While Visual Concepts' NBA 2K10 won't be available at retailers until later in the fall, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 owners will be able to get a head start on training custom players in September with the downloadable release of NBA 2K10: Draft Combine.

Priced at $5 (400 Microsoft Points), the game lets players build up their custom character with skill points through various drills and 5-on-5 skirmishes. Those custom characters can then be imported into NBA 2K10 once the game hits stores.

"We're giving our dedicated NBA 2K fans an incredible opportunity with NBA 2K10: Draft Combine," explained 2K VP Greg Thomas. "Gamers will have exclusive access to online content and get to test drive NBA 2K10's new gameplay features, advanced... Read more

Visual Concept's NBA 2K series will make its PC debut on October 21 with NBA 2K9, publisher and studio owner 2K Sports announced today.

"The PC version will please even the most dedicated basketball fans with the same level of quality simulation we've become known for in the console versions of the NBA 2K franchise," promised 2K sports development VP Greg Thomas.

2K Sports' expansion into the PC market follows rival EA's decision to not release PC editions of its major franchises this year, though PC releases will return next year.

As with the latest entry EA's NBA Live series, the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 editions of NBA 2K9 arrive in stores today.