Basketball Stars: Multiplayer

Basketball Stars is a multiplayer sports game from Miniclip in which you play quick one-on-one basketball matches. The controls are very simple. You swipe or tap to shoot, and the timing of your release decides whether the ball goes in. There are also moves to dribble, block and steal, which keep the matches active. Each game is short, so it works well for brief breaks. The cartoon-like graphics and bright courts give the game a friendly feel.

How matches are played
You face a human opponent in a real-time match with a limited time. Each player tries to score more points than the other before the clock ends. You can take shots from different distances, with longer shots worth more points. Defence matters too. You can steal the ball by swiping at the right moment, and you can jump to block a shot. Success depends on reading your opponent’s movement as well as on shooting accuracy. Matches against opponents of similar skill are usually fairly balanced.

Customisation and progression
You can customise your player with different looks and gear, and you can improve your stats as you progress. Winning matches earns coins and rewards, which you can use for upgrades or cosmetics. A ranking system places you in leagues that match you with others of similar level, and events and tournaments offer extra goals. You may also join a club and play with friends, depending on the current version.

Tips for better play
Practise your shot timing in training or low-stakes matches. Watch the shooting meter and aim to release when it reaches the best moment. Do not shoot when you are closely defended, since a contested shot is less likely to go in. Try to steal the ball when your opponent is moving, not when they are standing still. Use short, controlled moves to keep the ball safe. Learn which distance suits you best, and aim to score from there. If you are losing, stay calm and focus on defence for a moment.

Internet, ads and purchases
The game needs an online connection for most modes. It is free to download and supported by advertising, and there are optional purchases for coins and items. Spending is not required to play, but it can make progress faster. Check your spending settings on the device if a child is playing, and review the safety and chat options.

Age suitability
There is no violence and the competition is friendly. As with any online game, you may meet players of different ages, so talk with children about good behaviour and about not sharing personal information.

Who it suits
It suits sports fans and casual players who like short competitive matches and simple controls. It is also good for people who want to play against friends. Those who prefer deep simulation of real basketball or single-player careers may find it limited.

How it compares
Compared with EA SPORTS FC Mobile and Dream League Soccer, it is simpler and has no team-building focus. Compared with 8 Ball Pool, it requires timing and reflexes rather than aiming and planning.

Our take
Basketball Stars is a lively, easy-to-learn sports game. Install it from the official store link on this page.