The Best NBA 2K Games, Ranked

Discussing the best NBA 2K games of all time can be a touchy subject for basketball gamers. Every person has their respective opinions on the franchise’s best and worst entries. 2K games have done their best to stay relevant and modern. For example, including popular rappers as part of the game’s player career mode. However, sometimes this isn’t enough to wipe the bad taste of gameplay out of the player’s mouth.

This ranking will not take my opinion into account. Instead, I will breakdown the 5 most well received editions based on their Metacritic scores. This way the best games can be identified solely on how well rated they were. In addition, the amount of copies sold will also be included. Without further adieu, here are the top 5 NBA 2K games of all time.

5. NBA 2K12

Releasing in 2011, NBA 2K12 takes the 5th spot on the list. This game serves as a staple in the 2K community. Seemingly, the older games in the franchise tend to be the favorites. The current versions do not appear to hold up to how well received older versions are. This installment sold an incredible 4 million copies in total. Many other games have never even reached that high.

2K strived to build off of the last game and improve the immersion of the experience. Previously, they failed to properly capture the energy of the crowd. The atmosphere lacked in several ways. That finally changed in 2K12. Crowd attendance would be significantly different depending on record. If you were a team with more losses than wins, you typically would see less fans attending. As someone who plays a lot of sports games, atmosphere is important. It pulls you into the game, and adds a sense of realness.

Available on Playstation 3 and Xbox 360, this game scored a 90 overall on Metacritic.

4. NBA 2K13

Following up NBA 2K12 is the game that come out the next year. NBA 2K13. Starting off, this game was executively produced by the legendary rapper, Jay-Z. A major name to be involved on a franchise like this. In it’s first 24 hours, it seemingly sold 9.5 million copies. A massive step up from the year prior. Rightfully so. This game proved to be even better than the last. Many players still go back and play this classic as it is still one of the very best.

A metascore of 90 as well, this installment improved on a lot from before. Career mode become more immersive than ever before. New ways to dress your player and make an impact on how people feel about you. It was a standard set for all career modes across sports games. In addition, the game added an All-Star Weekend mode. The mode allowed you to play through all of the different events during the All-Star break.

3. NBA 2K17

The most current 2K game to appear on this list, this version once again changed plenty to continue improving and growing. Career mode followed through with being a story-driven, immersive experience. Only this time, they pulled in promising young actor, Michael B. Jordan. A massive edition for a sports video game at this time period. This version in the franchise sold 8.5 million copies.

Scoring yet another 90 on Metacritic, 2K17 may be the last basketball game that fans truly enjoyed of recent years. The game made steps towards making the MyLeague mode better. They added the ability to add expansion teams along with relocating any team. The mode also introduced the ability to manipulate the rules of your league. Graphics were also truly starting to become quite impressive. It is disappointing that NBA 2K games since this one have gone downhill. We can only hope they try to build off of feedback from the community.

2. NBA 2K1

While coming in second, this title is actually tied for 1st with the final edition to this list. Nothing beats a classic. At least, that’s how reviewers feel towards the franchise. This isn’t completely unheard of either. Other major sports franchise fans have similar feelings. FIFA and Madden fans alike tend to prefer older versions. Some of it is nostalgia, while the other part is just simple, but solid gameplay.

Scoring a remarkable 93, this entry still holds up today. Of course, the modern editions have incredible features. On the other hand, sometimes simplicity is preferred. NBA 2K1 had great gameplay for it’s time and online multiplayer. It also allowed the ability to play street basketball, to change up from the traditional league style.

1. NBA 2K2

Yes, the follow up to 2K1 takes first place. Another classic title on the list to give players love and nostalgia for the long running franchise. This was the first to release on Playstation 2, Xbox, and GameCube. Originally, it only ever appeared on the Sega Dreamcast. This version served as a nice upgrade to it’s predecessor. Introducing smarter AI, more street courts, and better gameplay.

Tied with the past title, it also scored a solid 93 overall. A game that makes those remember the joys of childhood. A game that reminds you of the time period and makes you love the game of basketball. NBA 2K2 added legends and an improved defensive system. While I struggled to find sales for this edition, it is no doubt this game was popular among it’s newly developed community. To this day, it is clearly still one of the most beloved of the franchise’s entire history.

