First retailer deals for NBA Live 18

NBA Live 18 never had a chance in the marketplace to sell even at a reduced $40 pre-order price. No one, including publisher EA Sports, would have expected otherwise. The goal instead was to reestablish some credibility, get a few people on board with the series over the next year through various means (demo, EA Access, price drops, possible stumbles by competition) and hopefully see the signs of progress with the release of an NBA Live 19.

It remains to be seen whether Live 18 will be the long-awaited turning point for the series but we’re now onto the phase where retailers are lowering the price due to lack of demand. Best Buy has the game for $30 but even better is the $24 for Gamers Club members and Gamestop is also selling it for $30. Amazon, which generally follows the lead of other retailers, has yet to come off the $60 which is never going to move any copies – though a third party currently has some up for $40 plus shipping. (Update) Amazon now has the PS4 version for $30.

Those with interest that decide to wait it out a little longer will have good opportunities in the future with NBA Live 18 likely to be $20 or less for Black Friday and its entry into the EA Access Vault on Xbox One to look forward to in the front half of next year.