Much like sports, video games have become more and more tied to hip-hop in recent years. ESPN’s NBA 2K5 is just another example. In the past games have featured maybe 10 songs at most from select emcees, but NBA 2K5 takes it up a notch with 36 licensed songs to appear.
Among those featured on the game’s soundtrack are The Roots, Madlib, Skillz, Del, Aesop Rock, Aceyalone, and Truck & Mack. Selected songs have been taken from Okayplayer compilation “True Notes Vol. 1.” There will be a number of songs that will be custom made for the game. Selected chain stores will include the soundtrack free with the purchase of the game, and there are already plans for a 2K5 tour featuring some of the contributing artists.
Taking it a step further, Del and Aesop Rock will actually be hidden characters in the game. “I’ve always loved gaming, so it’s only natural to be a part of ‘ESPN NBA 2K5’ as a character in the game. I’ve even got my own dream team,” Del said. “It’s also a kick to provide some of the soundtrack beats and to work together on the coming tour.”
