AirAsia, a Malaysia-based travel and lifestyle brand, and global gaming firms SEGA and ATLUS, have on Tuesday announced an electrifying collaboration that brings to life two iconic gaming franchises, Sonic the Hedgehog and Persona 5, through aircraft liveries and immersive in-flight experiences.
This partnership is in conjunction with the larger ‘The Colour Of Connection’ campaign by AirAsia brand co. (Abc.), the brand management arm of Capital A, AirAsia said in a statement.
According to the statement, the collaboration between AirAsia, SEGA, and ATLUS ushers in a new era of travel, seamlessly merging the worlds of gaming and aviation.
By bringing iconic gaming franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog and Persona 5 to the skies, AirAsia reinforces its commitment to connecting people to their passions of fun and entertainment.
The partnership will feature two aircraft adorned with the iconic designs of Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends Tails, Knuckles, Shadow, and Amy Rose, as well as the captivating Persona 5 characters Joker and Morgana.
Sonic and friends will adorn AirAsia X’s Airbus A330 aircraft with tail number 9M-XXU. Meanwhile, the Persona 5 livery will grace an AirAsia Malaysia’s Airbus A320 aircraft with tail number 9M-AFF.
These two aircraft will fly routes across AirAsia’s network of over 100 destinations including major cities in Southeast Asia and Asia Pacific like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, and Sydney, bringing the thrill of popular gaming culture and lifestyle to many guests and fans around Asean and beyond.
“This partnership marks another milestone for the AirAsia brand as we delve deeper into the exciting world of gaming and pop culture,” said Rudy Khaw, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia brand co. (Abc.).
“This partnership is a natural fit for AirAsia, as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing experiences for our guests and communities,
“As a brand that carries the pride of Asean, we are thrilled to showcase the region’s vibrant spirit and creativity through this partnership,” he added.
Shuji Utsumi, President and Chief Operating Officer, Representative Director of SEGA CORPORATION, said the Sonic and Persona series are expanding not only in Japan but throughout Asia.
“We believe that the synergy created by the collaboration of travel and gaming, two forms of entertainment, will bring us new discoveries,” he added.
It is noted that Sonic the Hedgehog, SEGA’s iconic blue speedster, has been a beloved figure in gaming for over 30 years, captivating audiences worldwide through games, TV shows, comics, and movies.
His heroic battles against the villainous Dr. Eggman has made Sonic a global sensation, and the excitement is set to soar with the upcoming theatrical release of “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”.
Similarly, Persona 5, the critically acclaimed role-playing game franchise developed by ATLUS, has left an indelible mark on the gaming world.
Known for its sleek visuals, compelling narrative, and innovative gameplay, Persona 5 has garnered a dedicated fanbase and widespread acclaim.
The game’s unique blend of high school life and supernatural elements has transformed it into a cultural phenomenon.
Building on this success, ATLUS released Persona 5 Royal, introducing new characters, storylines, and gameplay enhancements.
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