Launched by ad agency NOW, the Political Shakedown game is an 8-bit browser-based game inspired by a recent incident in England in which a protester threw a milkshake at one particular pro-Brexit politician known for his divisive rhetoric.
The game, highlighting the throwing of milkshakes at individuals who many argue propagate messages of hate in politics, is described by NOW creative director Laura Muse as an opportunity to spread the positive message of the Stop Hate UK organization and a reminder of the importance of standing up to hate in all its forms. The Political Shakedown game was created by Muse, developer Paul Blackburn, and designer Jordan Dicks of the NOW agency and production company Jelly London.
The Political Shakedown game is, however, just that; the game directs users to become more involved in the cause by donating the cost of a "fancy" milkeshake to the anti-hate efforts of the Stop Hate UK at the end of the Political Shakedown game.
Milkshake-Throwing 8-Bit Games
The Political Shakedown Game Encourages Standing Up to Hate
Trend Themes
1. 8-bit Activism - Creating activism through 8-bit video games and engaging younger generations for a better future
2. Milkshake-protest - The idea of using milkshakes as protests and a symbol of resistance to challenge hateful messages.
3. Gamification for Good - Gamification is a perfect platform for capturing attention and educating people.
Industry Implications
1. Advertising - Using creative and interactive advertising campaigns to promote social causes through 8-bit gaming
2. Video Game - Creating new avenues for protest, challenging limitations, and advocating non-violent forms of resistance to creating change in society
3. Social Activism - Supporting social activism that tackles issues of intolerance, bigotry and foster positive change in the society