Gaming tourism is a hot new trend that is about to explode. The virtual worlds of online gaming have become so advanced that Xbox is partnering with Rough Guides to publish a guide book to these alternative realms. This new kind of travel experience is seeing players shun the conventional modes of play to go off-piste, and explore the virtual locations around them as tourists. Jenny Southan reports
With ever-higher levels of resolution and detail, as well as seemingly horizonless environments to navigate, the Xbox Rough Guide will inform players of particularly beautiful, interesting and extraordinary places to visit. They have even created a tourist board-style film promoting the experiences. (See above.)
Of the Caspian from Metro Exodus, it says: “Deserted railroads and sweeping, sandy landscapes aren’t the only things you’ll find in the Caspian. Pause long enough and you’ll notice its quiet, serene scenery, the lumbering, lonely mountains, and an infinite collection of gorgeous skyscapes.”
Of Anthem’s Arkadia it says: “Arkadia’s agricultural output isn’t its only claim to fame. The region is also renowned for its rolling hills, beautiful greenery, and of course, phenomenal sunsets.”
Gaming tourism will also have a level of kudos attached, just like in the real world. You can even get a virtual postcard of the place you visited to share on social media.
Games that are Xbox One X Enhanced have been updated or built specifically to take full advantage of the latest Xbox console. (Rumours are abound that an X Box Two will be coming soon.) They sport 4K resolution, high frame rates and HDR for perfect cinematic visuals.
“Our campaign offers destinations from the past, present and future, on our world and beyond. Together with the Xbox community, we will continue to find, curate and capture the most beautiful locations in games.”
Laurence Thomson, chief creative officer at McCann UK, says that “this new type of ‘tourism’ offers people incredible new worlds to explore, from vibrant cities to exotic wildernesses to outer space”.
“Game worlds are so rich and immersive; this campaign aims to showcase that beauty,” he said.