Remember the fighting game, Shaq Fu, that was released in 1994 and considered the worst game of all time in that genre? Now former NBA star Shaquille O'Neal is looking for redemption and has teamed up with developer Big Deez Productions to launch a follow-up to the game dubbed "Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn."
On Thursday, March 6, O'Neal and the developers Big Deez Productions launched a crowd funding campaign on Indiegogo to make the follow-up title and are looking to raise $450,000.
"We are in partnership with the man, Shaquille O'Neal, an avid gamer himself. We got tired of bowing to the monolithic men with the money and wanted to work with people who care about the quality of the product," say Big Deez Productions, the developers. "We are people with passion that intend to make solid, addictive, kick ass games, without a whiff of BS."
O'Neal is also quoted in the campaign video of the game, acknowledging the disaster that was the original Shaq Fu.
"Alright, I admit it. The first Shaq Fu was [thumbs-down motion] terrible [stabs self with fake sword]. Wait until you see the graphics on this one. I'm back," says O'Neal.
The original Shaq Fu was released by Electronic arts, but unlike its predecessor, "Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn" will be a "Streets of Rage meets Street Fighter meets Devil May Cry" style game.
"It's a modern day take on the classic beat 'em up," per the developers.
"Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn" will revolve around gamers playing as O'Neal and taking on a wide variety of enemies, with over hundred moves at their disposal along with weapons. The soundtrack of the game will be created by Steve Molitz and feature remixed versions of O'Neal's songs.
"The graphics, animation and storyline are definitely going to be top of the line," per O'Neal.
So what's in it for funders you ask? Ten lucky winners will receive a size 22 original vintage Reebok Shaqnosis sneaker from O'Neal , along with a letter of authenticity, provided you pledge $3000.
Funders who donate $15 will get a copy of the game, whereas those who donate more will get bigger prizes and opportunities, e.g. $400 snags you an admission to the launch party, whereas a $600 donation will get O'Neal to record an outgoing voicemail message. Pledging $15,000 gets you lunch and a pick-up basketball game at O'Neal's house.
To pledge for the campaign and to learn moreabout what's on offer go to Indiegogo. Only 45 days remain for you to contribute!
