Nike is set to revolutionize the gaming world with the launch of “Airphoria” in Fortnite. This marks a first in immersive digital sport experiences. This milestone builds upon Nike’s multiyear partnership with Epic Games. Nike’s new project is merging the worlds of sport and gaming in an exciting new way. By pushing the boundaries of physical product limitations, Airphoria demonstrates the future of sport fandom engagement in this digital age.
Nike’s Innovative Leap into the Gaming Space
Airphoria, the latest result of this dynamic collaboration, artfully combines the signature elements of Nike’s Air Max design with the ever-evolving landscape of Fortnite. Consequently, players can now engage with Air Max sneakers like never before, within a captivating, meticulously crafted Air Max-themed universe. By utilizing Epic Games’ groundbreaking Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN), Airphoria lets players venture into an innovative sneaker-themed universe, an industry-first for Nike.
Nike’s Virtual Studios VP/GM, Ron Faris, shared his enthusiasm for the project. Stating, “Airphoria represents a new, immersive experience for Nike as it amplifies its efforts in gaming and virtual products.” Faris further highlighted the company’s ambition to deepen its connection with fans, offering them greater access points to Nike through its digital ecosystem.
Airphoria and the Future of Partnerships
Meanwhile, the sense of excitement around the partnership extends beyond Nike’s walls. Nate Nanzer, VP of Global Partnerships at Epic Games, expressed his pride in launching Airphoria alongside Nike. He pointed out how Fortnite continues to be a significant destination for new cultural moments in entertainment, fashion, and sport. He also noted the power of next-gen tools like UEFN. The tool used by iconic brands like Nike and creators in the Fortnite community to build immersive worlds.
The Airphoria Experience
Epic Games’ UEFN gives life to Airphoria, suspending five iconic Air Max “Grails” in a majestic, pure air destination above the Airphoria city. The Air Max Grails, embodying key moments in Air Max history, allow the city to exist in the “Air State” — a realm of pure imagination and creativity.
As a bonus, Fortnite players can purchase the outfits showcased by Airphoria characters, Airie and Maxxed Out Max, in the Fortnite Item Shop. Additionally, to further bridge the virtual and physical worlds, a limited Airphoria-inspired collection is dropping on nike.com in North America.
The Airphoria Event Timeline
Players can access the Airphoria island from June 20 at 12 pm ET through June 27 at 8 pm ET via Fortnite Discover or island code 2118-5342-7190. Players aged 13 and above, living in the United States, who link their Epic Games and Nike accounts during the event window, can claim an Achievement on .SWOOSH by August 8, 2023.
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