Review
NBA Live 95 proved that the Super Nintendo could deliver a fast-paced, exciting sports game that was as fun to play as anything seen on the Genesis. So what would Hitmen Productions be able to do for an encore? Well, to be perfectly honest, not much has changed from 1994's game. The engine that worked so well in NBA Live 95 is still here and the overall look is nearly identical. Upon closer inspection, however, you'll notice a lot of subtle refinements designed to bring out the shine of an already polished game.
The graphics have been touched up with more player animations. This is evident with the new spin and crossover dribble, which can be performed simply by double tapping the "x" button. A lot of the dunks and shots look smoother as well, making the game more exciting to play. There's nothing like spinning around a defender, going up for the shot and having a teammate jump in for the alley-oop. This sense of control is what makes this series so great--that and the surge of adrenaline you get as you hit the turbo button just before slamming the ball.
Other improvements include a more dynamic crowd and revolving billboards on the sideline. As in NBA Live 95, the crowd sounds very realistic; whenever you dunk they'll let you know with a roar of approval. Yet in NBA Live 96 there's more energy--crowds will chant and pound the bleachers with their feet. The game also lets the crowd influence free throws (when you're away), since the T-meter now has an animated crowd in the background to distract you. The best thing is that a second player can take "control" of the crowd by rapidly tapping the button!
The biggest additions are the full trades (including those on the bench), expansion draft for the Toronto and Vancouver teams, and ability to create up to 32 new players. Hello, Michael Jordan! Glad to have you back in the game! You can set each player's name, type of head (a staggering 39 in total), skin tone, jersey number, handedness, position, height and weight, even where he went to college. Then you can adjust his overall skill ratings in scoring, rebounding, control, defense as well as individual skills such as free throw or dribbling ability. This is a welcome feature that was sorely missed in NBA Live 95.
As it stands, NBA Live 96 is a worthy addition to any fan who loved 1994's game but wanted greater flexibility in team management. It is difficult to recommend this game for the casual fan who already owns NBA Live 95, however. The differences aren't that drastic to make you want to upgrade the game. On the other hand, if you passed on 1994's title and want the best SNES basketball game for 1995, you have no excuse not shake and bake over to the store and slam your money on the counter. It doesn't get much better than this.
Graphics 
Players have more animation and a few new moves under their belt. Nice touches include the revolving billboard on the sideline and fans raising their arms in triumph. Still, the graphics aren't a dramatic leap from NBA Live 95.
Sound
The crowd sounds close to perfect. The only thing I didn't like was that they changed the music during the menu screens and at the very beginning. It doesn't have that catchy groove like 1994's game! It would have been nice if there was a PA announcer...
Enjoyment
The game is so fun to play, but an option to slow the game down would make it more appealing to simulation fans. The create player feature is a nice addition.
Replay Value 
Five players can play this game at once, so you'll be sure to have a lot of fun if you have an adapter (and enough friends!). The season mode, adjustable difficulty levels, and customizable options should keep the game from gathering dust.
Documentation
Everything is explained thoroughly. I like the "EA Tips" which help shed some light on the different features.
