We are well accustomed to new NBA-branded games arriving each year, not least the annual NBA 2K series. But the NBA also puts its branding on other games, including the well-received NBA The Run, which was released around the NBA Finals in June.
Over at the casino, you can also find a new branded title, NBA Slam Dunk Roulette. Technically, it’s called DraftKings Slam Dunk Roulette, as it is exclusive to DraftKings. You can see for yourself here https://casino.draftkings.com/category/roulette/. But does it hit or miss the basket?
The game’s graphics and immersive features stand out
The first thing to note is that this is an officially branded game, licensed to use the NBA logos and imagery of the NBA and all 30 of its teams. Indeed, that’s an important part of the attraction, because you can customize the game to play on branded tables with your favorite team. So, if you are a Knicks nut or Lakers legend, you simply choose your team, and play.
Indeed, one thing that we love about this is game is that you play within your respective divisions. For example, if you choose the Lakers as your team, the game is laid out with the other teams in the Pacific Division – Warriors, Clippers, Suns, Kings as your de facto opponents. The 3D camera angles are brilliant, so there is real immersion in the game. Moreover, the results play out on a large sports-arena scoreboard. The attention to detail is impressive.
The game adheres to traditional American roulette rules
The second thing to mention is that the game is more or less consistent with traditional roulette games. So, the developers have not really gone overboard with additional game features or elaborate side bets. Roulette can be complex, of course, and players can employ all kinds of strategies honed over the years and decades, but the main elements of the gameplay are broadly the same as you would find in a ‘real’ roulette game in a land-based casino resort.
Available for small or big stakes
Another aspect we like is that the game can be played for micro stakes or large wagers as designed. Indeed, you can actually play it in demo mode on the DraftKings Casino platform should you not want to risk real money. Nonetheless, the ability to play for a few cents per round is a good option to have. High rollers can bet much larger amounts.
Overall, we would say this is a case of making roulette more interesting while not messing too much with the formula – or payout structures – that make roulette popular in the first place. You can appreciate how it will attract NBA fans to the gaming tables where all you need is an internet connection, while there is nothing to worry about for casino players who enjoy the classics. All in all, we would say this looks like it will be a big hit, adding a bit of extra sport-themed drama and theater to a classic table game.
