It's unclear when the travel industry will look as it once did and in the meantime, the travel industry is being challenged to get creative when it comes to tourism marketing campaigns. The newly released Animal Crossing: New Horizons has become a popular way for brands to virtually reach Gen Z and nostalgic Millennials and Singapore's Sentosa Island is welcoming visitors to the very first branded island on the game.
Daily, Sentosa Crossing opens 36 slots for registration so that small groups can go on rides and attractions that are modeled after the real-world Sentosa Singapore. On the virtual island, players can enjoy everything from open-air yoga sessions to beachside bars, trails, flower gardens and its relaxing resort and spa.
Branded Virtual Islands
Singapore's Sentosa Island Recreated Itself Within Animal Crossing
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Tourism - Opportunity for brands to create virtual destinations and experiences for consumers.
2. Gamification Marketing - Use of popular games like Animal Crossing to engage with target audiences and promote products or destinations.
3. Nostalgia Marketing - Leveraging nostalgic experiences to attract Millennials and Gen Z consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Travel and Tourism - Opportunity for travel industry players to explore virtual experiences as an alternative to physical tourism.
2. Gaming - Brands in the gaming industry can collaborate with virtual destinations to create engaging experiences for players.
3. Branding and Marketing - Brands can explore innovative ways to connect with target audiences by recreating virtual representations of their products or destinations.