is important to note, though, that it is not a VR version of the main game but a standalone title that only contains mini-games.

The official description of the game reads, "'NBA 2KVR' Experience gives you the thrill of walking right onto the court, with All-Star Paul George providing guidance and tips. Compete in a series of fun and intuitive virtual reality basketball mini-games with numerous Gatorade boosts available to improve your performance."

As can be seen in its official teaser video, there are at least four game modes included in the standalone VR game. First, is a three-point shooting challenge in which players will need to make at least 25 three-point shots within a minute. Skills Challenge will require players to activate targets to keep the ball going.

The Time Attack mini-game mode will bring out the scoring machine in every "NBA 2KVR" as they will be tasked to score as many shots as they can while in the virtual Indiana Pacers home court in under 60 seconds. Lastly, in the Buzzer Beater mode, players will need to catch the ball and make a score before the time runs out no matter where they are on the court.

In a press release statement, "NBA 2K17" cover star Paul George said, "As a lifelong fan of NBA 2K, it's exciting to see them take the leap into VR, and even more exciting that it'll be on my home court. I can't wait for fans to dominate on the virtual court with virtual help from Gatorade."

"NBA 2KVR" is now available for HTC Vive, PlayStation VR and Samsung Gear VR for $15.