Iconic Black Video Game Characters

 

It's February, while Black History is 365 days a year. February is the month where it's highlighted and honored a bit more. I partake in the celebrations with my blogs trying to put my own little spin on things, this year I decided to focus on Black characters in video games.

Much like other genres, Black main characters in video games are still a work in progress. There are some instrumental Black characters in the medium. However, that is still few and far between. I've compiled five Black main characters from video games, who many may consider legendary video game characters. This list isn't a ranking per say, just a list.

Alyx Vance

                                

Alyx Vance debuted in 2004's Half-Life 2 as a Non-Playable Character (NPC). She appears in subsequent games in the franchise such as Half-Life Episode One and Episode Two. She was the main character in the virtual reality game, Half-Life: Alyx. The funny thing is other than the latter game she is a supporting character in the series helping main character Gordon Freeman in his missions, but is well-revered. 

Alyx is a very tech savvy prominent figure in the fight against The Combine, the alien empire ruling over humans. Computer skills aren't her only traits as she can fight and use weapons with the best of them. She is also an outgoing wise-cracking personality, which in the world of video games is not common for a Black female character. Which makes her so special in the medium. 

Jax

The Character of Jax Briggs debuted in 1993's Mortal Kombat II searching for his partner Sonya Blade. Jax is a U.S. Special Forces soldier, identified by his bionic arms which give him super strength that maybe only matched by the likes of a Superman or Thor. Besides his brute strength granted to him by his arms he also fights in the styles of Judo and Muy Thai. He has appeared in eleven Mortal Kombat game series of course with redesigns throughout the years. He has been a fan favorite over the years when it comes to selecting a fighter in the games.

Outside of the game realm, he has been portrayed in all three live action Mortal Kombat films. Mortal Kombat (1995), Mortal Kombat Annihilation (1997) played by Lynn Red Williams. Michael Jai White played him in the short-film Mortal Kombat: Rebirth (2010) and the follow up series Mortal Kombat: Legacy (2011). He most recently was played by Mechad Brooks in 2021's Mortal Kombat film.

CJ 

Carl Johnson also known as CJ, just a kid from the mean streets of Los Santos and a member of the Grove Street gang. Coming back home to Los Santos from Liberty City, after the death of his mother. CJ finds a brand new world from the one he left. CJ partook in criminal elements, but he was a good guy who at times displayed a conscience and confliction about his deeds. But make no mistake he wasn't a pushover. 

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas was a game changer on PS2 for it's vast open world expansion across the great state of San Andreas, and the ability to customize CJ's wardrobe and look throughout the game. I distinctly remember dressing CJ in all black with a gold chain and a bucket hat cruising around in his black and gold low rider. 

As is customary in the GTA world CJ quickly was sprung from his neighborhood all across the glitz of Las Venturas and the quirks of San Fiero. CJ came across all facets of the criminal underworld and defeated them all to make a good life for himself outside of Los Santos and the criminal element. 

Lincoln Clay 

Lincoln Clay is the protagonist in Mafia III (which by the way I think it's time for another game in the Mafia series). Lincoln is a Vietnam War vet who returns to his home of New Bordeaux (based on New Orleans). Much like depictions of heroes in movies, Lincoln just trying to find steady work get's caught up in the underworld. Soon he sets out to avenge some close friends and family lost to the mob, while building his own empire and dealing with racism.

Props to the creators of the game, because while Lincoln is a very calm but strong minded man. Who uses strategy and rationalizes things, he is also a conflicted man. Violent and suffering from ptsd which plays a part in his characterization while also shedding light on the struggles many military vets go through. Lincoln was not afraid to spring into action and bust some heads, while still having visions and flashbacks of the world he left behind overseas. Which should be examined more, but this isn't the blog for that.

Adam Hunter

The first Black character I can recall that was depicted in a video game. Adam Hunter was a former cop in the world of Streets Of Rage which was released in 1991, and one of the primary characters.  The older brother of Eddie "Skate" Hunter, Adam was all muscle in the world of the game.

Since this was an early 90's property, characterization wasn't really a huge deal back then. Much isn't known about Adam except his history as a cop, relation to Skate, and he could gorilla press slam an opponent like the best of them. In Streets Of Rage 4 he's been given a bit more character, he's honorable and he too is calm and collected but has no time for games.

