NBA in the Zone '99

NBA In The Zone '99 (known in Europe as NBA Pro 99) is a basketball simulation game developed by Konami Computer Entertainment Osaka and published by Konami, the fourth installment in the series. The game features official NBA licensing with all 29 teams and over 300 real players. Game modes include Exhibition, Season, Playoffs, All-Star Game, plus two new additions: a Three-Point Shootout and a Slam Dunk Competition. The three-point contest requires timing a moving power bar, while the dunk contest demands memorizing button sequences. A create-a-player mode is included.

PlayStation

Released on March 31, 1999, this version was considered superior to its Nintendo 64 counterpart. The PlayStation port includes the Slam Dunk Competition—entirely absent from the N64 version—and smoother controls with improved motion-captured animations. However, critics delivered harsh verdicts on the AI, which was described as suitable for a hoops-themed sequel of Dumb and Dumber. Human players could easily exploit flaws like poor fast break defense, turning games into offensive clinics that got tired quickly. The sound was noted for its subtle PA-style approach, avoiding repetitive commentary. One reviewer lamented that a series once considered the pinnacle of NBA hoops games had become a mere shadow of its one-time glory. The consensus declared the PlayStation version more playable than the N64 port, but the fundamental AI problems made it difficult to recommend over smarter competitors.