The first chance for PlayStation players to try NBA The Run arrives this weekend with an open beta kicking off on PS5. Details are light, but the PlayStation Blog post makes one thing clear: the developers are betting hard on how the game feels in your hands.
Beta Access and Timing
The open beta is live now on PS5 and runs through the weekend. No pre-order, sign-up, or code is needed — just head to the PlayStation Store, download the client, and jump in. While an exact end time hasn’t been posted, the window gives players several days to get a feel for the game’s arcade-style basketball action.
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The Feel of the Sticks
The blog post highlights the team’s focus on responsive controls, describing the game as something that “feels like butter on the sticks.” The snippet mentions pulling off a 720 dunk with Ant (likely a reference to Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards), signalling a game that prioritises fluid, high-flying moves over simulation realism. If the beta delivers on that promise, it could carve out a space for NBA The Run among arcade sports fans.
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What You Can Play
While the full mode list isn’t spelled out, the post suggests that the core gameplay loop is on show. Expect to test player movement, shooting, and the trick system that the studio is so proud of. Since the beta is open, matchmaking times should be reasonable, and there’s no barrier to entry if you’re even mildly curious.
GamerHeadlines Takeaway
Running an open beta ahead of launch is a smart move for a new IP, especially one that leans heavily on a “feel-first” design philosophy. PS5 players get an exclusive early look, and the lack of friction to join means the player count could give the servers a healthy stress test. Whether NBA The Run has the depth to keep players around is the bigger question — and this weekend provides the first real answer.