Adam Hunter is one dude you would not want to mess with, if he was a real character. 

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Ten Things That Made Me Realize I'm Washed

 

There comes a time when we all realize we're not as hip as we use to be. I've been washed for a few years now, the closer I get to forty the more I realize how out of tune I am with certain things. While at the same thing appreciating the little things that really bring me join.

Here are a ten things that mame me realize I am officially washed.

10. Current Music

I have no idea who today's rappers are. When I think about it, I havent really been intuned with the music landscape since I turned 30. I know of a few rappers that todays young bulls listen to, but chances are I can't tell you an album or song of there's. When I do hear their music..I really dont know wtf they are talking about. Coming to this realization made me aware of why when I was in my 20's, older guys I knew that were in their late 20's/early 30's stayed in their era of music which was 90's and maybe early 2000's rap and left it at that.

9. Today's slang. 

I will admit I was a little slow to realize what no cap or cappin meant. That something slaps is the equivalent of something is hitting/the bomb which was the slang when I was coming up. I had to ask what the hell tweakin meant.

8. Gen-Z coworkers 

I work with a couple of gen-z'ers and they make me feel washed just about everyday. Referencing songs or movies and TV shows that aren't necessarily old, but they were just too young to appreciate when these items debuted.

Really stings when they don't get the joke or don't know a song. One of the most humbling experiences out there.

7. I need to bundle up

When I was in my 20's I could wear a hoodie in 20 degree weather and be absolutely fine. Now, if it's 35 degrees I need my coat zipped all the way up and a hat on my head. Gloves I honestly don't need unless I'm outside for an extended period of time.

6. I'm too old for this

I just turned 38 the end of January and find myself always saying what I'm too old for. Whether it's too much noise, unnecessary loud music, something I just don't feel like doing or don't want to be bothered with.

I'm quick to quip "I'm too old for this kind of shit."

5. 2 Hr movies are iffy

When I sit down to watch a new movie, if the Runtime is 2 hours or more. I may just have to revisit watching that movie. Especially if I start it after 9:00 pm, there is a strong possibility I'll fall asleep on the movie.

4. Love tending to my yard 

Right now I am anxiously anticipating the weather to break and spring to come. I have a list of outdoor to do list already made. I know where I need to reseed, what mulch I want. Should I put landscape rocks in a particular location?

When the weather is consistenly nice I find reasons to tend to the yard. It has become my sanctuary,even though cutting the grass every 2 weeks can kick rocks.

3. I enjoy the supermarket

Unless it is just super busy such as an upcoming holiday or I maybe pressed for time. I enjoy a casual stroll through supermarkets eyeing different products that I may try for a recipe. Or even better finding something on sale or meat marked down. I worked in a grocery store for ten years I know how to carefully analyze the marked down meat.

2. Home Stores brighten My Day

Strolling home stores brings me even more joy than the supermarket.  I love walking into Lowes and Home Depot and just looking at the tools, new grill I dont need. Appliances I know I won't buy or walk around the garden department.

Man walking into a HomeSense or Homegoods for some hidden gems just soothes my soul.

1. I love my couch

I've always been a homebody, but the older I get I appreciate it even more. My goal every weekend is to spend an significant amount of time on the couch doing absolutely nothing.

Even if I take a mid day nap on the couch I feel accomplished. Some weekends I never get to sit on the couch, other weekends I may get a hour or so. Then there are the weekends my dream is fulfilled and I'm on the couch for eternity. It's the personification of the simple things making one happy in life and I really appreciate it.

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It's Time To Remake American Ninja

 During the early 90's amidst the wave of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, 3 Ninjas, Surf Ninjas, and Power Rangers. I came across a series of B-movie action films centered on ninjas titled American Ninja. The series contained five films, but only four are really canon. With Michael Dudikoff and Sean Bradley being the respective star ninjas in films. The films contained cheesy dialogue, wooden acting, some spotty fight scenes, and ninjas dressed in attire other than black. Which as a kid really enticed me for some reason. The movies have been available on Tubi and Prime a lot within the past couple of years, flip flopping availability between the two services. 

