This is a bit of a departure from the normal "People of RF Generation" article. While I usually do a text survey of a member, I have gone a different direction. Since it was announced, I have been anticipating the release of the NBA Jam book in the Boss Fight Books series. Reyan Ali is the author of NBA Jam. He was nice enough to sit down for a chat about the book, his experience, and even a little Mortal Kombat...
At this point, you're probably thinking, didn't zophar53 just do an article about this? Well, yes, he did. We independently happened across review copies of the book and were initially trying to release our stuff together. That didn't work out for various reasons, but I'm ready for the tip now!
Before we get to the interview, I wanted to also share my thoughts on the book. While I don't feel the need to go in depth like zophar's review did, I will try to at least capture my personal thoughts and feelings about reading the book. If you would like to read his review, check it out here:
http://www.rfgeneration.c...ht-Books-NBA-Jam-4031.phpReyan paints a very colorful picture for each scene. With no visual reference point, I was still able to feel like I could see the crew hanging around at Dennis' Place for Games with all of the noises of 90's arcade games surrounding me. The book has a very natural flow to it that makes it very difficult to put down, but if you have to, it's also incredibly easy to pick it right back up. The stories were all memorable, regardless of how quick they may pass. One that immediately comes to mind is a very quick blurb about George Clinton discussing his... involvement... in the game.
As was mentioned, as you begin reading, you start to see names that are immediately recognizable based on their groundbreaking work at Midway. You get behind the scenes information about how the motion capture technology was developed, how the artists got the players in to the game, and experience the fun that was had while making the game. Even if you aren't a huge fan of the game, the story behind it and all of the accompanying information related to Midway is well worth the time. Reyan has compiled many stories over several years of research and interviews that really flesh out the story from all avenues. I can't possibly recommend the book enough.
On to the interview!
You can order your own copy of the book here:
https://bossfightbooks.co...ucts/nba-jam-by-reyan-aliBe sure to follow Reyan on Twitter at
@nbajambook! Thanks so much for reading and listening!
Note: I was provided a complimentary review ebook advance copy of the book.
