The new features, playable areas, and game mechanics in NBA 2k22 give players a variety of enjoyable gameplay options. There are a few differences between the next-gen console and current-gen versions of the game, the biggest being the inclusion of the City on newer systems. Players on older gaming systems will be in the Neighborhood and aboard the Cancha Del Mar Cruise Ship instead of roaming around the City.
The City is a large playable area that players can leisurely explore. This new area has many opportunities for players to interact with NPCs, complete side quests, and even upgrade to a penthouse overlooking the City. With the arrival of a large, open-world area like the City, there comes the need for unlocking spawn points. Doing so will allow for easier navigation and quicker activity completion.
Players can use spawn points to begin their gameplay in a specific area of the City. The ability to unlock them will start when the side quest Unlock Spawn Point becomes available. There are a total of 7 spawn points for players to choose from. All of the spawn points are unlocked at the same time when the side quest is completed. Players must run a set distance through the City in order to finish the quest. Setting the spawn point can be done from the City map by selecting the desired spawn area and confirming it.
Unlocking Spawn Points in NBA 2K22
The Unlock Spawn Points side quest is given by ATM, an NPC in the City, and requires players to run 26.2 miles. This must be done on foot, so using the BMX, skateboard, and rollerblades will not count towards the total distance traveled. The player also has to be running, not walking. Tracking the quest will show a progress indicator on the left side of the screen, so players can constantly see how far they've run.
The total distance is tracked over time and doesn't need to be completed all at once. Players should also be aware that running in place won't count, so continuously running won't work if there is an obstacle in the character's way. Once players reach the 26.2 miles and complete the quest, all of the spawn points will automatically unlock. A spawn point can be set on the map to one of 7 locations:
- Shopping District
- Apartment
- Rec
- Team Practice Facility
- Gatorade Gym
- Fashion Runway
- Pro Am
Setting the spawn point will change the location the character starts at each time players return to the City. This can be helpful if there is a specific area of the City that players need to come back to. Completing the Unlock Spawn Points quest will also award players 1,000 MVP points. Collecting these points will eventually lead to unlocking the penthouse through the MVP of the City quest. NBA 2K22 offers a variety of features and opportunities in the City for next-gen players.
NBA 2K22 is available for PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, and PC.