I often turn them on before I go to bed when I just need something on the TV until I fall asleep. Watching them for what they are, I appreciate the films even more, and know a new generation is appreciating them as well.

All those factors combined with Amazon now owning MGM which has the rights to those films, and Amazon deciding to a remake of Road House releasing next month. I figured more than enough time has passed to grace fans with a remake of American Ninja. The films are martial art's action-oriented that do not require a lot of plot and I would assume not a lot of budget if they keep it simple. A young actor with martial arts training to help build it into a potential franchise. The movies are popular in the B-movie world, but there wouldn't be much blowback from fans disappointed a "classic" is being touched. It's perfect material for the straight to streaming world we live in now. 

The third film Blood Hunt just hit it's 35th anniversary, which should be a tall tale sign it's time to expand the way of the ninja for a new generation. I'm also ready for ninjas to gain popularity in film and TV again. I'm not asking for much here as a paying prime subscriber, just give us an updated version of a old favorite. Hopefully Amazon digs through the crates and find's the B-movie goldmine it's sitting on.

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5 Hidden Gem Black Romantic Comedies

 

It's that time again when love is in the air. Dudes that have been slacking all year go overboard, while everyone else either celebrates or says I love you and keep it moving. However you celebrate Valentine's Day with your significant other. You can never go wrong with a good movie to watch.

For every Boomerang, Love Jones, and Love & Basketball. There are a abundance of Black led romance films, that for whatever reason many haven't heard of or it just didn't get its due. With that, here are five hidden gem Black romance movies.

5. Strictly Business

I wrote a blog on this back in 2021 to celebrate the film's 30th anniversary. I'm adding it to this list because this is one film I will die on a hill trying to get people to see it.

It's a simple love story with partnerships, 90's vibes and New Jack Swing mixed in. Give a chance and you can learn some lessons in it.

4. The Perfect Match

Starring Cassie and Terrance J, The Perfect Match was released in 2016. Terrance J. plays Charlie a modern day noncommittal womanizer. He meets Eva played by Cassie a talented and mysterious singer/actress.

Soon enough they start kicking it and Charlie realizes he wants a bit more of their relationship. The film has a good message of not setting expectations when initially meeting and dating someone, and go with it to see how it goes.

3. Disappearing Acts

Disappearing Acts is a 2000 HBO original movie stars Sanaa Lathan and Wesley Snipes, based on a book from Terry McMillan. Sanaa and Wesleys characters are on opposite ends of the educational and career spectrum.

Upon starting a relationship they navigate bumps and bruises. Withholding information and encouraging one another. Find this hidden gem and give it a shot.

2. Sprung

Sprung is one of those films either you've seen it or you haven't. Talking to people it seems a lot more folks haven't seen than have. Released in 1997 the film follows Montel (Rusty Cundieff who also wrote and directed) and Brandy (Tisha Campbell Martin) who start a blossoming romance. While they're friends Clyde (Joe Torry) and Adina (Paula Jai Parker) who fell apart after a one night stand based on lies, seek out to sabotage the relationship as it gets serious.

The film is about true love overcoming obstalces near and far. It's by no means a laugh out loud or great film, but it has some endearing qualities about relationships.

1. Southside With You

Southside With You is a simple romantic film that was released in 2016 to substantial buzz. Set in 1989, the film follows future president Barack Obama played by Parker Sawyer, going on a first date with his future wife and first Lady Michelle Obama (Tika Sumpter).

Both are ambitious young individuals but that's not what the film focuses on. Instead it shows their walk through the park, museum visits and late night treat of ice cream. Simple things that build connections to lead to long term relationships. Even with the buzz, the film wasn't a box office hit or even a cult classic afterwards. It has a message about seeing the potential in someone even if they aren't there yet.

Watch the movie you may learn a thing or two.

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M.C. Hammer: Rap's First Pop Star

 

Two things sparked this article, first watching peacocks Run-DMC documentary King's From Queens. Another spark I was randomly YouTubing old Super Bowl commercials and revisited M.C. Hammer's Cheetos popcorn commercial for the 2020 Super Bowl. The ad used nostalgia to tap into folks trying out a new product, but it led me down a Hammer rabbit hole.

