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Madden NFL 25 Soundtrack Brings the Heat with Star-Studded Lineup

August 9, 2024 by newhiphopnews

In a move driven by positive energy and bold swagger, the Madden NFL 25 soundtrack delivers a non-stop party powered by blockbuster tracks from some of the biggest and best-known artists in music today. Whether tailgating in the parking lot, rocking in the stadium, warming up on the field, or hanging with friends in front of the TV, these are the bangers that bring a ’20 minutes till kick-off’ vibe all season long.

This year’s soundtrack boasts tracks from superstars like Eminem, Doja Cat, LL Cool J, GloRilla, Big Sean, ScHoolboy Q, and Vince Staples. Triumphant crossover pairings include Quavo and Lenny Kravitz with their track “Fly,” which launches in the Madden NFL 25 commercial, and Camila Cabello featuring Lil Nas X. The soundtrack also features viral hits from Tommy Richman and Flo Milli, along with an electrifying international flavor from artists like Little Simz, DJ Bliss, Nezi Momodu, and Shenseea featuring Coi Leray.

The epic collaborations continue with Snoop Dogg featuring Dr. Dre and Alus, Denzel Curry featuring Armani White, BLK ODYSSY and Wiz Khalifa, and Doechii featuring JT.

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NBA 2K25 Unveils ProPLAY™-Powered Gameplay Enhancements Ahead of September Launch

August 3, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Today, 2K revealed exciting new gameplay enhancements for NBA 2K25, driven by the innovative ProPLAY technology. The enhancements promise to deliver the most realistic basketball gaming experience yet, translating authentic NBA movements directly into the game.

Gameplay Innovations Powered by ProPLAY: NBA 2K25 features over 9,000 new animations, including 1,500 dribbling animations and 1,100 signature shot animations from NBA players of the 2023-24 season. The new dribble engine and signature motion styles ensure a true-to-life gaming experience.

Offensive and Defensive Upgrades: Players will enjoy advanced features like Pro Stick Rhythm Shooting, Custom Visual Cues, and Shot Timing Profiles. The game introduces Shot Canceling and Signature Go-To Shots, enhancing offensive creativity. On defense, a new cutoff system and updated Contest System offer dynamic, realistic defensive play.

AI Gameplay Enhancements: Improved AI gameplay, with updates to court spacing, offense, defense, coaching, and difficulty levels, ensures a balanced and challenging experience across all platforms.

Learn 2K Mode: This new feature helps players master both basic and advanced moves through mini-games, drills, and practice scenarios, making the game more accessible to all players.

Early Tip-Off: NBA 2K25 launches worldwide on September 6 for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Players who pre-order can access the game early from September 4. For more details, visit the NBA 2K25 official website.

Stay tuned for more announcements and in-depth features in the coming weeks.

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Actors Strike To Stop AI Takeover in Video Games

August 2, 2024 by newhiphopnews

By: Zachary Abbott

With the growth of AI in nearly every industry, workers have begun taking up arms to protect their jobs from the encroachment of AI replacements. In 2023, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers of Guild of America (WGA) both went on strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMTP) after strikes that were some of the longest held in the film and TV industry, SAG-AFTRA and the WGA were able to obtain protections for their members against use of AI without consent or compensation.

This dispute has arisen between video game developers and the actors who provide the voices and images for their video game characters. Effective July 26th, Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) members who perform in video games have gone on strike against video game companies signed onto the Interactive Media Agreement. After a year and a half of negotiations over the Interactive Media Agreement, the video game companies still refuse to affirm outright that video game voice actors will be granted rights over how their voice, image, and work are used in training AI or creating AI-generated copies.

These negotiations began in October 2022, and while agreement has been reached on most other important points, AI protections have split the two sides. SAG-AFTRA asks that any game looking to employ SAG-AFTRA talent be signed onto the new Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement and the Interim Interactive Media Agreement or the Interim Interactive Localization Agreement. These agreements aim to give SAG-AFTRA members the right of consent to use their faces, voices, and bodies by AI, which are rights that performers in film and TV already have. Without these protections, video game companies could use AI to replicate performers without compensation or consent and would put them out of work. These Agreements force video game companies to be upfront about their intentions and obtain the consent of actors they seek to replicate through AI.

The strike was authorized on September 24th, 2023, with a 98.32% yes vote. Similar strikes in the industry have benefitted entertainers and creatives, so SAG-AFTRA feels confident that it can ultimately achieve the same results. That said, the strike will be an uphill battle, with SAG-AFTRA members striking against the video game industry titans, including divisions of Activision, EA, Insomniac, Warner Brothers, and Disney.

