Timberland launches metaverse experience with Fortnite
Timberland has introduced a new metaverse experience with online video game Fortnite, created in partnership with Epic Games’ Unreal Engine and ConceptKicks.
Centered on Timberland’s CONSTRUCT: 10061 program, the experience invites players and footwear aficionados to discover the footwear brand's design and creation process through an immersive playable experience in Fortnite.
The virtual space houses Timberland's Design Lab and Maker Space, a re-creation of the brand’s real-world innovation lab, offering a rare glimpse into its footwear innovation and design process.
In addition, players will find four Metaboots – including a replica of the iconic yellow boot, plus three original boots inspired by custom outdoor biomes created as part of the project.
A custom Fortnite island featuring Arctic, Desert and Forest biomes allows players to take on challenges and obstacles on Timberland's Parkour Trails to unlock special effects.
Drieke Leenknegt, Chief Marketing Officer for Timberland said: "Timberland was built on a foundation of footwear innovation; our partnership with Epic Games’ Unreal Engine allows us to explore new dimensions as we envision the future of bootmaking and boot culture.
"We’ve brought the collaboration model into the metaverse by inviting innovators such as Daniel Bailey, Zixiong Wei and Aisha Kujk to co-create Metaboots with our own ACE designers, in Fortnite. At the same time, we’re inviting consumers into the world of design innovation within an amazing Fortnite experience. The possibilities to connect in the metaverse are endless."
Raffaella Camera, Head of Brands at Unreal Engine, Epic Games added: "Through the usage of Unreal Engine-based tools and virtual worlds, brand enthusiasts have the chance to engage with Timberland boots in ways not possible today, while designers are able to create and collaborate in completely new ways, with the help of real-time 3D technology. It’s exciting to imagine where we can take this together."
