Traditional hardwood should not be used in basements. Engineered can be sometimes. If there are any moisture issues at all, avoid wood. Wood look tile or wood look vinyl planks would be a better option if there is any chance of moisture. Mid tone to natural colors show scratches and dust less - and can also be better if the lighting is low in a basement.

I agree hardwood in the basement is not a good idea I love the Luxury vinyl plank we put in ours with dry-core underneath for a bit of moisture protection and warmth.

A dark floor in a basement will DARKEN THE SPACE by several steps. What seems dark red at ground level will appear "almost black" in a basement space. The dark floor will help make the basement feel like a "dark hole".

I always recommend working with a floor in a basement that is 2-3 steps LIGHTER than you want...that way it will BECOME the dark floor you are looking for simply because of the lack of lighting.

The benefit to this: it is easier to maintain, less dust visible, etc, yet you still get the dramatic floor that you are craving.