Xbox 360 transformed the Principality of Liechtenstein by taking over some of the country’s most iconic landmarks to mark the launch of Halo 4.
This included a 13th century castle and a working mine in order o create a real-life replica of the Halo universe within the heart of Europe. For one day, the mountainous landscapes of the normally tranquil Liechtenstein countryside became a stage for an epic sci-fi saga as Xbox 360 created a mysterious alternate universe inspired by the video game franchise which has sold a staggering 46 million copies worldwide since launch in 2001.
Fans and media from 16 countries were brought into this off-world environment to take part in a theatrical experience which saw them travel to a top secret location before being unexpectedly thrust into a war zone which recreated brutal battle grounds through pyrotechnic explosions, thunderous sound effects and cinematic set builds. The makeover of the country included:
- Reimagining a 13th Century Castle – standing on a 70-metre high spur of rock, Gutenberg Castle, one of the most important historical landmarks of Liechtenstein, took on a new guise as a futuristic military fortification where guests become among the first to play “Halo 4”
- Overtaking an entire quarry – a working mine became a jaw-dropping arena for sci-fi adventure, with an appearance from the hero of “Halo 4”, the Master Chief, amidst a series of pyrotechnic explosions
- Creating a Military Camp in the countryside – a local farmer’s field become a post-apocalyptic battle ground
- Finishing touches included the use of bespoke props, special effects and pyrotechnics
- Immersive theatre –15 actors took guests on a two-hour adventure which involved decoding a series of cryptic clues to help save mankind from extinction by fighting off the threat of an attack
Chris Lewis, Vice President, Interactive Entertainment Business, Microsoft EMEA stated:
““Halo” is a $3 billion blockbuster franchise which has shaped entertainment history and defined a generation of gamers, From the world’s first ever red-carpet premieres for a video game to sending a man strapped to a jet-pack 50-foot above London’s iconic skyline, “Halo” launches have continually broken the mould and we are back with a colossal bang for “Halo 4”, transforming a country on the biggest scale imaginable”.
Some screenshots have also been released for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy the screenshots and let us know your thoughts via the comment section below.