In retrospect, the newer games do not seem to receive the same love as older versions. Understandably, the fans feel they are not always heard when talking about the problems. As is the case with many other major franchises. Opinion or not, the modern editions are still good in their own ways. They bring a lot of content as compared to the past. I think there will always be a large amount of love for the originals though. Sometimes, you just can’t beat classic.

The Most Anticipated Video Games For 2023

Every year there is always a list of the most anticipated video games. Release dates approach with everyone itching to test out new titles across all platforms. This year is no different, as the schedule for what will be released throughout 2023 is nothing short of thrilling. While there are certainly chances that some of these games will experience delays, most of these dates are set in stone. I know I can’t wait to sit down on a couch late night and grind out some of these upcoming titles! Below, we will take a look at the most anticipated titles releasing later this year.

Resident Evil 4 (Remake)

That excitement seems to hold up still as well. As the date approaches, the details and trailers that have dropped showcasing the game have pleased without a doubt. The release date being March 24th, soon enough everyone will be able to get their hands on the highly anticipated classic remake of Resident Evil 4. If you are a survival horror fan, this looks to be a much more eerie take on the original material.

Dead Island 2

Zombies. Who doesn’t love a good zombie game? The story behind this game’s release is a extensive and complicated one. They planned to release it all the way back in 2015. Yes, eight years later, finally within weeks of playing this long awaited title developed by Dambuster Studios. The gameplay that has been revealed is promising as well. The project looks to be a step up from its predecessor, adding more action and gore than before.

Set to release April 21st, the game has high expectations. Waiting as long as we have for Dead Island 2, fans want it to be a solid sequel to the original. Based on the gameplay shown, we will not be left disappointed with this compelling sequel that is just around the corner.

The Legend Of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

I can remember Nintendo as being a huge part of my childhood. Mario, Link, Donkey Kong, Tom Nook. These are just a few of the many iconic faces that they are responsible for creating. However, the focus is on one specific one. That one character being Link. Protagonist of the series The Legend Of Zelda. A series that has existed since the 80s. Naturally, that is why it is one of the most anticipated video games of 2023. It comes after Breath Of The Wild, a masterpiece of it’s own, the follow up is going to please fans everywhere.

Starfield

Bethesda steals the show yet again. Countless successful games such as Skyrim and Fallout. Todd Howard is setting up what could be yet another iconic title. Starfield. Arguably THE most anticipated video game for 2023. Skepticism will unfortunately follow the game until fans can be certain it is at least playable. On the other hand, it’s Bethesda. Creator of some of the most iconic modern games. Fallout 76 had it’s rough outing, many didn’t enjoy it, including myself.

Past mistakes can help build a brighter future. Personally, I believe this one will be MASSIVE. A popular description comparing it to Skyrim, but in space. It is a game that definitely peaks interest, and the highest profile releasing this year. September 6th is the expected date that every Xbox player will be able to play. Additionally, it is almost certain that more about the game will be revealed at E3.

Marvel’s Spider Man 2

Little is known about the sequel to the very successful original. Insomniac has come out to say that the game is expected to release in fall of this year. As for what to expect? It will be a blast. Peter Parker and Miles Morales swinging through New York always makes for a good time. In addition, the only trailer revealed for the project showed off Venom, a classic Spider Man villain. The game is being released only on the PS5, so it will not appear on last generation or other platforms initially. I know I will have to buy a PS5 so I can play this. It is for sure one of the most anticipated video games for 2023.

PlayStation 5 Pro Rumors Hit The Internet, Gamers React

If you are a gamer, you probably either have the Xbox Series X, or the PlayStation 5. Unfortunately, even now, the PlayStation 5 has been hard to come by. Overall, there have been various supply chain issues since the start of the pandemic. These various problems have consequently made it difficult for Sony to produce as many consoles as they would like. Gamers are the ultimate victims of this as there is hardly any stock available for them. It is an incredibly frustrating fact of life that is seemingly starting to improve. At least a little bit.

Despite these issues, it is being reported by Insider Gaming that yet another new PlayStation 5 is on the way. Typically, during the middle of a console generation, Microsoft and Sony create upgrades for their existing ranges. Well, that is what seems to be happening here with the PlayStation 5 Pro. This is a console that is meant to be less expensive to produce, which will be good for both Sony and its consumers. Moreover, there will be some spec updates. However, the extent of these updates is still unknown.

PlayStation 5 Pro On The Way?

