Acclaim reveals Super Basketball Classics, coming soon

Acclaim is taking full court action back to the 8bit era, for Super Basketball Classics, starring none other than the Harlem Globetrotters.

Basketball goes back

“As we celebrate our centennial season the links that tie our vibrant past to popular culture of today continues to get stronger, and this partnership with Acclaim, literally brings this video game back to life for a new generation!” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “It fits perfectly for what we are striving to achieve now and into the future, which is to create opportunities for fans of any age, anywhere in the world and on any device to learn and enjoy all aspects of the Harlem Globetrotters in whatever manner they choose. We can’t wait to play!”

Acclaim press release

Yes, that’s the Harlem Globetrotters in that trailer you just watched. The stylish and acrobatic b-ball team from the Big Apple is celebrating its 100th year, and will indeed be starring in a new basketball video game to mark the occasion. It’s one that you might not have expected too. After all, how often is it that we see retro sports titles?

As far as we know, not often, but 8bit (with just a touch of 16bit) action is just what Super Basketball Classics will be serving up. From Acclaim and developer Namo Gamo, the title will serve up gameplay that looks like it might have been right at home back in the early 90s.

With an arcade-y feel to it, the title will allow for a full selection of modes. Players will be able to engage in exhibition, season, and tourney play, plus both versus and co-op. That’s not all though, as the game will also cast a spotlight on that Globetrotters magic. According to Acclaim, fans can expect something called the Signature Trick Shot System to be included in gameplay.

What’s that? Well, it translates to “alley-oops, half-court bombs, outrageous dunks, and over-the-top moves straight out of a Globetrotters performance.” At least, that’s according to Acclaim. And while we don’t have footage just yet of the game in action, you can check out some sneak peek screens below.

“The Harlem Globetrotters are synonymous with basketball and entertainment,” said Alex Josef, CEO of Acclaim. “This game celebrates that spirit while honoring the classic arcade basketball experiences fans grew up loving while building a whole new generation of fans, for years to come. With tight controls, big personalities and instant pick-up & play action, Super Basketball Classics brings the Harlem Globetrotters legacy to gamers and sports fans around the world.”

Acclaim press release

Look for Super Basketball Classics to hit the PC (via Steam) and consoles some time soon. There’s no firm release date just yet, but this being the Globetrotters’ 100th year, we’d say to expect the game some time soon(ish).