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Natasha Cloud and Partners Launch Initiative to Support Phoenix Youth with Basketball Equipment and Financial Aid

July 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Natasha Cloud, star guard for the Phoenix Mercury, has launched a significant initiative to empower underserved communities in Phoenix. Partnering with 2K Foundations, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), and OneTeam Partners, Cloud’s project focuses on donating essential basketball equipment and providing financial support to four Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley (BGCAZ) branches.

The kickoff event occurred on July 20 at the Jerry Colangelo Branch in the Maryvale neighborhood during the WNBA All-Star Weekend. Over 150 children and their families enjoyed a day filled with music, food, and basketball activities. Natasha Cloud appeared surprisedly, engaging with the kids and presenting the new equipment.

“Kids have the power to change the world, and it’s crucial that we give them the resources, opportunities, and guidance they need to harness their power, intelligence, and voice,” said Natasha Cloud. “Providing access to basketball is essential because it teaches them teamwork, discipline, and resilience. But this initiative goes beyond the game; it’s about investing in these kids’ futures and showing them that they matter. I’m incredibly proud that the WNBPA and I have partnered with 2K Foundations to bring these resources to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.”

The initiative benefits the Jerry Colangelo Branch and three other BGCAZ locations: the Thunderbirds Branch in Guadalupe, which serves Native American and Hispanic communities; the I.G. Homes Branch in downtown Phoenix; and the UMOM Branch, which supports families in transitional housing and emphasizes music, arts, and sports.

Cloud’s dedication to activism and community support, particularly regarding racial inequality and LGBTQ+ rights, is reflected in this effort. This project aims to uplift the youth and foster positive development in Phoenix by addressing the lack of recreational facilities and providing crucial resources.

2K Foundations, BGCAZ, and OneTeam Partners collectively strive to enrich local communities through sports clinics, development programs, and facility improvements, impacting youth engagement and well-being.

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Natasha Cloud and Partners Launch Initiative to Support Phoenix Youth with Basketball Equipment and Financial Aid

July 24, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The post Natasha Cloud and Partners Launch Initiative to Support Phoenix Youth with Basketball Equipment and Financial Aid first appeared on The Source.

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Drake Fan Creates ‘Family Matters’ Online Video Game; Players Can Keep Grammy Away From a Digital Kendrick

July 23, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Ayo, fans are wild. Drake fans to be exact. ICYMI, earlier this month, Kendrick Lamar fans kept up the same energy with the Compton rapper’s Drake feud by launching an online video game inspired by the epic chart topping diss track “Not Like Us.”

The game, was reminiscent of the piñata scene from the song’s visual – basically a generic twist on the classic whack-a-mole, featuring OVO owls as targets. Gotcha. Kill owls. Call PETA. Kidding.

In response to that gamer trolling, a Drake enthusiast created *Family Matters: The Game*, which can be played online. Check it out: https://playfamilymatters.com

Get this, when you start the game, and a lo-fi Family Matters beat drops, an on-screen message reads:

“Kendrick just opened his mouth, someone go feed him a Grammy right now. Tap the Grammy to feed Kenny. Don’t miss or he’ll be sad.”

Then gameplay involves a moving arrow that indicates where the Grammy will be thrown when you click or tap, while a pixelated Kendrick Lamar moves side-to-side.

Low key genius.

If you miss, Lamar’s character grimaces, makes a sad sound, and a tear rolls down his face.

Super petty.

Obviously, te game’s theme draws from Drake’s lyric in “Family Matters,” where he raps, “Kendrick just opened his mouth, someone go hand him a Grammy right now.”

LOL Ya’ll got too much time on your hands!

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NBA 2K25 Debuts Dual Global Cover Featuring Jayson Tatum and A’Ja Wilson

July 10, 2024 by newhiphopnews

NBA 2K25 will launch worldwide on September 6, featuring five-time NBA All-Star and Boston Celtics Forward Jayson Tatum and Las Vegas Aces Forward A’ja Wilson as dual cover athletes for the All-Star Edition. This marks the first time both NBA and WNBA players are featured on the same cover. The game will be available on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

Tatum will grace the Standard Edition cover, while Wilson will appear on the WNBA Edition, a GameStop exclusive in the US and Canada. NBA legend Vince Carter will be on the Hall of Fame Edition cover.

“It’s an honor to be named a cover athlete for NBA 2K25,” said Jayson Tatum. “I’ve been playing NBA 2K since I was a kid and it’s been a dream to one day be on the cover. Even after coming off an NBA Championship, it’s humbling to see this come to life.”

