Def Jam demo announced, delayed

Electronic Arts is hoping that tussles between rappers not only sell records, but also sell games. The California-based publisher is releasing Def Jam: Icon, the first next-gen version of the hip-hop fighting franchise, on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 this March.

To prepare for the game's launch, EA is giving Xbox 360 owners a chance to go toe-to-toe with the game for free. EA has confirmed to GameSpot that a demo of Icon is scheduled to be available on Xbox Live Marketplace this Thursday [now delayed, see update below].

The single-player demo will feature Big Boi--also known as one-half of Outkast--and T.I. as playable brawlers on the Gas Station level. Gameplay will be timed, and the two songs that will keep gamers tapping their toes and kicking their opponents' cans are "Kryptonite" from Purple Ribbon All-Stars featuring Big Boi and "Top Back" from T.I.

Def Jam: Icon is rated M for Mature. For more information, read GameSpot's previous coverage.

[UPDATE] Electronic Arts has notified GameSpot that it is postponing the demo in order to coordinate a worldwide release. EA told GameSpot, "The demo will be available soon on Xbox Marketplace. We are coordinating a worldwide release for the demo. More details to follow."