NBA 2K21: How the New Shot Meter Works

The NBA 2K shot stick and shot meter undergo changes pretty regularly from year to year. This time, they’ve both been altered in major ways, as seen in the recent gameplay trailer. If it’s still a bit confusing, we’re here to help. Here’s how the new shot meter works in NBA 2K21.

A detailed report was released not too long ago that spoke of the various gameplay changes coming this year. The new look and function of the shot meter is arguable the biggest gameplay change in NBA 2K21.

How the New Shot Meter Works in NBA 2K21

How to Shoot

Instead of being able to shoot by pushing the shot stick in any direction, players can now only take shots by pushing the stick directly downwards or using the shoot button. Otherwise, a dribble move will happen instead.

Using a Button

The image above shows the shot meter’s new look. Instead of simply filling up an empty meter every time you shoot, you’ll now have to time your release for wherever the light grey section of the meter appears on each shot.

This is specifically for when you use the shoot button and not the shot stick. The shoot button turns shots into a timing mini-game game, so you’ll need to pay close attention whenever you put up a shot.

Using the Stick

On the other hand, the shot stick turns shots into a bit of a precision challenge. You don’t need to time anything at all when using the stick. You don’t even need to release it.

When using the shot stick to shoot, you simply have to pull it straight down, then keep the yellow line in the middle of the grey area on the shot meter. The closer to the middle it is, the better the shot.

That’s everything you need to know about how the new shot meter works in NBA 2K21. If you’re looking to find the best build to shoot with, check out ours here.

You can also pre-order the game now if the demo did enough to get you excited for the Sept. 4 launch.