99% Invisible Hidden Levels #1: Mr. Boomshakalaka
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Oct 7, 2025 James Parkinson, a producer and contributor, dives into the wild world of NBA Jam, exploring its conception from Mortal Kombat. Tim Kitzrow, the iconic voice behind the game's catchphrases, shares his journey from pinball gigs to recording sessions that birthed phrases like 'Boom Shakalaka!' They discuss the cultural impact of the game, its electrifying arcade atmosphere, and how it captivated NBA stars. Listeners will discover behind-the-scenes secrets and the surprising evolution of Tim's career, as NBA Jam became a staple in gaming and sports culture.
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From Teen Prodigy To NBA Jam Lead
- Mark Timmel was a teenage wunderkind who earned thousands designing games before joining Midway.
- He later led NBA Jam's creation, channeling his basketball fandom into a hit arcade game.
Real Faces, Unreal Moves
- NBA Jam mixed digitized player graphics with fantastical gameplay to create a new arcade spectacle.
- The game's visual realism combined with impossible moves made it feel both familiar and wildly entertaining.
Arcade Test Night Chaos
- Midway tested NBA Jam by installing a cabinet at Dennis' Place and watching players swarm it.
- The arcade erupted with fights, crowds, and jammed coin doors as players fought for control of the machine.