Artist and entrepreneur to curate soundtrack and lend artistic vision to world’s top NBA video game simulation franchise as Executive Producer

New York, NY – August 1, 2012 – 2K Sports today announced an unprecedented partnership with entertainment mogul Shawn “JAY Z” Carter to serve as Executive Producer of NBA 2K13, the next installment of the top-selling and top-rated NBA video game simulation franchise*.

“This has been a unique opportunity to collaborate with 2K Sports and be a part of one of the best sports video games in history,” commented JAY Z. “NBA 2K13 will be the next evolution in sports and basketball culture, and I’m ready to usher in the new era of the franchise.”

JAY Z’s interests and influences extend well beyond his illustrious music career as a 14-time Grammy award winner, as evidenced by his part-ownership of the 40/40 sports clubs and of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets, having recently helped craft that team’s iconic black-and-white logo and visual identity. As Executive Producer of NBA 2K13, JAY Z’s artistic vision and style will permeate the experience, from the overall look and feel of the game, to the hand-picked soundtrack, interactive in-game menus and more.

“We aren’t content with just being the best, and we will continue to grow the NBA 2K franchise into one of today’s premier entertainment experiences,” said Jason Argent, vice president of marketing for 2K Sports. “JAY Z’s role in NBA 2K13 represents a unique fusion of basketball, music, art, and entertainment, and illustrates the evolution of NBA 2K into something much bigger than simply the best basketball video game series ever made.”

The audio and visual aesthetics of NBA 2K13 will reflect a balance of basketball and musical influences, with JAY Z himself hand-picking the game’s soundtrack. The 24-song collection features some of his top hits, along with an eclectic mix of music’s biggest acts.

NBA 2K13 is the latest instalment in the best-selling and highly rated NBA videogame series. NBA 2K13 is the best way to plug into NBA culture. It’s the most fun, authentic NBA videogame experience and is for any sports fan with that competitive fire who wants to play the best NBA simulation on the market.

Basketball action returns in NBA 2K13 on Xbox 360, the latest instalment in the award-winning series from 2K Sports.

This year, 2K Sports will take the 'virtual hardwood' to the next level, joining forces with the legendary Jay Z as Executive Producer, who has presided over both the soundtrack and in-game elements such as menus, art and gameplay cameras.

NBA 2K13 features an enhanced MyCareer mode and all-new gameplay features that lets you pit the best players in NBA history against the new dynasty of talent.

• The Control Stick - For the first time ever, all dribble moves have been mapped to the right analog stick, as well as shooting, passing, and post moves. String together devastating crossovers and clutch shots for maximum control and effectiveness.
• Dynamic Shot Generator - Shots are now dynamically created on the fly, with all-new collision physics created in real-time.
• Signature Skills - Each player has unique abilities that can alter the course of a game. Players are modelled to impact the game in their own unique way, from Derrick Rose as a "Floor General" to Kevin Durant being "The Closer." Learn to use each player's unique ability and change the game on your terms.
• Revamped Passing System - Improved fast break passing gives players more control. Fire a bounce pass to a cutting teammate or go "Lob City" in transition.