New tandem animation technologies are implemented to produce ultra-realistic player interactions. Additionally, motion capture data from professional basketball players delivers smooth gameplay and lifelike player movements.

Expanding upon the best-selling 5-on-5 basketball simulation on PSP, NBA '06 for PSP incorporates all-new game design, animations, and mini-games for gamers to play anytime, anywhere. Supporting up to two players via ad hoc or infrastructure mode, NBA '06 for PSP offers the chance to play any of the 41 authentic NBA teams, including six National Basketball Development League (NBDL) teams. Two new mini-games, HORSE and Dodgeball, allow players to step away from traditional 5-on-5 play and engage in some classic schoolyard battles. A new ladder challenge gives players the opportunity to compete in increasingly difficult mini-games or exhibition play where the goal is to complete the ladder and earn rewards. Additionally, an all-new trading card system provides gamers an opportunity to capture freeze-frame shots of their favorite drives, shots, passes, and dunks as virtual cards to keep and share with others.