“Being featured on the NBA 2K25 cover is a big moment for me and a testament to the ever-growing fandom of the WNBA,” said A’ja Wilson. “Seeing more and more WNBA athletes scanned into NBA 2K25 to best capture the style and confidence of the league has been empowering, and I can’t wait for fans to experience it in-game.”

“Between the honors NBA 2K and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame have bestowed upon me, this year is an unforgettable one, making me pause with gratitude at my career,” said Vince Carter. “Being named a cover athlete would have always been a special moment for me, but it is a particular honor to be on the cover of the NBA 2K25 Hall of Fame Edition.”

NBA 2K25 promises enhanced realism with ProPLAYTM technology on New-Gen platforms and, for the first time, on PC. The game introduces new MyTEAM modes, an added era in MyNBA, a compact City, and a new Neighborhood metropolis on Current-Gen.

“In a year that showcases competition at the highest level – and in a play style that is uniquely one’s own – we’re thrilled to share Jayson, A’ja and Vince as the NBA 2K25 cover athletes” said Greg Thomas, President at Visual Concepts. “The development team has delivered another innovative experience for basketball lovers, setting up NBA 2K25 to be the next icon in this long-standing dynasty.”

The game will be available in four editions: Standard ($69.99), WNBA ($69.99), All-Star ($99.99), and Hall of Fame ($149.99), which includes a 12-month NBA League Pass subscription. Pre-orders are now open.

NBA 2K25 is developed by Visual Concepts and rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. For more details, visit the official NBA 2K25 website and follow NBA 2K on social media.

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2K Announces ‘NBA 2K24’ Season 8 with Fresh Content and Rewards

June 27, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Today, 2K announced that NBA 2K24 Season 8 will launch on Friday, June 28, bringing new content and rewards to MyCAREER, MyTEAM, The W, and the Season Pass*. With the Boston Celtics celebrating their 2024 NBA Championship, it’s the perfect time for players to dive into the new season.

In NBA 2K24 Season 8, New York Liberty Guard and NBA 2K24 WNBA Edition cover athlete Sabrina Ionescu will inspire players to earn XP and all-new thematic rewards. Exciting events will occur in The City and The Neighborhood, showcasing the WNBA season and Team USA.

MyCAREER allows players to display their team spirit with Team USA rewards, including new vehicles, outfits, and consumables. This season’s rewards include a Level 15 Team USA Outfit, Level 20 Mascot, Level 25 Anime Hairstyle, Level 29 GOAT Mascot (Current Gen), Level 30 4 Seater Golf Cart, Level 36 Season 8 Racing Suit, and Level 39 Orange Man Suit.

MyTEAM Season 8 introduces Team USA Invincible MyTEAM cards featuring current and historic players. Rewards include a Level 1 100 OVR Dennis Rodman, a Level 10 Dark Matter Marcus Smart, a Level 20 Dark Matter Rashard Lewis, a Level 25 Dark Matter Jaren Jackson Jr., a Level 35 100 OVR Jerry Stackhouse, a Level 37 100 OVR Wheel Spin for another 100 OVR player, and a Level 40 G.O.A.T. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

The W Online* builds excitement for the WNBA All-Star Game in July with rewards like new Jersey and Shoe cards, Seasonal Perks, and boosts.

The Season Pass offers 40 additional premium rewards, including the Level 1 Ski Mask, Level 15 Oversized Hoodie, Level 36 Animated Fire Shorts, Level 39 Green Alien Suit, and a Level 40 Pro Pass G.O.A.T. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar MyTEAM card. Players who purchase the Season 8 Pro Pass will also receive bonuses and future rewards in NBA 2K25.

For more details on NBA 2K24 Season 8, check out the latest Courtside Report. NBA 2K24 is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC platforms. Visit the official website for more information.

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WWE 2K24 Launches New Pack with Post Malone & Friends

June 26, 2024 by newhiphopnews

For fans who enjoy the many connections between WWE and the wider world of entertainment and pop culture, the WWE® 2K24 Post Malone & Friends Pack, available today, will be music to their ears. 9x RIAA headlines the pack diamond-certified, GRAMMY® Award-nominated phenomenon, and avowed fan of both WWE and the WWE 2K franchise, Post Malone.

As the Executive Soundtrack Producer for WWE 2K24, the highest-rated console game in WWE 2K franchise history, Post Malone contributed two of his own songs and ten other selections to an eclectic soundtrack that spans an array of genres. His in-game character is decked out in gear of his design and enters the ring to “Gun Under The Gun (MFG),” an original track recorded specifically for WWE 2K24 by Los Angeles-based rock phenoms Militarie Gun.

