Nintendo is going all-out advertising their latest ink-shooter, Splatoon, delivering a dedicated Nintendo Direct and even holding a Mess-Fest to show off the game. As the May 29th release date approaches, commercials have shown up on TV’s across the world as well. However, not every country is marketing the game in the same light.
Japan and America undoubtedly have different approaches to advertising video games, and their respective commercials for Splatoon are prime examples of this. Below is a Japanese ad for the game.
GORGEOUS. The Japanese commercial features a bustling urban city through which a beautifully rendered inkling swims, before finally transforming into a humanoid and blasting her Splattershot to join in the mess-making. The ad carries a bit of edge and mystery while still giving a sense of what the game is about.
Now, a couple of American commercials for comparison.
“Splat the World” Commercial
“Squid Kid” Commercial
The US definitely takes a more kid-centered focus to their commercials for Splatoon. Using gameplay footage covered by an annoyingly catchy jingle, the ads were able to give a very clear synopsis of the game, while implanting the feature-filled lyrics into the memories of viewers for the next few hours.
Though the Japanese commercial was epic, I’m a bit partial to the American advertisement. Not only does it more concisely represent the game, but its jingle gives me a sense of 90’s nostalgia that hits home. Who doesn’t love a catchy song?
But that’s just one gamer’s opinion. Which advertisement did you prefer? Let us know down below!
