In a world saturated with high-tech simulations, there’s still a charming appeal to the simplicity and fun of retro arcade games. The Nissan Formula E Team is tapping into this nostalgia with a creative new fan engagement initiative: “Nissan Electric Surf,” a newly launched arcade-style game designed by acclaimed Japanese illustrator Kentaro Yoshida.
It is a thoughtfully crafted piece of content designed to connect with fans of the all-electric racing series in a fresh and interactive way. By choosing a retro aesthetic, Nissan evokes a sense of lighthearted fun while subtly underscoring the cutting-edge nature of their Formula E involvement. It’s old-school style and new-age technology come together, with the 8bit look that “people my age” can’t get enough of.
Kentaro Yoshida, known for his bold, whimsical, and often surf-inspired illustrations, brings his unique artistic vision to the game. While details of the gameplay itself weren’t fully outlined in the initial announcement, the title “Nissan Electric Surf” and Yoshida’s style suggest a game that might involve navigating challenges with speed and agility, much like a Formula E car on a tight street circuit, but perhaps with a more stylised, illustrative flair.
The launch of “Nissan Electric Surf” serves primarily as a tool for fan engagement, offering a new way for supporters to interact with the Nissan Formula E brand beyond race weekends. Secondly, it subtly reinforces Nissan’s commitment to electric mobility. By associating their Formula E efforts with a fun, accessible game, they make the concept of electric power more engaging and approachable for a wider audience, important in a sport that is a high-performance showcase for EV technology.
Motorsport marketing is evolving. It’s no longer just about on-track performance, brands need to create a narrative and a community around the team (if a certain TV show taught us anything). “Nissan Electric Surf” is a clever example of how a racing outfit can leverage creativity and a touch of nostalgia to make a lasting impression, all while keeping the core message of electric excitement front and center. Time to see if your virtual driving skills can match Nissan’s on-track racers!
