Creating New Video Games and More

Introduction:

Hi, I’m Shaun Marson, and I’m on a mission to reignite the passion for intense, street-fighting games that left an unforgettable mark on gaming history. For years, fans have been asking for the return of a game like Def Jam Fight For NY, a masterpiece that combined electrifying combat, incredible characters, and a vibe that was unmatched. That’s why I’m creating Kings of the Underground—a fighting game born out of love for the original and a desire to bring that raw, authentic energy to a new generation of fans.

This isn’t just another game—it’s a tribute to what made Def Jam iconic, built with the same pulse-pounding intensity and a fresh twist to make it stand out in today’s gaming landscape. Kings of the Underground will blend hard-hitting combat, diverse characters, and a soundtrack that hits as hard as the punches. I want to capture that feeling of adrenaline, of being fully immersed in the grit and glory of street-fighting culture, while pushing the boundaries with modern gameplay mechanics and innovative storytelling.

But this project is about more than just nostalgia. It’s a chance to give fans something they’ve been waiting for—a game that celebrates the spirit of Hip-Hop and individuality. By supporting Kings of the Underground, you’re not only helping to revive a genre but also paving the way for a new wave of creativity and collaboration in the gaming industry.

I’ve poured my heart into this project, and I’ve been funding it myself for as long as I could. However, after facing setbacks like losing my job, it’s become clear that I can’t do it alone. That’s why I’m turning to you, the community, to help bring this dream to life. Every contribution will go directly toward assembling an incredible team of writers, animators, programmers, and designers to ensure this game lives up to the legacy it’s inspired by.

Let’s show the world what passionate fans and creators can accomplish together. With your support, Kings of the Underground can become the game we’ve all been waiting for. Thank you for believing in this vision, and let’s make it happen!

Personal Touches:

The reason I’m turning to GoFundMe is deeply personal—I’ve been funding these projects out of my own pocket for as long as I could. However, after losing my job, it became much harder to make progress. Despite the challenges, my passion for creating hasn’t wavered, and I’m committed to making these ideas a reality. I want to build something amazing through this platform, knowing I’m doing it in a way that’s honest, efficient, and free of wasted time or unfair compromises.

The Impact:

The projects I want to create have the potential to truly resonate with people. For example, a Def Jam-inspired game has been on fans' wishlists for years, and I would love to deliver that in a way that exceeds expectations. Imagine a game that brings the same energy, excitement, and cultural significance that people loved about the original, but reimagined for today’s audience. I want to create something that not only pays homage to the classics but also innovates and stands as a beacon of what creative collaboration can achieve.

Each of my projects, from Kings of the Underground to Project Aether: Rise and Dead Man Sam, is designed to spark excitement, nostalgia, and joy for gamers, readers, and fans alike. This isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about creating something that leaves a lasting impression. I want these projects to inspire and excite people while also opening doors for the talented individuals working on them.

Your support is the key to making this vision a reality. Together, we can create something extraordinary that fans have been waiting for and dreaming about. Thank you for being part of this journey.

What is Kings of the Underground?

Kings of the Underground is designed for fans who’ve been waiting for a worthy successor to Def Jam Fight For NY. In this game, players can create their own characters, step into the ring with famous artists, celebrities, and iconic fighters, and claim supremacy in epic underground battles. It’s more than a game; it’s a community of fighters, artists, and fans who love the culture and intensity of the classic street-fighting experience.

Our vision is to take what made Def Jam Fight For NY unforgettable and elevate it with the best graphics, customizable characters, intense arenas, and an incredible roster that brings some of the biggest names in music and entertainment into the fight.

Why We Need Your Support

Creating a high-quality, high resolution fighting game like Kings of the Underground requires significant resources, and that’s where you come in!

Game Development and Programming: Building a responsive, engaging fight engine that pays homage to the original while delivering something fresh and powerful.

Character Design and Customization: Creating hundreds of customization options so players can build a character that truly represents them.

Celebrity Partnerships and Licensing: Securing artists, fighters, and celebrities to enhance the roster and enrich the experience.

Graphics and Sound Design: Top-tier visual and audio design to immerse players in the Kings of the Underground world.

Marketing and Community Building: Bringing together a worldwide community of Def Jam fans and new players alike.

Be Part of the Kings of the Underground Legacy

You’re helping build a game by the fans, for the fans.

Thank you for being part of this journey to bring Kings of the Underground to life. Let’s make history together and create the ultimate fighting experience we’ve all been waiting for!

Here's Some Visuals Of Characters And Videos:

Disclaimer to my Fundraiser:

No r*ffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or promises of returns on investment are being offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe.

In Conclusion:

I’m turning to GoFundMe because it’s a safe and trusted platform that can help me bring my creative dreams to life. I have a deep passion for storytelling, game design, and animation, and I want to use this opportunity to make something extraordinary. My vision isn’t just about creating amazing projects; it’s about building a community of talented individuals—especially those who’ve lost their jobs or struggled to find work in their fields—and giving them a chance to earn a living doing what they love. This is about more than just projects; it’s about opportunity, collaboration, and hope.

Some of the ideas I’m developing include a Def Jam-inspired fighting game called Kings of the Underground, a Bloody Roar-inspired project called Roar of the Unchained, and my original fighting game Project Aether: Rise. Additionally, I’m working on an animated series titled Dead Man Sam, Hack n Slasher starring the studios' mascot Sage Varnado entitled Project Aether: Blood and Chocolate and a series of books within the Project Aether universe. Each of these projects has the potential to not only entertain but to showcase incredible artistry and innovation.

But to make these ideas a reality, I need a team—writers, animators, directors, 3D modelers, programmers, and more. My ultimate goal is to create a studio that brings together like-minded creatives who share a passion for storytelling and artistry. This studio would be a hub for innovation, a place where new ideas can thrive, and where people with a shared vision can come together to create something spectacular.

I truly believe in this vision. These aren’t just dreams; they are carefully thought-out ideas with immense potential. With your support, I can lay the foundation for this studio, provide jobs to talented individuals, and bring these projects to life. Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward building this creative dream—funding software, equipment, and the talented people needed to make it all happen.