I came to the conclusion M.C. Hammer regardless of how people feel about his rapping skills, or whatever else that led to the rap industry turning against him. Was Hip-Hop's first real pop star. Sure Run-DMC were the first cross-over stars due to their collaboration with Aerosmith on Walk This Way. But Hammer took what they did and ran off with it. His album Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em went diamond (10 million copies sold.)

He was an amazing showman with his high energy footwork that was James Brown inspired. To my knowledge, he was one of the first hip hop stars that truly believed in a full production for his concerts. Lights all over the stage, full band with backup singers and back up dancers. Along with his clean image we soon saw Hammer everywhere.

He hosted Saturday Night Live in 1991 to help promote the Addams Family movie, which he had the lead single on. Made guest appearances on sitcoms such as Amen and Out All Night. Not stopping with guest appearances, he was all on TV screens with endorsements.

Pepsi commercials , Taco Bell commercial , a sponsorship with British Knight sneakers complete with an ad. A few KFC commercials one of which Paul Mooney famously ripped on. It didn't stop there though with Hammer.

He had his own Saturday Morning cartoon Hammerman. Which ran for a season on ABC in 1991. And had lunchboxes released in conjunction with the show. There was even M.C. Hammer dolls made by Mattel, which are probably a fortune now if someone still has one in its original packaging. I'm honestly surprised he didn't have a video game similiar to Michael Jackson's  Moonwalker on Sega with his likeness.

We can't forget his trademark pants that were synonymous with him. That in itself was a marketing tool. From 1990 to probably 1992 Hammer was everywhere. While he may have mismanaged his money, and gotta ridiculed for it. He paved the way for other rappers to get money in various ways. 

Come on. Would artist like Snoop Dogg, Megan The Stallion or Drake have some of the endorsements they've had if not for Hammer? Following the Run DMC documentary, we need a true M.C. Hammer documentary.  It's time Hammer is properly given his flowers for his contributions to hip hop. Acknowledging him as the first real rock star of rap is a step in the right direction.

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Hollywood Needs To Adjust Release Schedule

 I celebrated another year around the sun the end of last month. One issue I have every year is exactly what to do on my birthday? Unlike folks born in warmer months, my options are really limited if I'm not going on vacation. Then I looked into social events like axe throwing, wreck rooms, and bowling but looking at the cost compared to time spent participating in one of these activities. I didn't find it worth it, so I looked at old faithful the movie theaters.

The only thing playing that I kind of had a passing interest in was the Mean Girls remake. Now, of course inventory is low on movie releases due to the respective 148 writers strike and 118 day actors strike last year. However, it got me thinking about movies released in January.

Typically January is usually a dumping ground of movies that studios aren't really sure what to do with. If a movie was released in December of the previous year to generate some Oscar buzz. The studios ride that out while releasing throw away films.

In recent years though studios have started to release bigger films on MLK weekend. Bad Boys For Life became the highest grossing movie released in January when it debuted in 2020.

The Blockbuster movie season is from late April to mid August.  I think it's time Hollywood starts thinking outside the box and release a "blockbuster" film or two during January. For one with covid and then the writers and actors strike, movie theaters have been taking a hell of a one-two punch in recent years. They need more quality films that bring audiences to the theaters and not just in the condensed months towards the middle and end of the year.

Second, to be honest a lot of blockbuster films haven't really been blockbustering. For example Fast X and The Flash are blockbuster films released last summer that were disappointing. Did they really need to be released when they did? Or could they have been released earlier in the year when people are content starved and negative word of mouth may not have played a part and hit them so hard.

Lastly, with the advancement of streaming and audience perception that going to the theaters is no longer required. Studios and theaters need to combat that perception year round and emphasize there is nothing like seeing a movie in theaters for the first time.

The best way to do that? Give people reasons to see movies in theaters all year long. For the right film people will turn out, for instance when Black Panther debuted in February of 2018.

 Now, I can understand hesitation from theaters to sink alot of money into releasing a movie in January with weather concerns. One ssnowstorm or harsh cold streak on the east coast and Midwest would derail the box office take for those films.

