The 14th Annual New York Game Awards just got a major upgrade as the legendary nerdcore rapper, Mega Ran, takes the stage as the official musical headliner! Known for his electrifying blend of hip-hop, video games, and education, Mega Ran will debut a brand-new, original song crafted just for the event, making this a can’t-miss moment for gaming and music fans alike.
The New York Video Game Critis Circle (NYVGCC) is transforming the SVA Theatre in Manhattan into a celebration of gaming culture. Even if you can’t make it in person, this year’s partner, IGN, will be streaming the show across its platforms, ensuring fans everywhere can join in on the hype.
Raheem Jarbo, the man behind the Mega Ran moniker, is more than just a rapper. He’s a former teacher turned lyrical genius who has made his mark on gaming culture. His tracks have graced iconic games like Mortal Kombat 1, TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, and River City Girls 2.
“Raheem’s background as an educator and deep love for video games resonated with our organization and made the decision to bring him in as a performer a no-brainer.
I like to describe his Mega Ran persona as a nerdcore transmitter of video game lore, and we can’t wait to see how he captures our audience with his set paying tribute to this medium we all love.”
Whether you’re in the audience at the SVA Theatre or tuning in via IGN, Mega Ran’s performance will be a standout highlight of the 2025 New York Game Awards.