Joining Post Malone in the Post Malone & Friends Pack are an array of Legends with music connections, including Sensational Sherri, The Headbangers, The Honky Tonk Man, and Manager Jimmy Hart. WWE Hall of Famer Sensational Sherri, a former WWE Women’s Champion, was perhaps best known as the villainous manager of “Macho Man” Randy Savage, “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase, and “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels, even providing vocals for the original version of his entrance theme, “Sexy Boy.” The heavy metal-themed tag team duo of Mosh and Thrasher, collectively known as The Headbangers, brought their dance moves and attitudes straight from the mosh pit and into the late 90s WWE ring, capturing the WWE Tag Team Championship, while Thrasher also held the WWE Hardcore Championship. Finally, The Honky Tonk Man brings his swiveling hips and sideburns to the WWE 2K24 ring, accompanied by Manager “Mouth of the South” Jimmy Hart, whose signature megaphone will also be available as a usable foreign object. Boasting the second-longest WWE Intercontinental Championship reign in history at 454 days, The Honky Tonk Man was a force to be reckoned with Hart in his corner, always ready to distract referees and opponents. These Superstars bring 45 new moves and taunts into the game, which can also be used for custom Superstars in the creation suite. Each playable Superstar and Post Malone also comes with their own MyFACTION card. The Post Malone & Friends Pack is available for individual purchase or as part of Season Pass, which is included in the Deluxe Edition and Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition of WWE 2K24. The previously announced ECW Punk Pack is also available now, featuring “The Best in the World” CM Punk and an array of hardcore ECW Legends.

Coming this month to WWE 2K24’s MyFACTION game mode is a concept sure to please nostalgic WWE gamers. The new Demastered Series features a collection of Persona Cards that unlock playable Superstars across all game modes, each designed to resemble character models from previous video game console generations. The collection includes new cards for Roman Reigns, Bianca Belair, Xavier Woods, Raquel Rodriguez, and more. Several new Live Events offering unique earnable rewards, including a Greg Miller ’24 Manager card, will also be available. Also coming later in the month will be the new Money in the Bank MyFACTION collection, as well as a Money in the Bank locker code MITBBRIEFCASE, active now through July 13, 2024, which will be available to all players and will award cards of Bayley and Austin Theory, as well as a bonus card pack and Free Agent card.

The WWE 2K24 Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition, and Forty Years of WrestleMania Edition will all be 34% off on Steam from June 27 through July 11, 2024.

For more information on WWE 2K24, visit the game’s official website, become a fan on Facebook, follow the game on TikTok, X, and Instagram, and subscribe on YouTube. Official campaign hashtags are #WWE2K24 and #FinishYourStory.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Christian McCaffrey Graces Cover of EA SPORTS™ Madden NFL 25

June 12, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) and EA SPORTS have unveiled San Francisco 49ers superstar Christian McCaffrey as the cover athlete for the all-new EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25, launching worldwide on August 16. McCaffrey, the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, led the 49ers to Super Bowl LVIII last season, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic players with 339 total touches, 2,023 scrimmage yards, and 21 total touchdowns.

“Christian McCaffrey is a human highlight reel on NFL Sundays and our players love his dynamic abilities in Madden NFL, scoring more than 450 million touchdowns with him last year and making him the most popular running back in Madden NFL 24,” said Mike Mahar, Senior Production Director, Madden NFL. “Christian’s electrifying, dynamic and physical play style perfectly represents the gameplay innovations we’re bringing to Madden NFL 25 and made him the ideal fit for this year’s cover.”

The full feature set for Madden NFL 25 on PlayStation® 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC will include the next level of FieldSENSE, new commentary, updated presentation, and enhancements across Franchise and other modes. These details will be announced soon. The game will be available on multiple platforms including Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation®5, Xbox One, PlayStation® 4, and PC via EA app for Windows, Steam®, and Epic Games Store.

“To be on the cover of Madden NFL is a career achievement and an honor I share with all of my teammates, coaches and 49er Faithful who have helped make it possible,” said McCaffrey. “I’m pumped to get back on the field this year to give Madden players more reasons to keep scoring touchdowns with me in Madden NFL 25.”

Fans can pre-order the Madden NFL 25 Deluxe Edition* today, which includes perks like 3-day early access and 4600 Madden Points. The EA SPORTS MVP Bundle** offers the deluxe editions of EA SPORTS College Football 25 and Madden NFL 25, both with 3-day early access and additional benefits. EA Play† members will also get a 10-hour early access trial and monthly in-game rewards.

Stay updated on the latest Madden NFL 25 news by visiting the Madden NFL website and following their social media pages on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. Madden NFL 25 is developed by EA SPORTS in Orlando, Florida, and Madrid, Spain.

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