Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” continues to make waves, now as it gets adapted into a video game, coinciding with its return to the Hot 100.
In the pixelated adventure, players assume control of Lamar, swinging a bat at an owl, reminiscent of K. Dot’s music video where he takes aim at an owl piñata—a symbol famously associated with Drake’s label, OVO Sound. The game is backed by a catchy chiptune rendition of “Not Like Us,” and the aim is to top the leaderboard with a score of 69, also a cheeky nod to Lamar’s lyrics.
Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" has been turned into a browser-based game. Check it out! #NotLikeUs #KendrickLamar #owls pic.twitter.com/9az7yDqRAC
— Shacknews (@shacknews) July 15, 2024
Developed by Richie Branson, known for his work with Bleacher Report and Epic Games (yes, Fortnite!), the game promises a nostalgic yet cutting-edge gaming experience that pays homage to Lamar’s music while playfully skewering pop culture icons. And, it’s totally free to play on both desktops and smartphones.
Of course, donations are welcome. “This game is a free love letter to video games and hip-hop,” he writes in a statement. “If you want to support, show love to me cashapp or venmo $RICHIEBRANSON.”
It’s worth noting that while Branson credited himself for programming and music, he collaborated with a rather large team on the game’s visual treatment, ensuring each pixelated swing and owl hit embodied Lamar’s irreverent style.
Soaring to the top spot in May and enjoying a cozy eight-week stint in the Top 10, “Not Like Us” has clinched Kendrick Lamar’s inaugural multi-week Hot 100 No. 1 as a solo artist, fueled by a whopping 54 million streams and 40 million radio airplay impressions, according to Variety. Adding to the buzz, Lamar recently turned up with his ‘The Pop Out’ concert in LA with six scorching performances of the track, joined by a slew of Hip Hop heavyweights including Dr. Dre, YG, Tyler the Creator, and Schoolboy Q.