It is also being reported that this console will be released in 2024. Although some might find this to be good news, most gamers are skeptical. One big concern here is the fact that we could see a price increase. Moreover, there are very few games for the PlayStation 5 right now, which makes a new console very redundant. There were various other concerns from gamers. For instance, one user said “What’s the point of a PS5 Pro and/or a Xbox Series X|S 2 Last gen needed the hardware upgrade as 1080p/60 should have been the standard but this gen we can do 4K, we can do 60fps and some ray tracing.”

At this point, it feels like fans would rather just get the PlayStation 6. At least then, there would be some real innovation. However, creating a new console right now feels a bit premature. Let us know what you think of the situation, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the gaming world.

Twitter Reacts

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Lil Durk Becomes Playable Character In “NBA 2K23”

Lil Durk is an incredible basketball player. Although Durk is mostly known for his work in the hip-hop world, you cannot deny how well he can play basketball. For those who are not aware, Durk has been showcasing his basketball skills quite a bit over the years. Overall, he is mostly known as a shooter who can knock down threes like no one’s business. After all, he has a bit of a smaller frame which makes it difficult for him to actually attack the rim. Instead, he has to focus on getting his shot to the point where he can score from anywhere.

If you have been paying attention to the video game world as of late, you have probably noticed how a lot of rappers are getting into NBA 2K23. For instance, Jack Harlow and J. Cole have become characters in the game. Moreover, Lil Wayne recently became a playable character. Overall, this is great news for fans of basketball and hip-hop. This is because it ultimately allows a crossover of cultures. Additionally, it demonstrates how the creators of 2K appreciate the genre.

Lil Durk In 2K

Subsequently, Durk is also going to be a character in the game. Yes, that is correct, you will now be able to play as the Chicago artist in the latest iteration of 2K. As they showcase in the video above, this will be part of MyTEAM. Furthermore, Durk will be wearing the number 3 and even sports a pair of Air Jordan 3s. If you complete his spotlight challenge, you will be able to unlock his card. From there, you can add him to your team and play as him. It’s a cool addition that we are sure he is excited about.

This crossover between 2K and hip-hop will not be stopping anytime soon. With NBA 2K24 expected later this year, we’re sure they have plenty of other activations planned for people to enjoy. That said, let us know what you think of Durk’s inclusion in the game, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from the sports, music, and gaming worlds.

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Dr. Dre’s ‘Grand Theft Auto Online’ Missions Are Providing Players With Significant, Limited Time Prizes

Yesterday (March 2), Rockstar Games announced the new Grand Theft Auto Online event. Through March 8, users now have the chance to earn “even more lucrative” rewards in all of the missions that feature Dr. Dre.

According to NME, “the event will offer double in-game cash and RP rewards for completing F. Clinton & Partner’s Security Contract missions.” The publication also notes that “finishing Payphone Hits for Franklin” will earn fans more money.

Finally, anybody who simply logs on to GTA Online before the set date will receive a free White DJ Pooh Tee.

Last December, Rockstar Games unveiled The Contract expansion — which included the rapper’s new music on the soundtrack, given it serves as a direct tie-in to the game. Players have to help him track down his stolen music.

“Dr. Dre’s stolen phone is the talk of the town. Word is the device is loaded with never-before-heard music,” the company posted on social media. “Tracking it down before it leaks could make or break your new “celebrity solutions Agency” — and you’ll be the one getting your hands dirty.”

In other recent news within the Grand Theft Auto realm, 50 Cent hinted on social media that he might have some possible involvement in the forthcoming game — so there’s plenty happening for players to be excited for.

Top 10 Video Game Characters

Video game characters have been a part of our lives for decades. As time has progressed, they’ve become more and more detailed because of gaming consoles’ graphic capabilities. Some have faded with time and others have been around for the long run and will probably never leave. We’ve seen them on screens of various sizes or memorized what they look like to buy a game for a loved one. We may have even dressed up as one for one reason or another. Depending on someone’s age, a character’s iconic status may differ. However, there are a few I think we can all agree deserve their flowers and the hype they have. Here are ten of the most iconic and recognizable video game characters over the last three decades.

#10: Lara Croft

The Tomb Raider games are classics and the franchise has definitely progressed as the years have gone on. Lara Croft is the first video game character many of us saw brought into the live action world. Her look on the PlayStation 1 games is iconic and somewhat of a meme but the legacy began there. Angelina Jolie brought the character to life in two live action movies and many people were interested in them without even knowing her character came from a game series. In 2013, the series returned for the consoles of the time. Lara Croft was one of the first women to star in a game and her name is synonymous with history because of that. The last game released in 2018 and a new one is being developed by Amazon Games with few details available currently.