But we're in a new time that requires new ways of doing things. There are a lot of jobs dependent on those industries and they need to be creative with how they survive. And with so much reaching for consumers wallets and attention, switching things up and experimenting is always a good idea in my book.

For someone like myself who enjoys the movie going experience, I wouldn't mind making a birthday celebration out of seeing a new must see release every year. Here's to hoping Hollywood takes heed.

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Ten Favorite Bobby Brown Songs

 Bobby Brown is undoubtedly the king of the stage. Watching clips from his heyday he had stage prescence, charisma and the moves. We can't forget the moves as he made his foot work light work. I've seen him twice with New Edition and saw him last month perform solo for the first time, and while he can't dance like he use to. He still is one of the coldest ever to grace the stage.

 Watching him perform you can definitely tell Usher and Chris Brown were inspired by him. With both giving him his flowers in recent years. Its no doubt in my mind if he didnt have his demons and consistently made quality albums. He would be in the convo as an all-time great. Hell he may have performed at a super bowl.

He dropped four solo albums in his 40 year career, while everyone knows Don't Be Cruel and Bobby dont sleep on his first album King Of The Stage. 

I am a big New Edition and Bobby Brown fan and figured since it's the king's bday  I'd share 10 of my favorite Bobby Brown songs.

10. Humpin' Around

The lead single off his 1992 Bobby album, the song is high energy with a heavy bass and drum influence. The brilliant thing about the song is that you are so busy you probably miss the meaning of the song. The song is about one partner in a relationship suspecting the other is cheating. While the accused is telling them pump your breaks.

The music video involves a lot of dancing and I won't lie when that song comes on I do my fair share. Especially when I convince myself I can dance to it and burn some calories.

9. My Prerogative

My Prerogative is really about blocking out the noise, living life and doing what you makes you happen. Bobby has said it is his favorite song he's ever done, and knowing what his life was like when he made the Don't Be Cruel album was made. I can totally see where he's coming from, for me though it's a cool Bobby B. song but nowhere near a top tier favorite.

8. Rock Wit'cha

Bobby along with Babyface who produced the song, had to show folks he had range. Which he display's in the song, it's a totally 80's song. Soft and sensual, Bobby let's the lady in his life know he's down to party. The backing instruments and the fade out of the chorus repeating "I want to Rock" just give's this song the chef's kiss.

7. Good Enough

Following up on showing range, Bobby let Babyface produce another hit for him on this track. This could be a sequel to Rock Wit'cha in my opinion. On the previous song, he just wanted to party all night, on this one he confesses if he's not up to par in many ways. He will work as hard a possible to make things right.

The drum heavy set helps drive home the tropical feeling of the song as well.

6. I'll Be Good

I first heard this song on an episode of 227 that Bobby Brown guest starred in. He showed that masterful footwork in his dancing scene that episode. It wasn't until I got older and actually listened to the Don't Be Cruel album I realized how much this song hits. It's 100% contains that New Jack Swing sound which makes sense since Teddy Riley produced it and is quite funky, you have no choice but to get up and dance to this song. I often wonder why a actual music video was never made for this one.

5. Every Little Step

An uptemo feel good  drum heavy New Jack Swing song about weathering the storm of relationships. Every Little Step will have everyone in a chokehold on the dance floor. The video that introduced everyone to the gumby haircut and the roger rabbit dance. The choreography in the music video, will have everyone trying to be as slick as Bobby Brown. No matter how much you try to resist you, you will bop hard to this.

4. I'll Really Love You Girl

Talk about an underrated album cut. This song is it, I'm still really confused why it was never released as a single. Everything just comes together and blends so well with this song, from Bobby's vocals to the cohesiveness of the instruments on the beat. Simply put this is one smooth track across the board. Here is the song for those who have never heard it, it deserves to be more well known and on quiet storm type radio programs everywhere. 

3. Roni

Bobby's most popular ballad and it's easy to see why. L.A. Reid and Babyface struck gold again with the production on this. The background horns and drums make a perfect combination to create this soothing beat. This is the type of song that a guy can use to sweep a woman off her feet if he plays his cards right. The whispery soulful of the background vocals helps bring home the sensual vibe. 30 plus years later Roni still has a gripe on ear lobes when its played.

