NBA 2K7 is a basketball simulation video game developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Sports. It is the eighth installment in the NBA 2K franchise and the successor to NBA 2K6. It was released in September 2006 for Xbox, Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation 3. Shaquille O'Neal is the cover athlete of the game. NBA 2K7 is the predecessor to NBA 2K8 in the NBA 2K series. The game strives to simulate the experience of the National Basketball Association and attempts to be as realistic as possible. Players play NBA basketball games with real life teams in a variety of game modes. Players may customize the gameplay, as well as the players, and can take control of an NBA team as the general manager, hiring coaches, and making a profit. The game features all the main aspects found in the NBA, such as commentary, realistic crowd animations, and halftime shows. The game's overall gameplay, as well as the aesthetics, was said to have been significantly improved before release. NBA 2K7 received a positive reception upon release. A lot of praise was directed at the game's overall presentation; some critics called the visuals "gorgeous", while others said it was "spectacular" and achieved great "visual feats". Most other praise was directed at the game's improved gameplay, as well as the depth and wealth of content. Some negative comments were made concerning the models and animations of the players.