NBA 2K25 Early Access: Preload Is Now Available

As the NBA 2K franchise gears up for another exciting year, NBA 2K25's early access release is just around the corner. This year marks a significant shift for the series, as NBA 2K25 introduces early access for the first time, allowing fans to jump into the action ahead of the official launch. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the franchise or a newcomer eager to experience the latest in basketball simulation, here's everything you need to know to be ready for tip-off.

Early Access Details

For years, NBA 2K has stood out as one of the few major sports franchises that resisted the trend of offering early access as a deluxe edition perk. However, NBA 2K25 is changing that tradition. For the first time, players who pre-order the game, regardless of the edition, will gain access to the Early Tip-Off, allowing them to start playing before the official release.

The timing of early access varies depending on your platform and region. Here’s when you can start playing NBA 2K25:

On Xbox and PlayStation:

• New Zealand (NZST): Midnight on September 5, 2024
• Australia (AEST): 10pm on September 4, 2024
• Japan (JST): 9pm on September 4, 2024
• Singapore (SGT): 8pm on September 4, 2024
• United Kingdom (BST): 1pm on September 4, 2024
• United States (EDT): 8am on September 4, 2024
• United States (PDT): 5am on September 4, 2024

On PC via Steam:

• New Zealand (NZST): 4pm on September 4, 2024
• Australia (AEST): 2pm on September 4, 2024
• Japan (JST): 1pm on September 4, 2024
• Singapore (SGT): Noon on September 4, 2024
• United Kingdom (BST): 5am on September 4, 2024
• United States (EDT): Midnight on September 4, 2024
• United States (PDT): 9pm on September 3, 2024

Pre-Order Bonuses and Full Release Timing

While the Early Tip-Off grants full access to the game, any pre-order bonus content won't be delivered until the official release. Players have until September 5, 2024, to pre-order and take advantage of these bonuses. The worldwide release for NBA 2K25 is scheduled as follows:

On Xbox and PlayStation:

• New Zealand (NZST): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• Australia (AEST): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• Japan (JST): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• Singapore (SGT): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• United Kingdom (BST): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• United States (EDT): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• United States (PDT): 9pm on September 5, 2024

On PC via Steam:

• New Zealand (NZST): 4pm on September 6, 2024
• Australia (AEST): 2pm on September 6, 2024
• Japan (JST): 1pm on September 6, 2024
• Singapore (SGT): Noon on September 6, 2024
• United Kingdom (BST): 5am on September 6, 2024
• United States (EDT): Midnight on September 6, 2024
• United States (PDT): 9pm on September 5, 2024

Pre-Download and Storage Requirements

To ensure a smooth start, players are encouraged to pre-download NBA 2K25 ahead of the launch. Pre-downloads for PlayStation should be available starting September 3, 2024, with similar timing expected for Steam users. Xbox players might need to keep an eye out, as the full download might not be available immediately despite being able to download a portion of the game early.

Given the game's massive file size, pre-downloading is highly recommended. NBA 2K25 is expected to require at least 150 GB of space on your console or PC, continuing the trend of large download sizes that have become typical for the series.

Final Thoughts

With NBA 2K25 poised to deliver another year of top-tier basketball simulation, getting in early has never been easier. Whether you're looking to dominate the courts from day one or simply can't wait to explore the new features, make sure you're prepared for the Early Tip-Off and the full launch. Don’t forget to secure your pre-order and start downloading as soon as possible to make the most of your early access experience.