Among the other improvements offered in 2k8, are lock-on defense which allows you to stay in a, “defensive stance against an offensive player.” There’s also a new movement model that makes for smoother transitions between different animations, which should lend the game a more authentic look. Expect better control over players away from the ball, and like NBA 2k8, you can now have plays appear literally drawn onto the court to assist you in running them effectively. (This is optional, of course.)

During the call Timmerman was asked how much collaboration went on between the two development teams. He noted that most of that collaboration happens at the beginning of the development cycle as the two teams compare notes and features, with each borrowing ideas and features form the other, such as the lock-on D and on-the-fly playcalling.

While the atmosphere in College Hoops has never been bad, there’s little doubt that there’s room to take it to another level. During the call Timmerman went into a fair bit of detail regarding all the “tedious” work that’s gone into modeling the various arenas in the game, which includes working hand-in-hand with a lot of universities to improve the accuracy of the home gym for a lot of teams. With improvements to the courts, completely redone crowd graphics and the emphasis on the crowd’s role in 6th Man, 2k Sports is hoping gamers will find even more to love about the atmosphere in College Hoops 2k8.

Making an annual $60 investment is a tall-order for every sports game franchise. Just look at the drop-off in Madden’s sales this year if you don’t believe that. Despite the short development cycle, if 2k Sports can deliver on the many new features and updates promised for College Hoops 2k8, fans’ continuing investment in this series will be more than warranted.