THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) and JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (NASDAQ: JAKK) today announced that the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 global marketing campaign, aimed at highlighting the franchise's debut on the Wii home video game system, the Nintendo DS and the PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, will kick off tonight on Monday Night RAW.
The campaign is a multifaceted, multi-million dollar global marketing effort to support the biggest SmackDown vs. Raw launch in the franchise's nine year history. WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 is scheduled for simultaneous release on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PSP (PlayStationPortable) system, the Wii and Nintendo DS, plus wireless devices, on November 9, 2007 across Europe, Australia and New Zealand; and on November 13, 2007 across North America.
"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," said 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."
The cross platform marketing strategy for WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008 also includes:
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
Wireless promotions through major carriers.