The effect of hip-hop deeply transcends into the entertainment world. From cool art to movies, the impact of hip-hop can’t be understated. One of the areas this genre of music has greatly influenced is video gaming.
Hip-hop was first integrated into gaming back in the mid-90s. Two of the earliest games featuring hip-hop are PaRappa the Rapper and Rap Jam: Volume One, released on the Super Nintendo. Modern gambling platforms like the casino ohne OASIS are also incorporating hip-hop elements.
Hip-Hop Fashion in Video Game Avatars
Game avatars are the link between the visual and interactive elements and the players’ emotions. That is why modern sites, including non GamStop Casinos, feature games like slots with personalised avatars. Many games, including NBA 2K, allow players to dress up their characters in hip-hop-inspired attire, from oversized streetwear to luxury brands.
In NBA 2K, gamers can purchase outfits such as sneaker brands and Swags, an in-game clothing store with streetwear style. Video games also collaborate with artists and fashion houses. For example, NBA2K has collaborated with:
- Jay-Z
- Lil Wayne
- Kodak Black
- J Cole
- Drake
- Lil Uzi Vert
In J. Cole’s special cover of NBA 2K23, he even teased the RS-Dreamer sneakers. We can’t forget GTA when discussing hip-hop fashion and video games. GTA has plenty of hip-hop references, especially how characters dress in cities like Miami, New York and San Francisco. Another example is Fortnite, which partners with hip-hop artists. Through these collaborations, the game introduces locations and other items featuring the artists’ styles.
Hip-Hop Tracks in the Gaming World
We can all agree that music can break or make a video game. Hip hop influences in-game video environments through music, soundtracks and themed events. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is a good example. The soundtrack features different hip-hop tracks on Radio Los Santos and Playback FM, which sets the mood. Def Jam: Fight for NY features hip-hop in the fight format.
In open-world games like Def Jam: Fight for NY, there is even a hip-hop-themed radio station. Players can tune in to different music and beats, which take the gameplay to the next level.
Additionally, some video game soundtracks are adapted from former hits. NBA 2K24’s soundtrack is the popular hit “In Ha Mood” by Ice Spice. The hip-hop artists’ songs are also included in Fortnite and Just Dance+.
The same applies to DLCs. There are several rap-themed DLCs which include some aspects of hip-hop culture. For instance, in Street Fight 6, which has some downloadable content, the theme song “Not on the Sidelines” features rappers.
Street Culture Appeal in Online Gaming and Virtual Worlds
Through hip-hop, online platforms allow players to project their real-world cultural identity. Hip-hop game emotes, especially in Fortnite, allow players to showcase their dance moves. Like Snoop Dogg’s iconic walk featuring the lyrics “drop it like it’s hot”. Drake’s tootsie slide was added in Fortnite in 2020. Other rappers with emotes are Eminem and Travis Scott.
This allows players to emulate trends in the game, which ultimately makes virtual spaces more fun. The emotes can be purchased or earned in the game, which helps in creating more engaging experiences.
Hip-hop influence is also seen in player communities. The gaming and hip-hop music share a similar audience. Therefore, the two industries have collaborated to build larger player communities.
Hip-Hop Artist Collaborations and Limited Drops in Gaming
Some people might argue that hip-hop artists have taken over the gaming scene since the early 2000s. Big platforms like PlayStation Network and Super Nintendo have collaborated with hip-hop artists to bring captivating games.
50 Cent: Bulletproof, inspired by the rapper, was released in 2005 for PlayStation and Xbox. In the game, 50 Cent works with a corrupt cop who is none other than Eminem. The FPS, later on, had a portable version and a sequel, 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand, in 2009. On the other hand, Fortnite has collaborated with Dr. Dre, Eminem, Nipsey Hussle, Rick Ross and Schoolboy Q. These are just a few names, but the list is endless.
Hip-hop artists also collaborate with big gaming brands to release in-game items and virtual merchandise. For instance, the Travis Scott x Fortnite skin and other cosmetic items from Astroworld. Another example is the Snoop Dogg x Call of Duty Bundle, which includes skins, a finishing move and a blueprint.
Real brands are also not left behind. Designers like Louis Vuitton have launched fashion brands in video games like League of Legends. This shows how much the virtual and real worlds are closely merging.
Conclusion
Hip-hop has been and will continue to influence the gaming scene for decades to come. The music style adds more groove to the gaming scene. It is exciting to imagine what the future holds.