Ford is finding new ways to create a core base of future buyers. The Blue Oval is heading to the virtual world thanks to a new collaboration with video game company Psyonix.
The 2021 F-150 will be available in the hit video game Rocket League, which allows users to play soccer in their favorite vehicle. The virtual pickup boasts a rocket booster, a chairman decal, wheels, engine audio, and a player banner. The F-150 package will only be available from February 20- 28.
“It had to be an F-150, but one that fits within Psyonix’ extreme virtual world pairing soccer and mayhem,” Ehab Kaoud, chief designer at Ford trucks, said. “F-150 is already the most popular truck in the real world, and this F-150 Rocket League Edition is poised to be the most popular truck in the gaming world, too. It’s Built Ford Tough meets gaming.”
The F-150 being added to Rocket League is the latest in Ford’s expansion into the video game realm. Ford recently teamed with Forza, and actor Bryan Cranston will shoot a commercial to promote Ford that is aimed at gamers.
This month, Ford will be the presenting sponsor of the Rocket League Championship Series Winter Majors. Additionally, the Ford + Rocket League Freestyle Invitational will allow players to vie for a real-life 2021 F-150 while showing off their in-game skills.
“As opportunities in gaming continue to grow, we’re really looking at this as its own marketing channel,” Scott Denby, strategy manager of Ford brand content and alliances, said. “It’s the same way you would look at social media or TV and film integration. We’re identifying authentic ways to be involved in gaming and to do it in a meaningful way. We want to make sure we’re adding to the player communities’ experience.”