2. On Our Own

If there is one Bobby Brown song that is without question my shit!!! it is this one. Released as a single for the 1989 Ghostbusters II soundtrack, this is another banger produced by L.A. Reid and Babyface. If you've ever heard it I shouldn't really have to explain why it is the shit. If for some reason you've never heard it, play it and let me know how long you go before tapping your feet. 

1. Don't Be Cruel

Now honestly I debated on one and two because they both just hit on all cylinders in my opinion. When I sat and thought about it what else could be number 1 but Don't Be Cruel? This song never gets old and everything just came together so flawlessly with this one. Even from the prelude track that proceeds the actual song, with it's haunting vocals. Then when the beat drops man it's game over from there.

Another masterpiece by Babyface and L.A. Reid, the lyrics, the beat, Bobby's rap. It's simple Don't Be Cruel is infectious as whole. I use to wear this song out playing GTA: San Andreas riding around town. I've actually danced to the choreography on this track when I call myself trying to do light exercise. At times my toddler daughter joins me in and always repeats "Don't Be, Don't Be". Which should tell you how impactful the song is. 

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Five Black 2000's Sitcoms You Forgot About

It's Black History Month, so I decided to kick it off by bringing to light some Black led Sitcoms from the 2000's you may not remember.

With all of the entertainment options out there it is easy for those that didn't make an impact to be forgotten as time goes on. As such here are 5 Black 2000's sitcoms you probably forget.

Meth & Red

In the summer of 2004 FOX came up with an idea that was ahead of its time. Year round first run programming. To help kick off that endeavor they gave rappers Method Man and Redman a show.

The single camera comedy followed the two rappers as fictional versions of themselves. They move into a mansion in a predominantly white neighborhood, and there goes the neighborhood. 

The shows tone was slapstick and zany and only lasted one season. Method and Red were unhappy with  how Fox presented the show and got into a heated feud with them. Making the show easily forgettable in the minds of many.

Tracy Morgan Show

Before his true star making role on 30 Rock, or his hilarious sitcom The Last O.G.. Tracy Morgan had a short lived sitcom on NBC after leaving Saturday Night Live.

The sitcom debuted in December of 2003 and ran for 18 years. It had a solid supporting cast with Tamala Jones, comedy legend John Witherspoon, and Heavy D. Katt Williams before his career really blew up was also a member of the cast.

Whole funny, the show sadly didn't catch on for some particular reason. Which is a shame as it slowly fading if the memory banks of people.

All About The Anderson's

Before he starred in the now classic sitcom Black-ish, Anthony Anderson was still a consistently working comedian and actor still looking for his big break. The WB network attempted to give him that with All About The Andersons.

Debuting in the fall of 2003, the sitcom followed Anderson as a struggling single dad who moves back in with his parents. He soon realizes that was a bad mistake. I honestly remember watching the show, but don't remember much about it. So it didn't leave an impact and it's easy to understand why it's not well-known.

The Big House

Katt Williams gave this sitcom some notoriety and refreshed some folks minds when he went on his Club Shay Shay spiel. In case that didn't refresh your memory I'll help you out.

Just before Kevin Hart's "star making" role in Soul Plane. He starred in a sitcom that only lasted for six complete episodes. It debuted on ABC in April of 2004. The sitcom was Fresh Prince of Bel-Air in reverse, Hart was a wealthy young man who due to some bad decisions by his parents. Basically was broke and forced to move to Philadelphia with his middle-class family.

The sitcom premise had potential, but I don't remember it being overly funny. It took Hart a few more years to become the rock star comedian he is today. Which means this blip of a sitcom in his career has been long forgotten.

Wanda At Large

In my opinion Wanda Skyes is funny, but her style of humor is acquired taste funny. You have to enjoy a certain type of comedy or be in the mood for it. She learned her style doesn't work for everyone with her TV show Wanda At Large.

The sitcom debuted on Fox in spring of 2003, with its episodes spilt in half to create two seasons before being canceled in the fall of 2003.

Skyes played a former D.C. government employee who becomes a local political commentator on a station, while becoming a stand up comedian. Like I said her style just isn't for everyone, and it shows which is why most don't remember this show.

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