Which is a good thing, because the "grind" to gain levels can take a while, especially if a player loses a few games. It takes too long to gain levels, and in the build we tried there were a lot of level restrictions placed on new gear. Also, grief players can cause serious problems when they join a game, get done eight points, and then quit, eliminating all the experience the other players would've acquired at that point. The player who quits early receives a hefty penalty in points and experience, but the players he leaves behind get nothing for their time. The system also hurts a player who disconnects accidentally or has connection problems.

FreeStyle's presentation is top-notch. With catchy beats and original songs from Lloyd Banks, along with the authentic sounds of outdoor basketball, the game sounds sweet. The graphics take a stylized cel-shaded approach, and it's a treat to watch the cartoony characters play ball in the colorful environments. It makes the game stand out in a way it would not have if the designers had gone with a more traditional approach. The only problem with the art is that there are not a lot of character appearance customization options to start out with, so there will be a lot of characters that look very similar early on.

All things considered, FreeStyle Street Basketball is a game to keep an eye on. If you're into the sport at all, you can't miss it, as it's a completely new way to play after countless NBA and NCAA basketball games. If you're into RPGs, the setting alone makes this one worth a look. And if you're new to either genre, the simple controls and social nature of the game could make it worth your while. The concept is fresh, the execution is on the right track, and FreeStyle Street Basketball is on its way to being a winner.