Republic Records is moving into gaming with a new partnership alongside developer Nothing Projects Interactive. Together, they will launch OnlyHands, a real-time mobile fighting game that mixes music, combat mechanics, and pop culture. Many early viewers are already comparing it to a spiritual successor of Def Jam: Fight for NY.
The game is scheduled for release in Q4 2025. OnlyHands will feature playable fighter versions of Republic artists, with each character powered by their own music. Although the label hasn’t confirmed which stars will appear, Republic’s roster includes Nicki Minaj, Kid Cudi, Ariana Grande, Lorde, and Taylor Swift. This sets the stage for a lineup that could include both pop and rap artists represented as in-game avatars.
Avery Lipman, Founder of Republic Records and Vice Chairman/COO of Republic Collective, said the collaboration reflects a shared goal of expanding cultural experiences. Lipman described OnlyHands as a platform built to merge gaming, music, and internet-driven culture.
Nothing Projects Interactive describes the game as a “music-first” ecosystem. The developers are building it on four pillars:
• Combat-driven streaming, where winning fights triggers real music streams.
• Playable artist avatars with moves inspired by their public personas.
• Instant content injections, allowing creators to push new cosmetics, tracks, or signature moves.
• A live fan economy involving streams, item drops, and in-game purchases.
CEO Zane Comer said the intention isn’t simply to merge two industries, but to establish a new interactive space that blends both in a native format.
The release aligns with Republic and Universal Music Group’s continued expansion into interactive platforms. Recent initiatives include UMG’s Beat Galaxy hub on Roblox, TWICE’s metaverse fan activation, and a partnership with HEAT to integrate music from major artists like Lil Wayne, into games.
Rapper Sauce Walka, who appears in early footage, posted his support for the project and framed it as a modern answer to the classic hip-hop fighting games. He announced that OnlyHands will also arrive in Q1 2026 for PC and mobile.
The official OnlyHands site is already building interest with humorous “research clips,” teasers, and appearances from artists like Boosie, Key Glock, and Kodak Black, adding another layer to the game’s world-building approach.
