The Legend Of Zelda is easily one of the greatest video game franchises ever. Over the decades, this franchise has released countless games on various Nintendo platforms. Gamers of all ages appreciate the series, and overall, some would argue that Link is one of the most iconic characters ever. Consequently, Nintendo is always looking to have new games developed. The previous Legend Of Zelda game, Breath Of The Wild, was one of the biggest successes of the series. Now, they are following that up with Tears Of The Kingdom.
Considering how good the last game is, it is going to be very difficult for Nintendo to appease everyone and their expectations. As we know, gamers can be very difficult people. One just has to go on YouTube and Twitter to understand what we mean. However, in various trailers, the new Legend Of Zelda game has looked absolutely fantastic. In fact, today, Nintendo launched the final pre-launch trailer for the game. As you can see below, this is the kind of trailer that will drum up the hype.
The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom appears to have an epic storyline. The map of the game is going to be expansive, and we can just imagine some of the gameplay improvements that will be made. Much of Breath Of The Wild’s success came from the fact that it was open world. Consequently, Nintendo has taken note, and we should see some of those same elements in the new game. Overall, there seems to be a lot here for gamers, especially those who are longtime fans of the series. Whether or not it lives up to the hype, remains to be seen.
Additionally, it should be noted that this game is set to be released on May 12th through the Nintendo Switch. If you want to get your hands on it, then you can pre-order it through the Nintendo web store, or through your local GameStop. Let us know what you think of this new trailer, in the comments section below. Moreover, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the tech world.
While superhero movies may be slowing down, video game movies and adaptations appear to be heating up. Sonic the Hedgehog, The Last of Us, Tetris, Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, and many more have come out in recent years. Most of them have been major hits with fans, critics, and sometimes both.
The Super Mario Bros. Moviejust came out and has already smashed records in one weekend. It’s projected to become the highest-grossing video game movie of all time by a wide margin. It also feels like an event in time. People may not have realized what Iron Man would kickstart in 2008, but it certainly feels like this is the precipice of a new MCU- the Mario Cinematic Universe. It’s clear that video game movies and projects are all the rage right now. With a vast library of video games to pull from, which characters need to get their own movies?
Video Game Movies Need Characters Like Pac-Man & Samus
Retro Video Arcade Game
While Pac-Man was a part of the movie Pixels, the character needs its own video game adaptation. Pac-Man may not seem like a good game to adapt to the big screen, but studios have found a way to bring Sonic and Tetris to the theaters somehow, so Pac-Man can be done, too. Pac-Man has been around a long time and is a staple of gaming. It’s high time it was brought into some legitimate video game adaptation.
There were rumors of a Metroid project and that Brie Larson would star as Samus Aran, but there’s no official confirmation. The fact that one of the most iconic video game protagonists and a leading lady hasn’t even been considered for a major motion picture is a bit surprising. She may get lost in the shuffle with Nintendo’s vast library of characters. However, as more characters adapt, there’s no reason to ignore the Metroid franchise.
The Lack of Legend of Zelda Video Game Movies Is Unbelievable
SAN DIEGO, CA – JULY 21: Chris Evans playing The Legend of Zelda 3D at Nintendo’s Arts & Cinema Centre while at Comic Con promoting “Captain America” on July 21, 2011 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Todd Williamson/WireImage)
The fact that no one has ever tried to make a Legend of Zelda movie is a huge surprise. Studios made a live-action Mario movie in the 1990s, and it was awful. Yet, a movie set in Hyrule can’t be done? There’s never even been a legitimate rumor about a project in development, either.
Zelda is one of the video game franchises that could easily be live-action or animated. If they want to build a Nintendo universe, it could be animated. Either way, Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, and others could and should be adapted sooner rather than later. It’s also a video game franchise with a few clear storylines. That alone makes adapting video game movies for this franchise much easier than others. It has recognizable characters that could easily become some of the best video game movie characters.
A GTA Movie Would Be Pretty Easy to Make
BRAZIL – 2021/10/06: In this photo illustration the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) logo seen displayed on a smartphone. (Photo Illustration by Rafael Henrique/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Video game movies don’t have to be fun, colorful, and intended for kids. Tons of video games are definitively not for children. The Last of Us may be the best video game adaptation of all time, and it is not for a young audience. Any rated M game could follow in its footsteps now.
For this reason, a GTA movie based around CJ or one of the other characters would be excellent. It would easily be the most morally complex video game movie and draw a major audience. There is plenty of games’ worth of stories to draw from, too.
Arthur Morgan Would Be An Excellent Protagonist
PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 09: In this photo illustration a gamer plays the video game ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ (RDR 2) on January 9, 2019 in Paris, France. Red Dead Redemption 2, typographed Red Dead Redemption II is an action-adventure and multi-platform western video game developed by Rockstar Studios and published by Rockstar Games released on October 26, 2018. In the UK, ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ has been number 1 in sales for the past two weeks and has been designated the 2018 Christmas Game. (Photo Illustration by Chesnot/Getty Images)
Red Dead Redemption would be an excellent video game project, primarily due to Arthur Morgan. He’s one of the best video game protagonists ever, and both games have devoted fan bases. He was a relatively morally good character in a time and setting with few. That alone makes for a good story.
