Overview and Gameplay
Michael Jordan and Larry Bird meet on a half-court in a basketball contest built around their contrasting strengths. Jordan excels near the basket and performs elaborate dunks, while Bird is the stronger outside shooter. This NES conversion of the 1988 computer game includes full four-period matches, games to 11 or 15 points, practice modes, a Slam Dunk Contest, Follow the Leader, and a timed 3-Point Contest.
One-on-one games use a 24-second shot clock, clearing rules after defensive possession changes, optional fouls, adjustable period lengths, and four difficulty settings. There is no season or story progression; each match or contest is a separate event.
Controls And Mechanics
- Use the directional pad to move, shuffle, approach the basket, and select dunks.
- Hold and release A to shoot. On defense, A makes the player jump for a possible block.
- B supports faster lateral movement and attempts steals when facing the ball carrier.
- The dunk contest requires choosing a dunk, approaching correctly, and releasing A at the takeoff point.
- In the 3-Point Contest, A collects each ball and B shoots it.
- Two players can compete simultaneously in one-on-one matches. Dunk and three-point contests also support alternating turns.
Release And Credits
- NES release: 1989
- Developer: Rare Limited
- Publisher: Milton Bradley
- Original platform: Computers, released in 1988
