Before Neo knew kung fu, Shaquille O'Neal mastered the martial art - at least the pixilated version of him. The year was 1994 and thanks to the success of Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat, one-on-one fighting games were all the (Primal) Rage. So was Shaq, who jump-kicked at the chance to roundhouse in his Reeboks. Thus, Shaq Fu was spawned. The game was slammed harder than Shaq ever did and internet reviewers revel in ripping it two decades later.
Contrary to popular belief and belittlement, it was far from the worst video game ever or even of its era. In fact, it wasn't even the worst title produced by Electronic Arts starring a basketball player in an action role released that year. That dubious distinction belongs to Michael Jordan: Chaos in the Windy City. Still, there is no doubt EA 16-bit off more than it could chew. Considering the plot involved sending Shaq to another dimension, the cartridge had little depth.
At any rate, Shaq is baq, but only on the PC (not Maq). However, he won't raise his fists a second time without first raising some money. A crowdfunding campaign began yesterday, on the Big Sensei's birthday. The developers are attempting to collect $450,000 in 45 days and they're so close to their goal - just $415,000 shy. There are perks for contributing your cash, such as having your face placed in the game ($2K), lunch and pickup hoops at Shaq's house ($15K) and the reward de resistance: sitting in on a taping of the TNT studio show with everyone's favorite, fun-loving foursome*.
Shaq swears, by not swearing, that "this time we won't fu it up." His promise remind us of an ancient Chinese proverb: Fu us once, Shaq, shame on you; fu us twice, shame on us.
*one prize we know will remain unclaimed is courtside seats to a Kings game. $3K should get you a roster spot.
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