#9: Crash Bandicoot

Crash is an iconic character and a true pioneer in the world of platforming games. He’s been around for years and while he may not have been getting brand new games across the years his legacy remains intact. His first three games have been remastered for current generation consoles proving that people are still nostalgic for him. This type of treatment is how generations can connect. Crash has always represented the pure fun aspect of gaming where precise timing and patience are the keys to victory. Players agree that sometimes it can be very difficult but they still want to keep playing. The bright and colorful world he’s in is the perfect place for his silly over the top personality. His most recent game, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, released in 2020.

#8: Sora

Sora’s keyblade weapon is the most recognizable aspect of the Kingdom Hearts series. People may not recognize his face immediately but they definitely know the keyblade – and his large shoes. His outfit is very popular amongst cosplayers and it’s also common for streamers to have a keyblade on their wall. Sora is truly the face of the Kingdom Hearts series and along with his associates, stick out amongst the instantly recognizable Disney characters that are in the games. The series is a Japanese made RPG so naturally there are multiple versions of each game with various expansions. This has allowed players to experience them through various generations of consoles. It’s always nice to have a nostalgic experience while still getting something brand new out of it too. The upcoming Kingdom Hearts 4 is the fifteenth game in the series.

#7: Sub – Zero

The concept of Mortal Kombat is known by many people who have never done a single move in the game. The iconic graphic violence of the game and the “FATALITY” voiceover has been referenced by fans and people who know fans for decades. One of the most popular characters from the game is Sub-Zero. Many gravitate towards him due to his abilities to create/manipitale ice in a variety of ways to destroy his opponents. True fans also know there are actually two people who have taken the “Sub-Zero” name, – Bi Han and his successor Kuai Liang. Sub-Zero is a character that has been in every Mortal Kombat game since the very first one in 1992 and the “Cyber Sub-Zero” variant was available in 2011’s Mortal Kombat (a reboot of the series but officially the 9th game in the series.)

#6 Ezio Auditore da Firenze

The populr Assassin’s Creed video games are another series with an iconic lead character – but players will quickly inform you almost every game has a different lead character. However, they do share a similar look. This look is the iconic hooded face, an adorned chest and waist area and of course the extended hidden blade on the left hand. When most people picture the series, they think of Ezio who debuted in Assassin’s Creed II from 2009. His character gave the series even more attention and he paved the way for the other characters who followed in his footsteps. Out of all of them, many cite Ezio as their favorite since he may have been the first one they played as or that his game took the franchise to the next level.

#5: Kratos

Kratos is another character many people recognize and it’s very hard to mistake him for someone else. With his white skin, red markings and full beard, he has a very intimidating presence. Kratos first appeared in God of War for the PlayStation 2 in 2005. You’ve likely seen his most recent iteration in God of War: Ragnarok which released in 2022. This game is a sequel to the reboot from 2018 also titled God of War. Kratos is not the most pleasant character in the gaming world but considering what he’s been through, it is completely understandable. Players are drawn to him because of his cold personality and how his combative abilities reflect his ruthlessness. The way the games integrate both Greek and Norse mythology also give players insight onto that world and many have taken interest in both outside of the game because of it.

#4 Master Chief

While the “Halo Guy” is not a completely inaccurate name, video game players will still correct you if you use it. The Halo series is a staple in the history of the Xbox and many players remember the original game on the first generation Xbox. Master Chief’s armored suit that comes with a full face helmet is iconic. He’s easily one of the most cool looking first person shooting games characters. In fact, many of us may remember seeing full size cardboard cutouts of him standing in GameStop and Blockbuster. The Halo games have been around for years and were pioneers in the sci-fi first person shooter world of gaming. It’s only right the iconic nostalgic imagery stick in people’s minds for years.

#3 Kirby

Everyone may not know what Kirby technically is but they do agree that he is cute. His look is simplistic but iconic and has made drawing him in various ways fun for artists all over. Like several characters from our childhood, children of this generation may be more familiar with seeing him as a meme. The character debuted in 1992 in Kirby’s Dream Land and like his fellow Nintendo characters on this list, has become a staple symbol for the company. Kirby can adapt and gain new abilities with his copy ability. And of course, his iconic ability to inhale things comes in handy and his flying does too. Kirby is a legacy character and several of his original games have found their way to the Nintendo Switch.

