On the offensive end, the game can be frustrating as the defense is so good that getting open for an easy shot can prove to be quite a chore at times. For some players, that could be frustrating as they might want a game that is relatively easy to pick up and play. For others, the tougher AI may be welcome as a challenging game when other games tend to be a bit more interested in flashy play rather than realistic results. Picks do not always work, as defenses switch to cover the open ball handler. Shots when covered well by a defender can be difficult to convert. Thankfully, pump fakes do provide a good way to get the defender off his feet to allow for easier shot attempts. Patient game players looking for a challenge will enjoy this game more than those looking for a casual game of basketball with extraordinary plays on every possession.

Audio performance is distinctly average. The announcer in the game can get repetitive at times, to the point of annoyance. The sound effects are good enough, but certainly nothing spectacular. The graphics on the game don’t stand out in any way.

NBA '08 provides a good variety of games and modes to keep the consumer busy for many hours. There are not enough good things that can be said about the Conquest mode. It is a original new game mode that will likely result in copycat game modes on other sports franchises. Continuing improvement will allow this game to become the best NBA portable game on the market.