Panda Express Unleashes Gaming Activations with Hot Orange Chicken

Panda Express Ventures into Gaming with Hot Orange Chicken
Panda Express has taken a creative leap by officially launching its first-ever gaming activation featuring the beloved Hot Orange Chicken. This innovative cross-platform campaign, designed to engage younger audiences, seamlessly integrates the sweet and spicy appeal of this iconic dish into popular gaming environments. The campaign primarily exists within Fortnite Creative and Roblox, where players can interact with the playful character Pei Pei the Panda.
Transforming the Gaming Experience
At the core of this initiative is an exciting new format introduced by Panda Express—interactive custom cutscenes. Unlike traditional advertisements that can disrupt gameplay, these cinematic moments are delicately woven into the gameplay itself. This integration occurs during natural pauses in the game, providing players with engaging story-driven hints about the return of Hot Orange Chicken. Such an approach transforms brand interaction into a memorable adventure, with players simultaneously earning unique in-game rewards.
Engagement Metrics and Player Interaction
The first weeks of the campaign have shown impressive results, showcasing the effectiveness of this groundbreaking strategy:
- 265,000+ players have experienced the cutscenes across various Fortnite Creative maps, actively earning rewards related to Panda Express.
- Players have engaged with Pei Pei the Panda for a total of 65 days, resulting in over 185,000 interactions, underscoring how well the character resonates with its audience.
Fabiola del Rio, Vice President of Integrated Marketing Communications at Panda Express, remarked, “Why tell people about Hot Orange Chicken when you can let them discover it through their own gaming moments. This partnership integrates us natively into their virtual world, turning discovery into gameplay and creating engaging adventures.”
The Campaign's Future and Interactive Features
This gaming activation is set to expand throughout the year with ongoing creative updates. Exciting new elements will be introduced, enhancing player interaction while keeping the focus on Hot Orange Chicken. Here are some standout features of the campaign:
- Interactive Fortnite Creative Cutscenes: Tailor-made cinematic experiences that surprise players mid-game, providing a unique marketing approach for quick-service restaurants.
- Map-Specific Rewards: Players unlocking themed items by completing specific tasks within each gameplay environment, adding an element of exclusivity to the interaction.
- Conversational Engagements with Pei Pei: The presence of Pei Pei boosts excitement and drives community engagement while enticing players to discover the offerings of Panda Express.
Matt Edelman, CEO of Super League, emphasized the innovation behind this activation: “In a world where attention must be earned, this initiative exemplifies the potential of playability in fostering memorable brand interactions.”
Hot Orange Chicken Returns!
The return of Hot Orange Chicken to Panda Express locations nationwide offers fans the chance to enjoy their favorite dish in real life, while also experiencing the activation in the gaming world. This summer marks a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to satisfy their cravings, both at their local Panda Express and in their favorite virtual realms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of Panda Express's new campaign?
Panda Express's campaign emphasizes the engagement of Hot Orange Chicken through interactive gaming experiences in Fortnite Creative and Roblox.
How does the campaign integrate with gaming?
The campaign uses interactive cutscenes and engages players through a character named Pei Pei, creating a native advertising experience within gameplay.
What results did the campaign achieve in its early weeks?
Within two weeks, the campaign attracted over 265,000 players and generated substantial engagement, with players interacting with Pei Pei for more than 65 days.
How will the campaign evolve?
The gaming activation is expected to expand with new creative updates and additional features to maintain player interest and interaction throughout the year.
Why is this campaign significant for Panda Express?
This campaign represents a pioneering effort in the QSR industry to connect with Gen Z audiences through innovative, immersive experiences in gaming, enhancing brand visibility and engagement.
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