#2 Sonic

Sonic is one of the first video game characters that people viewed as cool. His debut in 1991’s Sonic The Hedgehog was iconic because it took the side scrolling platform game concept to the next level. The speed at which Sonic moved was his claim to fame and the games showcased this very well. As time went on, the camera shifted behind him and players could really get a full sense of his speed essentially from his perspective. Sonic has appeared in multiple games across the years along with other characters from his world with various unique mechanics appearing in many of them. Most recently, he entered the world of open world games with Sonic Frontiers which was released in 2022. Sonic’s positive attitude and witty humor make him a standout character and his look is timeless.

#1 Mario

Mario is the most recognizable video game character of all. He’s been around since 1981 after making his debut in the Donkey Kong arcade game. Once he got his own game, Super Mario Bros. , for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985, he continued to appear in multiple games for Nintendo game consoles across the years. Mario is another character many people have used for memes most recently but his legacy in the gaming world is iconic and timeless. Many families have seen him when playing Mario Kart and he’ll always be one of the characters from games that parents have no issues with. As a character from a platformer, he is truly a part of the foundation of what video games are. It’s only right he makes his move into the (animated) movie world with The Super Mario Bros. Movie which releases April 7,2023.

Do you agree with our list? Let us know in the comments section.

Microtransactions Could Be Ruining Gaming

Microtransactions could be ruining gaming for players. With games already being a whopping $70 for the latest generation consoles, spending additional money on them adds up. Most older players do not feel obligated to make microtransactions but younger ones often have a different experience. Having the latest skin for your character is a status symbol. In some cases, microtransactions are “pay-to-win” which means you can purchase items that give you an advantage over other players. This is many players’ main issue with microtransactions.

However, with younger players, their parents are usually spending the money on the microtransaction. Sometimes, the child takes matters into their own hands and this often does not work out well. Older players often don’t make microtransactions because they feel the items are not worth their price. Item bundles are often around $20 which is around ⅓ of the price of the game itself. With games like Call of Duty, many players feel more attention is given to the bundles instead of maintaining the quality of the game itself.

In games like Fortnite, bundles are often connected to large IPs (Intellectual Properties). This means players can use characters from Marvel, DC, Dragonball Super or even John Wick himself. Sometimes music artists like Travis Scott are in the game. Younger players are the main target with these bundles while some older players see them as cash grabs. Fortnite does collaborations like these pretty regularly which provides constant income for the free-to-play game. The headlines of the characters/people in the game generate interest every time.

The Bundles Of Video Games

(L-R) Christian Watson, Rahsaan Lewis, and Bo Melton play in the COD game play area during Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II event at the 2022 NFL Draft. (Photo by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Activision)

In several cases, when one bundle is purchased on a game’s store page, another one takes its place. After making a purchase, a player may see something they are far more interested in than the one they just bought. The refund process is complex and players often would rather accept the loss of money than attempt that process. The store page often shows up differently for all players so one player may have something available on their screen that another player cannot even see.

Additionally, with bundles, sometimes items are promised but not delivered. In shooting games, a gun may be one color on the store page. But once you buy it, the color is slightly different once your character is holding it. The same thing can happen with a gun’s tracer rounds. Bullets naturally look yellow-orangish when shooting so players feel advertising a gun with “yellow” or “orange” tracer rounds is not fair. Many players often directly call these situations false advertising.

Microtransactions have seen two iterations in recent years: blind/loot boxes and bundles. With the former, you are taking a risk because you do not know what items you are even getting. The incentive for these is you are often guaranteed you won’t get any items you already have. Or, you are guaranteed one item specifically. With the bundles, you know exactly what you are getting but out of the five or so items, you may only be interested in three of them. There is no a la carte option.

This Has Been A Huge Issue For Video Gamers

Atmosphere seen during Call of Duty: Vanguard launch event with a first-ever verzuz concert. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images For Activision )

Microtransactions have become such an issue for players that games who don’t have them use that as a selling point. Naturally, this separates them from those that do but other aspects of the game may suffer. The gameplay itself may have issues or there may be issues with server connectivity. Not every developer has the same budget but even the multi-million dollar ones have the same issues as the smaller ones. This causes confusion amongst players as they wonder what is being done with the money they are spending.

