While owning an NBA Franchise such as the Lakers or Knicks is an impossible dream for most, any fan with a console and a controller can purchase an NBA franchise of a different kind -- the video game series. This season, three new simulation NBA titles debuted. Here's a look at what they brought to the citizens of Player Nation:

NBA Live 08, EA Sports | Released Oct. 2 | Order Now!

When the game is on the line and the ball is in your hands, what will you do? Will you penetrate, drive the lane and rise above the rim for a monster dunk, or find an opening on the perimeter and sink a game-winning three? Take control of the game with a full arsenal to win the one-on-one match-up from every spot on the floor with NBA LIVE 08. Taking a page out of NBA STREET Homecourt’s book, NBA LIVE 08 introduces Quickstrike Ballhandling. This intuitive gameplay mechanic is mapped to the right analog stick and gives you the direct responsiveness you need to perform a full repertoire of ankle-breaking ball-handling moves that let you dominate on the perimeter. Screens, Videos and Info

NBA 2K8, 2K Sports | Released Oct. 2 | Order Now!

Live from Las Vegas, 2K is bringing you the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest, hosted by street legend Bobbito Garcia. Choose from hundreds of dunks and a vast array of props as you compete against the NBA's finest dunkers in this 4 player event. Customizable Free Throws, Dribble Moves, and Dunks give users total control over the way their favorite players play on the court. All new signature shots from many of your favorite NBA players, as well as individual post and dribble moves, gives NBA 2K8 unprecedented realism. Every NBA player has been completely redone to improve likenesses and overall graphical quality. Kevin Harlan and Kenny Smith now deliver emotionally charged commentary and the new Game Wrap-Up feature allows you to choose the kind of post game show you watch. Screens, Videos and Info

NBA 08, Sony Computer Entertainment America | Released Oct. 2 | Order Now!

This year, NBA 08 continues to improve on this next-gen hoops formula by further pushing the graphical envelope as well as adding a host of new features and innovative gameplay functionality. To complement the fast-paced basketball action, NBA 08 introduces an all-new progression system where players earn skill and experience rewards that can be used to thoroughly customize player appearance and play styles. With an upgraded control system that utilizes broader SIXAXIS functionality, gamers can engage in all-new and comprehensive gameplay movement on and off the ball. Also for this year, character models are updated with new animations, more dynamic movement, and new skin textures to provide a higher, more detailed level of realism. Screens, Videos and Info