NBA 2K20 is the latest video game title to pay homage to the late George Floyd. Amid many protests around the United States, NBA 2K20 has added a collection of clothes to bring attention to the memory of George Floyd as well as current issues. The collection of clothes includes a shirt with "Black Lives Matter" text in the front with variations that can include "I Can't Breathe" and "Say Their Names." The entire collection is available to claim at Swags, which is located in the neighborhood of MyCareer mode.
Currently, the clothes are available for free for any players and are advertised upon opening the game. NBA 2K has also given free shirts to players that featured flags of countries affected by coronavirus as well as free Lakers gear when Kobe Bryant passed away. Each time NBA 2K puts a tribute in-game, there is overwhelming support by players who gather in the neighborhood wearing the shirts and showing support.
The "Black Lives Matter" shirts have already been claimed by many players who stood in solidarity in the neighborhood during George Floyd's funeral. Yesterday, between 1-3 PM Eastern Time, NBA 2K20 shut off online play to honor George Floyd's funeral. During that time, Rockstar also suspended online play for Red Dead Redemption 2 and Grand Theft Auto 5.
The "Black Lives Matter" clothes do not only serve as a memory of George Floyd, but the terms on the shirts bring attention to the victims of police brutality. "I Can't Breathe" refers to some of the last words said by George Floyd, as well as Eric Garner, who was suffocated in 2014. "Say Their Names" refers to the many black lives that have been lost and to remember all of their names. These are powerful statements by 2K, who also took powerful action and donated $1 million dollars to fight racial injustice.
Many developers and publishers have joined in by either donated to the cause or have released supportive statements. For Example, EA put out a statement in support and postponed the first look at Madden 21.
More and more video games are adding in-game messages and support as well as taking action to help those in need. Video games have a much larger audience than ever before and the support from many members of the industry is uplifting to those who may not think their voice can be heard. Players around the world are being given opportunities to stand with others, even if it is virtually in a NBA 2K20 neighborhood.
NBA 2K20 is available on PC, PlayStation 4, Stadia, Switch, and Xbox One.