- 11/06/2007 (5:07:12 pm)
- Press Release
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The publisher is kicking off a huge multi-million dollar marketing campaign tonight. The TV campaign itself will span eight countries.
Posted by James Brightman on Tuesday, November 06, 2007
To hammer home the fact that WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is making its debut on the DS, Wii and PS3, THQ and Jakks Pacific will kick off a global marketing campaign tonight during Monday Night RAW. This multi-million dollar campaign is all part of what THQ is calling "the biggest SmackDown vs. Raw launch in the franchise's nine-year history."
THQ outlined the facets of the campaign as follows:
- A global TV campaign in eight different countries, including advertising, broadcast and event sponsorships
- Print advertising in consumer publications and holiday buyer guides, including a Nintendo-specific campaign
- A comprehensive online campaign including advertising, a demo campaign via Xbox Live Marketplace for the Xbox 360, as well as the annual roster reveal and daily Superstar profiles campaign on IGN
- A worldwide gaming tournament where top SmackDown vs. Raw gamers will win the opportunity to compete at the 6th Annual THQ Superstar Challenge in Orlando, FL, which kicks off WrestleMania 24 weekend
- First-ever launch event for the franchise at Toys"R"Us Times Square, including an appearance and autograph signing by WWE Superstar Rey Mysterio
- Retailer-specific promotions including Superstar appearances, exclusive gift with purchase opportunities, co-marketing with WWE DVD and more
- Wireless promotions through major carriers
"The exciting and frenetic atmosphere of Monday Night RAW provides the perfect stage from which to launch our WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 global marketing campaign," said Bob Aniello, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. "This comprehensive worldwide effort will show fans how their love of wrestling can find intense new outlets through this year's SmackDown vs. Raw debut on Wii, Nintendo DS and the PlayStation 3 system. Each platform provides unique fighting experiences that will bring fans closer than ever to their favorite Superstars."
"The WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 global marketing campaign is the most comprehensive effort to date for the SmackDown vs. Raw franchise," added Nelo Lucich, vice president of interactive, Jakks Pacific. "We are excited by the unique game play delivered across an impressive seven systems and look forward to the upcoming launch of this year's game."
In addition to the DS, Wii and PS3, the latest Smackdown will also be available on Xbox 360, PS2, PSP and "wireless devices" when it ships on November 13 (it hits Europe, Australia and New Zealand even earlier on November 9).