However, a more favored microtransaction is a battle pass. A battle pass is often $10 but players get 100 “tiers” worth of items for the game. These items are all cosmetic and like with bundles, some items are much more enticing to players than others. The item at the 100th tier of the battle pass is often the “best” one but naturally this depends on the player’s preference. Progression through this battle pass is connected to how much time players spend playing the game.

Furthermore, another more pleasantly received microtransaction is a season pass. A season pass allows the player to pay a one time fee to get Downloadable Content (DLC) in the game’s cycle. They are not getting new items for “free” but getting them for no additional fee as they are released. This method completely eliminates the need for separate purchases. But, if something comes out that a player doesn’t want they’ve essentially still paid for it.

There Have Been Attempted Boycotts

T-Pain speaks onstage for Call of Duty: Vanguard launch event with a first-ever verzuz concert. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Activision)

Players have attempted to boycott the unfair practice of microtransactions by not purchasing a game’s battle pass or bundles for the current season. Players believe once the developer sees the numbers are lower for the amount spent on the microtransactions they will change their behavior. However, in most cases the amount of players who do this is significantly lower than those who continue to purchase the bundles overall. Additionally, most players who are boycotting were already not regularly spending money on the bundles.

Furthermore, microtransactions can often lead to other microtransactions. A specific bundle may not be available until a different bundle connected to it is purchased. This, once again, forces players to get something they may not want to access something they do actually want. Additionally, there is usually a waiting period between when the first purchase is made and when the second level of additional items can be accessed. Many players think this greedy because it helps inflate the number of purchases for the bundle in the company’s earnings report.

Microtransactions have been around for multiple years. In the past, Call of Duty had microtransactions in the form of map packs. Players could pay a set price for up to 5 additional maps to play on. The original issue with this format was players who did not have the map packs would naturally be separated from those who did. This is one of the first instances of microtransactions causing a divide amongst a game’s player base. In the years since, Call of Duty has changed this format and offers new maps to players for free.

Microtransactions Also Occur In Fighting Games

Signage seen during Call of Duty: Vanguard launch event with a first-ever verzuz concert. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Activision)

In fighting games, microtransactions are how players obtain more characters for their roster. With games like Dragonball FighterZ, new characters are regularly appearing in the anime so they are added to the game as time progresses. With games like the Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat series, players feel some characters should not be in the game at launch to make room for characters players want more. This way they don’t have to make a microtransaction to get them.

With single player games, microtransactions are often DLC that expands the storyline of the game. In the case of Marvel’s Spider-Man, these stories involved Spider-Man getting involved in new situations with new characters. In Ghost of Tshushima, the DLC involved lead character Jin Sakai traveling to a new location in the game and doing new activities with new characters.

Also, in some cases, the novelty of a microtransaction is what makes it worth it for players. In the Call of Duty games, there have been microtransactions where players could purchase surprising but fitting bundles. These bundles included being able to play as Sylvester Stallone’s character Rambo, Bruce Willis’ character John McClain from the Die Hard film series. In Call of Duty: Vanguard, you could play as Snoop Dogg. In other games, Snoop Dogg’s voice could also be purchased as an announcer as well as Method Man’s.

Microtransactions are not likely to be removed from games on a grand scale any time soon. They have proven to be a huge source of income and they will continue to be. All game developers claim to “listen to their community” but more often than not this isn’t fully true. They may fix some issues the game is having but will not initiate the removal of the number one aspect players want removed: microtransactions.

50 Cent Used A ‘Grand Theft Auto Vice City’ Picture To Cryptically Tease His Potential Game Involvement

50 Cent has video game fans talking after he posted a cryptic tweet with an image from Grand Theft Auto’s Vice City.

“I will explain this later, GLG GreenLight Gang this sh*t bigger than Power trust me. Boom #bransoncognac #lecheminduroi,” he captioned the post.

Because of this, there’s speculation that the rapper might play a role in the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 game and fans are here for it.

“Everytime I see that Vice City image… just a flood of memories pour in! Whatever you got going on with this… I’m interested,” one wrote.

“50 you gotta explain it now! I just bought the rockstar games trilogy with Vice City. What is going on here. And yes I’m gon buy it again,” another added.