They’re also relatively plot-based. An old Western movie centered on Arthur Morgan and the world of RDR would be easy enough to pull off. There are enough side characters to justify a movie, too. The setting would be one of the most exciting parts, as well.
If They’re Building A Nintendo Universe, Kirby Must Be Included
CULVER CITY, CA – JUNE 22: In this photo provided by Nintendo of America, Peyton List from “Bunk’d” attends the Kirby: Planet Robobot event celebrating the games launch at Smashbox Studios in Culver City, California, on June 22, 2016. In this new action-packed adventure, Kirby gets new abilities and transformations, such as flamethrower arms and buzz-saw hands. (Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for Nintendo of America)
Whether or not Nintendo intends to bring its properties together on-screen as they have with the Super Mario Bros. franchise remains to be seen. However, if they bring Zelda in and continue with Mario, they must consider Kirby. Undoubtedly, Kirby is one of the most beloved and fun characters in their library. He exists in a fun world that would make for excellent viewing- much like the Mushroom Kingdom did for The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Bright, pink, and colorful would make a good animated film.
Isabelle And Tom Nook Need A Film
Goods of Nintendo game character Isabelle, known as Shizue in Japan, from the Animal Crossing series of video games are displayed at a new Nintendo store during a press preview in Tokyo on November 19, 2019. – Nintendo opens the doors this week at its first brick-and-mortar store in Tokyo, offering everything from Super Mario mugs to Zelda handbags at a complex targeting visiting gamers and local enthusiasts. (Photo by Behrouz MEHRI / AFP) (Photo by BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP via Getty Images)
There would be plenty to choose from in making an Animal Crossing movie, but two of the most consistent and iconic characters should lead it: Tom Nook and Isabelle. They run the towns that players live in, and everyone knows who they are and what they do. Animal Crossing is a life simulator, so the possibilities for a movie are endless. These villagers and characters just live life, which often makes for the best movies. A slice-of-life film with animal protagonists could be something like Zootopia, which was a hit.
A Fortnite Film Is All But Promised
SOUTH PASADENA, CA – APRIL 23: 11-year-old Ansel, the photographer’s son, plays Fortnite featuring Travis Scott Presents: Astronomical on April 23, 2020 in South Pasadena, California. Travis Scott + Cactus Jack have partnered with Fortnite to produce Astronomical, a one of a kind in-game experiential performance and the world premiere of a new song. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images)
The Fortnite storyline is very loose and held together by threads, but it is there. That alone makes a movie pretty likely. Plus, it’s one of the most popular video games in recent memory, so it would be like printing money. Since it debuted in 2017, it’s exploded onto the scene, and people would flock to the movie.
Jonesy is perhaps the most popular skin and could easily be the protagonist. There are storyline aspects and lore to tap into that could make for a genuinely interesting movie. There are also countless characters to bring in, though some of the crossovers would be interesting from a legal standpoint.
Make The CoD Zombies Movie Now
VENICE, CA – APRIL 03: Philadelphia Eagles Running Back LaSean McCoy Goes Head-To-Head Against All-Pro Receiver A.J. Green Of The Cincinatti Bengals On Xbox One In The Call Of Duty: Ghosts Celebrity Grudge Match To Celebrate The Launch Of Devastation DLC Map Pack at Microsoft House on April 3, 2014 in Venice, California. (Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for Activision)
The Call of Duty zombies storyline is fascinating, but there’s not a lot of information there. There are connections, but a lot of it is decided by fan theories. Making a movie helmed by Edward Richtofen himself would be so good. Finally, explaining it all would be reason enough for gamers to get into the theater on opening night.
As flimsy as it is, the storyline that did exist is fascinating, and there’s a lot to explore there. Plus, with precious few details, the creative license for a director would be an enticing advantage. If this movie doesn’t get made, many gamers will be upset.
A Real Pokémon Video Game Movies Franchise With Ash Ketchum
Pokemon, popular game characters of Japanese video game giant Nintendo are displayed at a shop in Tokyo, 25 July 2007. Nintendo said its net profit soared more than five-fold in the fiscal first quarter as its breakthrough Wii console and handheld machines flew off the shelves. Net earnings jumped to 80.25 billion yen (669 million USD) in the three months to June from 15.55 billion yen a year earlier. AFP PHOTO / Yoshikazu TSUNO (Photo credit should read YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP via Getty Images)
The Detective Pikachu movie is good. It’s a lot of fun, and the CGI on the actual Pokémon is incredible. However, it’s more of a people movie in a world with Pokémon. A Pokémon movie needs to follow Ash Ketchum, though he wasn’t technically in any games.
