Def Jam Interactive
has partnered once again with Electronic Arts to develop another Hip-Hop-oriented
video game, Def Jam: Icon, EA announced Wednesday (Oct. 18). The
game allows users to "live out the life of a Hip-Hop mogul, going from rags
to riches," as players assume the role of top celebrity rappers like Ludacris,
T.I. and Big Boi."We
are changing the way fighting games are played," said Kudo Tsunoda, executive
producer and general manager of EA Chicago. "We are completely innovating
the role of the environments in the games, moving from the typical lifeless arenas
the Hip-Hop celebrities are fighting in, to environments that play an instrumental
part in the fight where they will react to the music and interact with both characters
like a third fighter"The
game will be available for both PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles. According
to EA, Def Jam: Icon will integrate Hip-Hop into every aspect of the game,
with fighting that incorporates both style and rhythm. The
in-game soundtrack is intended to affect how players fight in each venue, while
other environmental hazards will play a driving force in the player staying alive.Unique
fighting gameplay controls have been added to Def Jam: Icon. These new
controls simulate the experience of actually being in combat, but with the styles
of the artists’ personalities. "We
have worked very closely with the team to ensure that authentic Hip-Hop culture
and lifestyle permeates through every part of the product," said Lauren Wirtzer,VP
Marketing, Def Jam Enterprises. "Def Jam: Icon will guarantee the
ultimate combination of a real Hip-Hop experience and revolutionary fighting gameplay."
Def
Jam: Icon
is scheduled for release in March 2007.