According to NME, early footage of GTA 6 was leaked online previously — prompting an arrest to be made by British police. The game franchise’s publisher, Take Two, noted that despite that happening, it won’t affect development.

“With regards to the leak, it was terribly unfortunate, and we take those sorts of incidents very seriously indeed,” Take-Two’s CEO Strauss Zelnick said in November. “There’s no evidence that any material assets were taken, which is a good thing, and certainly the leak won’t have any influence on development or anything of the sort.”

Bad Bunny Shines As Playable Character In 2K’s “WWE 2K23” Trailer

Bad Bunny will be a playable characters in 2K’s upcoming WWE 2K23 video game, at least for those who pre-order the title. Moreover, they just released a trailer showing off his model in-game, plus a few moves and engaging animations. Furthermore, he’s dressed in the same outfit he wore for his own real-life (or kayfabe) wrestling appearance. This includes an all-black ensemble, complete with a small design of the Puerto Rican flag on his trousers. For fans of wrestling games, he’s a fresh face in a legendary crowd. For fans of Bad Bunny… have you ever wanted to body John Cena as your favorite reggaetón star?

Of course, this is just one of many extracurricular avenues of an artist whose base achievements are already stellar. For example, through his Adidas collaborations, Benito Martínez Ocasio broke through into the sneaker space with some eye-catching designs and color ways. Also, his fondness for pro wrestling dates back to his childhood, as does much of his passion projects. Throughout his discography, even if you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll find creative and boastful references to the WWE and beyond.

Bad Bunny Joins The Virtual Ring In WWE 2K23 Trailer

However, a lot of news around Benito’s circled around his rumored (and hopefully bilingual) love life as of late. Moreover, social media exploded with rumors that he’s dating Kendall Jenner, both with excitement and disappointment. People’s superfluous opinions on celebrity romance aside, it certainly made for interesting discourse online. Furthermore, the latest development in that story was people spotting Bad Bunny on a dating app following the alleged borderline scandalous weekend with Jenner. Neither party’s written anything in stone as of writing this article, but it’s adding to his already insane profile.

Meanwhile, as 2K boasted in the WWE 2K23 trailer, Benito hardly needs a profile boost as the most streamed artist of 2022. Also, he received a lot of praise and attention for his opening performance at this year’s Grammys. Even rap legend 50 Cent stepped in and called out closed captioning for subtitling his show with [Singing in non-English]. Whether it’s from wrestlers, rappers, or socialites, the world can’t get enough of one of the most groundbreaking artists of our time. Maybe that’s Boricua bias, but it’s hard to argue against him. Regardless, let us know if you’re pre-ordering WWE 2K23 in the comments and return to HNHH for the latest big news on Bad Bunny.

LeBron James Teams Up With PlayStation For New PS5 & Controller Design

If you know LeBron James, you know that he loves his video games. Overall, he is a huge Madden gamer who loves engaging in tournaments from time to time. Moreover, he has frequently been filmed enjoying some games of Madden in the comfort of his own home. He just loves the feeling of video gaming, and that makes him the perfect person for PlayStation to collaborate with. While this might be an ultra-specific observation, it is mostly because PlayStation and James are, indeed, set to collaborate.

According to TMZ, LeBron and PlayStation are coming through with a unique controller and console cover. Both of these items will drop later this year, and overall, PlayStation could not be more excited. “We couldn’t have asked for a more ideal partner to be the first-ever collaborator to design limited-edition PlayStation products,” PlayStation’s SVP and Head of Global Marketing Eric Lempel said. “It was great to see LeBron’s vision for the design come to life and showcase his passions for gaming and community. We hope PlayStation fans will love this design as much as we enjoyed helping create it.”

LeBron x PlayStation

In the video up above and the image below, you can see what this cover and controller will look like. Overall, they both have a black base. Moreover, they are covered in colorful crowns that represent James’ iconic logo. Lastly, the phrase “Nothing is Given, Everything is Earned” is written on both the controller and the cover. While taking to Instagram, LeBron revealed just how much fun he had designing these. “These words inspire me and my I Promise students and I hope do the same for gamers all over,” LeBron said. “Still crazy to think a kid from Akron who grew up playing games is getting to create something like this!”

Fans of LeBron are certainly going to appreciate this latest activation. For now, however, little is still known about the release of these items. Hopefully, new information will be revealed sooner rather than later. Let us know what you think of this console cover and controller, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sports world.

Closer Look

Image via PlayStation

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