Nevertheless, there’s plenty of story and lore to tap into and a whole world of possibilities. This, too, could be a part of the Nintendo Universe if that’s the road they opt to go down. As it stands, the Detective Pikachu franchise couldn’t overlap with The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Polo G is the latest rapper to appear in one of the NBA games from 2K, but his reaction shows that he’s partly at a loss for words and partly prone to laughing at his inclusion. Moreover, he recently posted a video to his Instagram story reacting to his in-game model. While it’s certainly up for debate, a lot of people think that the playable character doesn’t look too much like him in real life. Still, the Chicago MC had some fun with it, and couldn’t hold his laughter when talking about his inclusion. “Folks just blast me into that s**t,” he stated while also hinting at him not even knowing he would be in the game in the first place.
With this achievement, the 24-year-old certainly belongs to more than one Hall of Fame. For those unaware of the video game series bringing rappers over, previous inclusions saw rappers like Lil Durk, Jack Harlow, and Lil Wayne appear in virtual form. What’s more is that J. Cole even appears on the game’s box art for NBA 2K23‘s DREAMER Edition, marking the first time a rapper graced the cover art in the franchise’s history.
“NBA 2K has long been a place to discover new musical talent through their game and continues to be a gold standard for showcasing all things basketball culture,” the Dreamville boss stated. “It’s been an amazing journey to not only appear on a cover of this year’s game, but to be part of the MyCAREER storyline, soundtrack and bring the DREAMER brand into NBA 2K.” However, Polo G did laugh along, but mostly sounded appreciative of the opportunity much like Cole is.
Meanwhile, the “Neva Cared” rapper recently revealed that he stopped taking Percocet after Juice WRLD’s tragic passing. ““It made me look at a lot of s**t differently,” Polo G expressed on his episode of the series RapCaviar Presents. “That made me stop popping Percocets altogether, though. ‘Cause I know he wouldn’t want me on that s**t.” In fact, that move even led his father to do the same, which he spoke about during the episode as well. “Being able to see that and say, ‘Damn, my son can get it together’- I need to [as well].” For more updates on Polo G and the latest news on his life and career, come back to HNHH.
The running joke is that Snoop Dogg is completing side missions at this point in his career. Over 30+ years, the Long Beach native went from being middle America’s nightmare to Martha Stewart’s BFF. He has his hand in all sorts of bags, from music and television to youth sports and so much more. Snoop was also one of the first rappers to invest in the world of e-Sports. He joined Faze Clan’s board of directors last year, though it seems like the partnership has now ended.
According to Joe Pompliano, Snoop is no longer on board with Faze Clan. The Death Row owner reportedly resigned from his position as Faze’s stock drops. “He was given about $2 million in equity when he joined the company last year, but the stock is down 95% since, and his shares don’t vest for another year,” Pompliano reports. Following Snoop’s resignation, Faze Clan is reportedly trying to go private since their stock fell below a dollar.
The news came after FaZe Clan filed its 2022 Q4 financial report on March 30th, which provided a major glimpse into the company’s success since going public. As part of the signing, Snoop reportedly told FaZe that he would be stepping down from his role on March 28th. However, FaZe noted that Snoop’s decision wasn’t due to “any disagreement with the company or any of its subsidiaries.” Though the rapper hasn’t publicly made any statements, it seems that the company’s financial plummet led to his resignation.
Snoop Dogg joined FaZe Clan around this time last year as a member of its talent network and board of directors. The impressive move led the rapper to help produce content and merchandise for the brand. In a statement to the Hollywood Reporter, Snoop explained that it was his son that introduced him to the world of eSports and Faze Clan. “My son Cordell [Broadus] put me up on FaZe Clan,” he said. “He’s really tapped into gaming, Web3, culture, etc. and knew this would be something that I’d be into.” What do you think is next for FaZe? Let us know in the comments below.
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.
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.
For Resident Evil fans, this has been long awaited. As of recent years, Capcom have put out two other remakes of older games, both being well received and quite enjoyable to playthrough. Key moments from the originals are kept in the game, but graphics, mechanics, and other elements receive an upgrade. Therefore, when they announced the fourth installment was getting a remake, fans couldn’t be more excited.
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.
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.
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.
With a May 12th release date, Zelda fans won’t have to wait too much longer to play Tears Of The Kingdom. It doesn’t appear much is known about the upcoming Nintendo game. However, this won’t stop fans of the series from being ecstatic for what is to come in May. As a Nintendo Switch exclusive, it is a must have.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Really curious what a PS5 Pro would be priced at and how Sony would market it. Ray Tracing hasn’t really caught on that well and it is an apparent problem the Pro is looking to solve. pic.twitter.com/4wlVzINg01
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.
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.
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.”
Dr. Dre’s stolen phone is the talk of the town. Word is the device is loaded with never-before-heard music.
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.
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.
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.
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Dragon Quest (@trsrpc) 
