Shaq On NBA 2K6 Cover

2K Sports, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, announced today that powerhouse Miami Heat center, Shaquille O’Neal will be the cover athlete and official spokesperson for NBA 2K6. The latest installment in the #1 rated NBA 2K series, NBA 2K6 promises fans the most complete and entertaining basketball experience with new offensive and defensive post play elements, developed with direct input from O’Neal.

“Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most dominant, skilled and exciting players in the NBA,” stated Erik Whiteford, vice president of marketing for 2K Sports. “His name is synonymous with basketball and winning. His great passion for the game and drive for excellence has made him a force on the court and a leader on every team he is a part of, including 2K Sports. We’re thrilled to be working with Shaq on NBA 2K6.”

“NBA 2K6 will be the best basketball game on the virtual court, and it’s no secret I like to play with the best – and that’s 2K Sports,” stated Miami Heat Center Shaquille O’Neal.

O’Neal has had an exceptional NBA career, earning countless accolades for his superior talent and contributions to the game of basketball. He has been selected to participate in 12 NBA All-Star Games, is a three-time NBA Finals MVP and a two-time regular season scoring champion. In 1996, O’Neal was also selected as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.

In conjunction with the cover athlete, 2K Sports is proud to announce new additions to post play in NBA 2K6 – with new animations and gameplay inspired and co-created by Shaquille O’Neal. These enhancements offer players a more realistic experience while “in the paint,” featuring authentic NBA-motion captured moves like drop steps, head fakes, skyhooks, and the infamous fade away shot. NBA 2K6 will also feature new post specific moves including steals from post defenders and weak side blocks, adding a new layer to the defensive post game.

NBA 2K6 delivers the most authentic NBA experience as gamers can elevate their level of play by utilizing the innovative V.I.P. System to challenge profiles of friends and other NBA 2K6 gamers across the country. With online play and unrivaled franchise control, NBA 2K6 will be the most comprehensive and feature rich NBA video game released to date.

NBA 2K6 will hit courts in Fall 2005 for Xbox video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.