Dear MMO studios, it’s not too late in the year to get your entries in for the coveted MOP Transmedia Synergy award. Remember: The more nonsensical and liable to leave fans scratching their heads, the better.
Take a cue from World of Warcraft, which is getting in a last-minute nomination for this esteemed honor by collaborating with Seattle’s Washington Football this coming weekend as the team plays UCLA.
Apparently this is a stunt for the MMO’s 20th anniversary: “This week, the school will be rebranded as the ‘University of Warcraft’ — featuring a new logo — culminating with in-game activation during Friday night’s home finale versus UCLA. The game will feature World of Warcraft mascots leading the team out to the field, special shirts for the student section and visuals integrated into the Husky Stadium video board production, among other unique elements.”
As expected, the responses are gold. “Does this require me to touch grass? I don’t like that mechanic,” said one player. “Is this the Worgen rebrand?” asked another.
- A custom “University of Warcraft” logo and digital takeover featuring unique World of Warcraft assets leading up to the game
- Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals with University of Washington football players Carson Bruener, Denzel Boston, Jonah Coleman, Camden Simon, Adam Mohammad, Kamren Fabiculanan, Jacob Lane, Cameron Broussard, D’Angalo Titialli, Demond Williams, Jr and Will Rodgers to create custom “University of Warcraft” content on social media to promote the rebranding
- A World of Warcraft-themed fan zone featuring different characters from the video game
- World of Warcraft Mascots leading the team out onto the field
From your starting zone to the end zone 🏈 @UW_Football is partnering with @Warcraft for a one-of-a-kind in stadium experience.
Join us this Friday in Seattle for #UWarcraft pic.twitter.com/JjBk5Pt4Fu
— World of Warcraft (@Warcraft) November 12, 2024