Animal Crossing: New Horizons-- a game that was in high anticipation amid fans--was released for the Nintendo Switch last month. The experience is based on a "visually vibrant digital community" and players are tasked with "building an island and making friends." Part of the reason why the game is so captivating for so many is that it allows users to customize just about anything, including the clothes their characters wear.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, individuals have been forced to stay at home and many have found solace in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. More unexpected is the fact that the gameplay has spawned multiple social media accounts where creators are debuting their designer-forward outfits for their Animal Crossing Characters. Multiple references to brands like COMME des GARÇONS and Simone Rocha are made.
Fashion-Forward Custom Gaming Experiences
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Engages Streetwear Fans
Trend Themes
1. Custom Gaming Experiences - There is a trend of creating custom gaming experiences that allow users to personalize and express their individuality.
2. Fashion Gaming - The trend of fashion-forward gaming experiences is creating new opportunities for fashion and gaming collaborations.
3. Social Media Gaming - The trend of sharing gaming experiences on social media is creating opportunities for individuals and brands to showcase their creativity and gain exposure.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The gaming industry can capitalize on this trend by developing more customization features that allow users to express their individuality through their gaming experiences.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry can collaborate with gaming companies to create new opportunities for brand exposure and marketing through fashion-forward gaming experiences.
3. Social Media - Social media platforms can explore the trend of sharing gaming experiences to create new engagement opportunities and partnerships with gaming companies and fashion brands.