Nike and Fortnite have announced a further expansion of their partnership that will see the former activewear brand bringing an additional four digital sneaker styles to the latter video game's platform. The digital sneakers come in the form of the Air Force 1 Low Bronx Origins, the Blazer Mid '77 Washed Denim, Mercurial Superfly 10 Elite Mad Voltage and the Pegasus 41 Hot Punch. The various digital sneakers can be purchased in-game using Fortnite V-Bucks and are compatible for pairing with more than 500 of the existing skins found on the platform.
The expansion of the Nike and Fortnite partnership comes as part of the continued diversification of the activewear brand's associations as they seek greater integration into more aspects of the consumer lifestyle.
In-Game Digital Sneakers
Nike and Fortnite Launched Four Digital Sneakers
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Fashion - Increasing popularity of digital fashion items, like Nike's digital sneakers in Fortnite, draws consumers into a burgeoning virtual couture market.
2. In-game Merchandise - The launch of branded digital items within popular games signifies a shift towards in-game purchases becoming a pivotal revenue stream for companies.
3. Cross-industry Collaborations - Collaborations between leading brands and gaming platforms, exemplified by Nike and Fortnite's partnership, create unique opportunities to engage diverse consumer bases in virtual environments.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The integration of wearable fashion items within video games like Fortnite highlights the potential for further crossover between gaming and external industries.
2. Fashion - Digital renditions of iconic sneaker designs suggest a future where virtual fashion collections hold as much allure as their physical counterparts.
3. Retail - In-game purchases of branded virtual goods indicate a shifting dynamic in retail, where consumers increasingly value digital ownership.