| Photo by Gleen Castens-Peters on Unsplash
JAKARTA, Indonesia — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will launch “ImaginASEAN,” a metaverse game, worldwide on World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024. Cosmow, a renowned metaverse game development studio, developed the integrated metaverse game.
ASEAN said this marks its first foray into the metaverse and demonstrates the region’s commitment to digital transformation. The game highlights tourism’s pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange, driving economic growth, and nurturing mutual understanding among diverse communities.
Players of this Roblox game will experience Southeast Asia’s vibrant cultural heritage and diverse tourist attractions. They can also win a trip for two to any Southeast Asian country.
For the second year, the campaign partners with Agoda, a Southeast Asian-based digital travel platform, and AirAsia, the leading airline in Southeast Asia, to celebrate the occasion. Players will win a chance to learn about and experience Southeast Asia’s destinations through a trip to their desired destinations. ASEAN added that this strategic initiative is a testament to its steadfast commitment to bolstering tourism and cultural awareness.
According to ASEAN, the “ImaginASEAN” metaverse game is a pioneering endeavor that seamlessly integrates tourism promotion with digital gaming. This aligns with ASEAN’s overarching strategy of leveraging digital innovation to enhance tourism activities while positioning Southeast Asia as an attractive single destination.
The key features of the game include:
- Interactive Mini-Game: Players will explore the ten ASEAN Member States’ iconic landmarks and cultural aspects on the Roblox platform.
- Cultural Garments: The game will introduce Southeast Asian-themed virtual garments, allowing players to customize their avatars with traditional attire representing each ASEAN Member State, promoting and celebrating the rich diversity of Southeast Asian cultures.
- Clues: Participants can embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt, uncovering fascinating messages about ASEAN and the region’s cultural heritage through famous landmarks and scenic locations across Southeast Asia.
- Exclusive Rewards: Finding hidden objects unlocks exclusive in-game rewards and virtual items. Additionally, the top 20 players who finish the hunt the quickest will be entered in a random drawing to win an unforgettable trip for two to Southeast Asia, offering a unique opportunity to experience the region firsthand. There will be a total of three top winners selected:
- Top Prize Winner: The winner and a guest will have the opportunity to travel to two ASEAN destinations. The winner will also receive USD 1,200 in AgodaCash to book hotel accommodations and experiences.
- Second Prize Winner: The winner and a guest will have the opportunity to travel to two ASEAN destinations. The winner will also receive USD 600in AgodaCash.
- Third Prize Winner: The winner and a guest will have the opportunity to travel to two ASEAN destinations. The winner will also receive USD 200AgodaCash.
The final terms and conditions for the “ImaginASEAN” game will be released later.
–-With Jay Domingo/PDM